Last Updated: 19/01/2026
Best Cat Beds: How to Choose the Perfect Bed for Your Cat
Is your cat pinching the dog's bed or sleeping on your clean laundry? Our expert vet guide helps you choose the right size and style of cat bed - from calming bolster beds to elevated options - to ensure your kitty gets the perfect night's sleep.
Author: Dr Michelle Wong BVSc
Reading Time: 10 minutes - short read
Are you tired of finding cat hair on your freshly laundered clothes? Or perhaps your feline friend has "reclaimed" the dog’s bed, leaving poor Buster on the floor. Choosing the best cat bed for your indoor cat isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about providing a sense of security and supporting their physical health.
Our comprehensive guide is here to help you choose the best bed for your cat.
Why is choosing the right cat bed important?
Choosing the right cat bed is vital because it directly impacts your cat’s physical health and psychological well-being. Unlike humans, cats spend up to 16 hours a day sleeping, and a dedicated bed provides a critical "safe zone" that reduces stress and cortisol levels by giving them a sense of territory and security.
Beyond comfort, the correct bed offers essential joint support and insulation. By matching a bed to your cat's age, temperament, physical needs and specific "sleep style", you ensure they get the restorative rest they need.
How to choose the best cat bed
When choosing the perfect bed for your feline friend, focus on these four essential factors to ensure it provides both comfort and long-term value:
- Size and Sleeping Style: Measure your cat from nose to tail-base and add 5–10cm to ensure they have room to move. Observe if your cat is a "curler" (who prefers round, nest-like beds) or a "stretcher" (who needs a flat, rectangular mattress or mat).
- Privacy and Security: Consider your cat’s temperament; anxious or shy cats usually feel safest in hooded "hideaway" or igloo-style beds, while confident cats often prefer open bolster beds or elevated window perches that allow them to survey their surroundings.
- Ease of Cleaning: Since cats are meticulous about hygiene, prioritise beds with removable, machine-washable covers and water-resistant bases. This makes it much easier to manage fur buildup, dander, and the occasional "accident."
- Age and Physical Needs: Younger, active cats may enjoy multi-level scratcher beds, but senior cats or those with arthritis require orthopedic memory foam for joint support and low-profile entries that don't require them to jump or climb.
How We Review Our Products
Our Vet team use their health and husbandry knowledge, along with their own personal and clinical experiences to evaluate each product and provide detailed, informative reviews, free of any commercial bias. We then collate this information into our 'best of' recommendations.
Top Recommended Cat Beds for Every Personality in Australia [Vet Reviewed]
Hideaway & Igloo Beds (Best for Anxious Cats)
Does your cat run under the bed when the doorbell rings? Cat cave beds and igloo beds provide a "safe zone" with 360-degree coverage.
- Why they work: The hooded design traps heat and provides a visual barrier from the rest of the house.
M Pets Woody Cozy Cat House
Pros
- Natural wood finish and minimalist design make it look like a piece of high-end furniture rather than a traditional pet bed.
- Unlike felt or fabric-only houses, the wooden frame prevents the structure from sagging or collapsing over time.
- With a width of nearly 65cm, it is spacious enough for large breeds (like Maine Coons) or for two smaller cats to snuggle together.
- It comes with a removable, hand-washable cushion, making it easier to keep the sleeping area hygienic and free of hair.
- The "cave" design reduces pet anxiety by providing a 360-degree sense of enclosure with a single clear exit/entrance.
Cons
- Unlike "pop-up" fabric houses, this model requires manual assembly of the wooden components.
- Heavier and less convenient to move from room to room compared to lightweight foam or nylon alternatives.
- While the cushion is removable, the manufacturer typically recommends hand-washing rather than machine-washing to preserve the fabric's integrity.
The M-Pets Woody Cozy Cat House is an enclosed retreat featuring a durable wooden structure and a plush internal cushion for ultimate comfort. Its contemporary, "Scandi-style" aesthetic allows it to blend seamlessly into modern living spaces while offering a 64cm x 49.5cm interior that accommodates cats of all sizes. The design focuses on providing a secure, warm environment that satisfies a cat's natural instinct to hide and observe from a safe distance.
What our customers say: "I was very sceptical when I ordered this hoping it would be big enough for my cat and if she would like it, well she LOVES IT!!!!! As soon as I put it together she went straight in and sleeps in it everyday. Highly recommend."
Catsentials Boucle Cat Cave
Pros
- The nubby texture of the boucle is naturally appealing to cats for kneading and provides a high-end, "decorator" look for your home.
- Includes a separate internal mat that can be pulled out for easier spot cleaning or used as a standalone resting pad.
- The fabric construction is light enough to move easily around the house and can often be gently collapsed for storage.
Cons
- While boucle is stylish, determined "scratcher" cats may pull at the looped threads, which can lead to visible fraying over time.
- Unlike wooden or wire-framed houses, the soft fabric walls may sag slightly if a heavier cat decides to jump or sit on top of the dome.
- Larger cat breeds or overweight cats may find the entrance a bit tight, making it better suited for small to medium-sized felines.
The Catsentials Boucle Cat Cave is a semi-structured dome designed to provide a secure and private sanctuary for cats to rest and observe their surroundings. It features a neutral grey boucle exterior that complements contemporary interiors and includes a removable inner cushion for added softness. This cave-style bed is particularly effective at trapping body heat, making it an ideal retreat for naps during cooler months.
Calming Bolster Beds (Best for Snugglers)
If your cat loves to rest their chin on your arm, they need a bolster bed. These feature raised, cushioned rims.
- Why they work: The raised edges provide head and neck support while creating a "nestling" effect that reduces cortisol (stress) levels.
Product Name
Pros
- Raised edges create a sense of security and "protection," which helps lower stress levels and calm pets during storms or periods of separation.
- Generous padding provides a soft landing for joints, making it a comfortable option for senior pets or those with mild aches.
- Machine washable, allowing for easy removal of hair, odours, and dirt.
- The long-pile faux fur effectively traps a pet's body heat, keeping them warm and cosy during cooler months.
- Grippy, water-resistant bottom that prevents the bed from sliding across tiled or hardwood floors when your pet hops in.
- Excellent value for money.
- Available in grey, and 3 different sizes.
Cons
- Over time and after multiple washes, the faux fur can become matted or lose its original plush loft if not dried and fluffed correctly.
- These beds may require significant manual "fluffing" and up to 48 hours to reach their full, advertised height, after delivery
The Paws for Life Cosy Calming Bed is a plush, round "donut" bed specifically engineered to soothe anxious cats and dogs by mimicking the feeling of snuggling against a mother's fur. Its deep crevices and raised rim allow pets to burrow down or rest their heads, providing both physical support and psychological security. The neutral tan colour and soft shag texture make it a functional yet cosy addition to any room in the house.
What our customers say: "My cat likes to stretch out to sleep - it is the perfect size. He jumped in as soon as it came out of the box - he loves it!"
Perches & Hammocks (Best for Curious Cats)
Vertical space is vital for feline enrichment.
- Window beds: allows your cat to monitor their territory from a height as well as providing mental stimulation of "Cat TV" (watching birds, cars and outdoor activities).
- Wall or Ceiling Mounted Perches: These are sturdy shelves, often covered in carpet or sisal, that attach directly to your wall studs. They are perfect for multi-pet households, as they allow a cat to move across a room without ever touching the floor.
- Freestanding Hammocks: Often featuring a wooden or metal frame with a suspended fabric "sling," these beds contour to your cat's body shape. They are excellent for airflow, keeping cats cool in the summer while providing a weightless sensation that many cats find soothