Do Cats Like Cat Beds? (All The Answers)

No doubt, cats are sleep lovers. But as a cat owner, it is our responsibility to make sure that our feline friend gets fabulous sleep. If you are deciding to buy a cat bed, then chances are you are seeing all the cat bed options available.  So, do cats like cat beds?

Yes, cats do like cat beds.  Cat beds provide a comfortable sleeping experience, a secure sleeping environment cats can call their own, and a therapeutic setting for their body.  A good strategy is to have more than one cat bed positioned in your house where your cat will want to sleep.

Understanding their cat’s preferences is what many cat owners find perplexing! I too had the same confusion until I found my own feline a cat bed to sleep in.  Actually, I bought two cat beds for my Domestic Shorthair Tabby, Charlotte.

My cat likes to sleep in different places.  At night, she likes to sleep right under me under my bed.  During the daytime, she’ll take cat naps in the two cat beds I have for her, as well as on the floor if the sun is hitting it, or in a cardboard box that I like to stick catnip in.    As I type this, she is sleeping at my feet under my desk because sometimes she wants to just be near me when she sleeps.

I try to be a good cat owner and provide my cat with a bunch of different places to sleep which is why I like having the cat beds that I bought for her.  Cat beds are important for a cat so read on to learn more!

I am going to talk about and recommend some products in this article that pertain to cat beds and providing your cat a more enriching life.  These are Amazon affiliate links, so I receive a commission from them.  That being said, these are my honest recommendations, so if you are interested, feel free to click below!

1. The cat bed on Amazon I recommend:  Click Here To See Great Cat Bed On Amazon (Affiliate Link)
2. The Cat Condo/Cat Tree on Amazon that I recommend:  Click Here To See Fantastic Cat Tree On Amazon (Affiliate Link)
3. The Scratching Post/Cat Hammock on Amazon that I recommend:  Click Here To See Awesome Cat Hammock on Amazon (Affiliate Link)

Are Cats Beds Good For Cats?

Yes, cat beds are good for cats.  A cat bed is a bed explicitly designed to provide a comfortable sleeping space to your cat. They are typically made up of soft and warm material to keep your feline friend cozy while sleeping.

Cat beds come in variable shapes, designs, colors, and materials. You can choose one according to your cat’s preferences.

Do Cats Like Pillows?

Yes, cats like pillows. Cats are fond of sleeping on soft objects like your pillow, couch, a pile of clothes, or any other similar cozy item. Cats may opt to sleep on a pillow rather than a cat bed since pillows are soft and comfortable. 

Is It Necessary To Get My Cat A Bed?

Yes, it is necessary to get your cat a cat bed.  Cats sleep a lot during the day and the truth is a cat bed gives your cat a secure place to sleep.  A cat bed might give your cat the following:

• A secure place for your cat to sleep
• A warm place for your cat to sleep
• A routine place for your cat to sleep

A cat bed might also be beneficial if your cat sleeps in places that you don’t want her sleeping.  Potentially the cat bed will entice her to sleep where you place the cat bed.

One thing I did to make sure that my cat knew the cat bed was for her, was to spray some catnip spray on the cat bed.  If you are going to use catnip spray, my advice is to spray more than you think you need to.  It took quite a few sprays for my cat to really notice.

Do Cats Actually Like Cat Beds?

Yes, cats actually like cat beds.  Most cats will appreciate the availability of a soft cat bed.  Some cats prefer cat beds that provide some cover, such as a container with a hole that has a cushion inside for a cat to sleep.  

Your cat’s daily routine is probably to sleep, eat, sleep, play, and sleep…zzz. It is normal for cats to sleep most of the time. Most cats sleep at least 15 hours a day. Kittens can even sleep 20 hours a day.

My cat Charlotte loves to play and loves to sleep.  She will often play a little, watch some activity outside from one of her favorite windowsills, then go somewhere for a cat nap. When I see her sleeping in a cat bed, she looks really content.

If you end up getting your cat a cat bed or two you should feel good about providing for your cat’s needs.  It feels good to see Charlotte sleeping in the cat beds I have bought for her, similar to seeing her play with toys that I’ve bought for her. When a cat is in a cat bed, it really looks like she has found her home.

Why Do Cats Sleep On Furniture?

Cats sleep on furniture because it is comfortable.  If your cat spends time on your furniture, provide more places for your cat to sleep instead, such as a cat bed.  Cats will sleep on furniture because they need good places to rest their heads. 

Do Cats Scratch Sofas?

Yes, cats will scratch some sofas. Sofas or couches are problematic places for a cat to spend time since they can potentially scratch or puncture the sofa with their claws.  Keep scratching posts near sofas so your cat will scratch them instead. 

There is more about scratching couches, specifically faux leather, and the best alternative materials.

Are Cat Beds Necessary?

Yes, cat beds are necessary if you want to ensure that your cat has at least one place to sleep that is their own.  Cat beds provide cats a comfortable and secure place to sleep.  Cats that have cat beds know they can go to there and take a nap in peace. 

What are cat beds made of?

Cat beds can be made of both natural materials or synthetic materials.  It is best to choose a cat bed made of natural materials that are less smelly and more breathable, such as wool and cotton.  Ensure your cat’s bed is made of materials that they like to lay on. 

Cats can be very picky when it comes to choosing their next meal and a sleeping spot. They often do not like artificial odors that come from newly manufactured things. 

As a tip to help your cat know that the new cat bed is for him or her, you can use a catnip spray and spray the bed a bunch of times.  Your cat will end up smelling this and know that this bed is safe for them.

Are Cat Beds Washable?

Cat beds will always be washable because manufacturer’s know that this is important.  Cat owners should check the manufacturer’s recommendations for washing the cat bed which should be on the tag.  Cats like to keep themselves clean so it will be important to also keep the cat bed clean. 

If you own a cat, washing a cat bed should be a task that you should expect to do.  I recommend doing this monthly if your cat uses the cat bed often, but quarterly (every 3 months) if your cat uses it less often. 

Is it worth getting a cat bed?

Yes, it is worth getting a cat bed since you can get something high-quality between $30 to $40.  For the amount of money you will spend, a cat bed will provide a safe sleeping spot that your cat will adore.  Additionally, a good cat bed will likely last you at least a few years. 

Cats have a habit of scratching things, especially when these things feel soft and smooth to their paws. If you are planning to buy your cat a cat bed, then make sure the material is durable and can tolerate scratches. 

To channel your cats scratching behavior in the right place, and even give your cat another place to sleep, it makes a lot of sense to have a cat condo/cat tree, which usually have scratching posts on them.  My cat loves our cat tree and sleeps on it often.  Coincidentally, she also uses the scratch posts on the cat tree often. 

What Should I Look For In A Cat Bed?

When you go to purchase a cat bed you should keep in mind the sleeping surface, material, and if your feline will have a comfortable sleeping experience.  You will want to know if your cat prefers to sleep in an open or closed bed or on a cat hammock or cat tree.  

Where Do Cats Sleep?

Cats like sleeping in different places, including on floors; however, they often like the soft comfort that a cat bed can give them. Cats will sleep in beds made specifically for them, on human beds, or even on a hamper filled with clothes.  Cats will also sleep on cat hammocks, cat trees, and cat condos. 

Some cats like to walk up and scratch their claws on a scratch pad before sleeping.  If this is the case, a cat tree may be the best option for your cat. 

Cats love sleeping in cozy places but if you do not allow them to sit on your bed or furniture, then from where would they get the comfort?  The topmost benefit these cat beds give is the comfort and coziness.

Where Do Cats Like To Sleep?

From a cat’s point of view they like to sleep in places that give them the security they desire for a place to take a snooze.  Sometimes, cat will choose the softest place to take a nap.  Cats like to sleep anywhere they feel safe and comfortable, such as the sofa, a bed, or even the floor. 

Where Should A Cat Sleep At Night?

A cat should sleep at night in a secure location that their sleep will not be disturbed. Ideally, this would be a soft spot that your cat will like to return to day after day.  Most cats are nocturnal, so even if they are sleeping in their spot at night, they will likely get up during the night and prowl. 

As a human, you as a cat owner can sit and sleep wherever you want (I think the same is the case with your cat as well). But we often disturb our cat’s sleep when we need something they might be sleeping on – for me that is usually a jacket or the blue jeans I may have left on my bedroom floor.  Surprisingly, this has actually happened to me more than once.

What Room Should A Cat Sleep In?

The living room is a good central location for your cat to sleep.  Sleeping in a living room allows your cat to be in a prime location within the home so that they can keep an eye on things.  Another good room for a cat to sleep in is the master bedroom so that they will be near you at night. 

Are Cat Beds Good For Cats?

Yes, cat beds are good for cats. Cat beds are designed by keeping in mind the body structure and physical needs of cats. These beds have a therapeutic nature to them making them good for cats. Cat beds also provide safe places for your cat to hang out and feel comfortable. 

Cat beds will also usually keep your cat warm on a cold night.  Additionally, some beds are built specifically for senior cats or special needs cats.  

Why Does My Cat Sleep On The Floor?

Sometimes cats sleep on the floor even when they have a bed because they like the harder feel of the floor.  Additionally, cats that sleep on the floor may like the fact that they can react quickly from the floor and run off to safety if they are startled.  Sometimes cats like to sleep on the floor because it feels good to them. 

Unfortunately, cats do not speak human languages so they can’t just tell us which cat beds they might enjoy sleeping in. You may have to try different beds to find which type of cat bed suits your cat’s taste. Hopefully, you can observe where your cat likes to sleep in the house and pick a bed that meets those same characteristics, but that can be challenging for a cat owner.

Why Does My Cat Sleep Everywhere?

Cats love to have different places to sleep.  Cats will find a good place to sleep everywhere because they are highly adaptable.  Some interesting places that cats like to sleep are on desks, bookcases, and on top of cabinets.  Sometimes cats choose to sleep in high locations, allowing a cat to have a great view. 

Some people may feel a cat bed is useless if their cat does not stick to a single place to sleep and instead chooses to sleep wherever she wants. Most cats have this nature. My cat Charlotte does this.  It is hard to predict their behavior. Cats will do whatever they will feel like doing.

If your cat has the same nature, then you may find investing in a cat bed a poor use of your money.  Personally, I like providing a lot of places for my cat to get her sleep.

What Kind of Cat Bed Should I Get?

Cat owners should be good observers in order to determine what kind of cat bed to get.  Watch your cat closely and figure out if your cat enjoys sleeping in open or enclosed places, hard or soft surfaces, or low or high locations. 

Understanding where your cat sleeps often will help you choose between an open and soft cat bed for the floor or a cat tree.  

Cats have an unpredictable nature. You may find your cat sleeping on a window ledge, in the corner of a couch, beside your head on your bed, or any other place that only she knows the exact reason she likes it.

Choosing A Cat Bed

If you live in a hot climate, then the preferable material for your cat should be a natural fabric that is breathable yet soft. It should be open so that your cat does not get too overheated. On the contrary, if you live in a cold environment, then a closed and heated bed is what your cat may prefer the most.

This super cat bed on Amazon (Affiliate link) is what many people prefer for their cats. It has an open roof for cats to sit when they need air and a closed room-like bed to protect them from cold air in winters.  It is kind of nice that this bed covers both bases when it comes to open-air beds and beds that are more like a cubby.

Your cat will prefer a bed in which she can sleep freely in different poses. So, it is better to measure the size of your cat before making a purchase. Then choose the bed in which your cat will be comfortable.  The last thing you want to do is buy a small cat bed when you own a large cat.

Do Cats Prefer Open or Closed Beds?

Cat owners must observe where their cats like to sleep to know if they like open or closed beds.  If your cat is not fond of sleeping in closed spaces, then chances are it will not like a bed that has a closed cubby-like appearance. Some cats like enclosed spaces and a cubby-type bed will likely make that cat feel secure.

Do Cats Like Hard Beds?

Many cats love hard beds.  Cats that love hard beds like how the hard surface feels against their soft bodies.  Some cats enjoy both hard and soft beds.  If this is the case a cat owner may want to have both a hard and soft cat bed in the home for their cat to sleep in. 

Many new cat owners become confused about the preference of their cat. They see their cats enjoy laying on both hard and soft surfaces. But what they do not know is that cats like different textures at different times and for different purposes.

Sometimes cats just like laying on a hard surface.  My cat will often jump on my desk when I am working and lay down.  I know she just wants to be near me, and she isn’t complaining about the hard surface.  On the contrary, sometimes I find her sleeping on the couch or on top of my fleece jacket, which is exceptionally soft.  Different beds will provide different types of surfaces for your cat to sleep on.  So, observing what your cat likes is important.

Do Cats Prefer To Sleep On Hard Surfaces?

Some cats like a hard surface to lay on. It can feel good to stretch out on a hard surface from time to time.  Observe your cat to determine if they prefer hard or soft surfaces and determine which type of cat bed to get your cat based on your observations. 

However, sometimes cats like chewing objects made up of hard material or they may scratch up a harder surface. This is something you need to watch for if your cat likes laying on desks, shelves, or other hard surfaces.

My advice is to place scratching posts nearby.  Scratching posts are an excellent investment because your cat will probably scratch the scratching post when they feel like scratching something.

I have a couple scratching post / cat hammocks that I got from Amazon, which have 2 scratching posts on them and a place for my cat to sleep.  My cat Charlotte uses the scratching posts all the time and occasionally sleeps in the Hammock too – it took her a good month to figure out what the hammock was for though.

This is an Amazon affiliate link to the scratching post/cat hammock I use:  Click Here To See Awesome Cat Hammock on Amazon

Do Cats Like Soft Beds?

Many cats do like soft beds.  Cats may feel like they can relax more on soft surfaces.  Cats will often sleep on beds, sofas, clothes, and other soft surfaces.  If cats enjoy sleeping on soft surfaces they usually enjoy sleeping in soft beds also. 

You may often find your cat sitting on dirty or clean laundry, your couch, bed, or any other soft surface.

Maybe it reminds them of a hug from their owner.  They also like your smell coming from these objects. So, if you are confused about which bed to choose then first observe your cat’s needs according to your cat’s behavior.

Why Do Cats Knead?

I will often see my cat kneading a soft bed prior to laying down on it.  I read that a cat kneading is connected to kittens wanting a mother cat’s milk.  So, older cats must be reminded of this when they find a soft bed they like that makes them feel safe and so they knead. 

Where Should You Put a Cat Bed?

You should put a cat bed in the following places:

• Your cat’s favorite sleeping spot
• Quiet places in the house
• High places where your cat can have a great view

Some cat parents complain that their cats do not sleep in cat beds even if they have bought them according to their cat’s preferences. One of the reasons your cat may not sleep in her bed is if you have put it in the wrong place.

If you do not know where you should put your cat’s bed, consider the below criteria.

Cat’s Favorite Place To Sleep

Look for the places your cat likes to take a nap in. Is it at your bed’s foot or a corner of your room? Cats are very choosy in nature. Once they make their mind to sleep on specific spots in your house then they will often sleep there no matter how hard you try to change the location.

So, there may be one or more preferred places for the cat bed. These would be where your cat spends most of her time sleeping.

Do Cats Like To Sleep In Quiet Places?

Yes, cats like to sleep in quiet places because it allows them to let their guard down and get a nap.  Cats don’t like loud noises so quiet places allow them to get some rest without all the sensory overload that loud noises bring.  

Cats are very good at using their large and perky ears. They can hear sounds of low and very high frequencies. We often see their ears moving in different directions even when they are sleeping. This is because their sense of hearing is very advanced.

So, if your house often stays crowded with people or you like to play music, then it is better to place the cat bed in a place that is far from the noisy spot. Your bedroom could be the right pick if you are searching for a quiet place. This way, your cat will enjoy a healthy and sound sleep for a longer time.  There will likely be less disturbances for your cat this way.

Why Do Cats Like To Sleep In High Places?

Cats often like sleeping in places from where they can keep an eye on their cat owners and the entire room. They feel comfortable and secure while sitting in a high place. This is one reason you may find your cat sleeping on your couch’s arm, chair, window ledge, etc.  This is also one of the benefits of cat shelves or a cat tree.

This is the cat condo / cat tree on Amazon (affiliate link) that I recommend: Click Here To See Fantastic Cat Tree On Amazon.

It may be better to place a cat bed in a higher place like a chair etc. so that your cat becomes comfortable with her cat bed. Once she gets used to her bed, you can place the bed in different spots around the house and your cat will likely still use it.

I have been working from home a lot lately, so I’ve been putting a cat bed near me where I work in my house.  My cat likes to be near me pretty much all the time, and it helps to keep her off the desk while I’m working.

Why Do Cats Sleep In A Ball?

Cats sleep in a ball because it feels good, keeps them warm, and provides protection in case of any danger.  Sleeping in a ball allows a cat to put their body in a position that keeps them comfortable while minimizing risk of injury in case another animals comes along and disturbs them. 

Why Do Cats Sleep In Boxes?

Cats sleep in boxes because boxes provide small secure areas that make a cat feel safe.  Cats feel secure in boxes because the walls of a box surrounds them.  Cats often feel content when they lay in a box that fits them well. 

Why Do Cats Sleep In The Sun?

Cats sleep in the sun because it makes them feel warm.  Cats love feeling warm in the sunlight.  Cat owners should ensure that cats sleeping in the sun have water readily available to them so they do not get dehydrated. 

Why Do Cats Sleep In Weird Places?

Cats sleep in weird places because they evaluate sleeping spots different than humans.  To cats, sleeping in a box or on top of the cabinets in the kitchen is not weird.  These places provide cats contentment and safety for sleeping. 

Why Do Cats Sleep In Different Places?

Cats sleep in different places because they are highly adaptable and have different preferences.  For example, a cat can enjoy sleeping on different surfaces, such as the floor, bed, cat tree, and sofa.  Cats often choose places to sleep that make them feel secure and comfortable. 

Do Cat Beds Keep Cats Warm?

Cat Beds that have soft materials probably keep cats warm.  Some cat beds are electronic and heated allowing cat owners to provide their cat a warm bed.  Some cat beds do not keep cats that warm and instead the cat’s body heat keeps it warmer while in the bed. 

Why Don’t Cats Use Cat Beds?

Cats may not like their beds and choose not to use them.  Cats can also have many spots they enjoy sleeping.  One way to get a cat to notice a cat bed more is to spray the cat bed with catnip spray.  Your cat will notice this bed more and likely give it another try. 

Why Don’t Cats Like Cat Beds?

Sometimes cats don’t like cat beds because their owner chose the wrong kind of bed.  It is important for cat owners to observe where their cat enjoys sleeping so that they can buy a bed for their cat based on their sleeping preferences.  

Do Cats Like New Beds?

Cats are curious creatures and will likely check out a new cat bed.  However, cats may not like new cat beds because they do not smell like them.  One way to get a cat to notice a new cat bed more is to spray it with catnip spray.  Cats like this smell and will be attracted to it. 

Do Cats Want Their Own Bed?

If you have more than one cat then your cats may want their own bed.  If you only have one cat your cat may not care if it has their own bed.  Cats will often sleep in places that make them secure and comfortable and cat beds can also provide this for them. 

Do Cats Like Comfortable Beds?

Some cats like comfortable beds because they are soft and warm.  Other cats enjoy hard surfaces because they enjoy the feeling of laying on something hard.  Occasionally, cats will find both hard and soft beds comfortable. 

Conclusion

Most cats love sleeping on cat beds, although they may still choose to sleep everywhere when cat beds are still available to them.  Beds provide nice places for cats to sleep and are another way that cat owners can choose to enrich their cat’s lives.

Cats love sleeping, so chances are your cat will get used to her bed if you use the right tactics. As a cat parent, you likely want to give your cat the best lifestyle possible, and a cat bed generally fits into those plans.

We’ve talked a lot about cat beds, so make sure you observe where your cat likes to sleep so you can hopefully predict which cat bed will be right for your cat!

If you enjoyed this article, please check out a few more:

• 11 Reasons Why Cats Are Smarter Than Dogs:  Click Here To Read Article.
• 9 Reasons Indoor Cats Are Better:  Click Here To Read Article.
• 13 Big House Cat Breeds:  Click Here To Read Article.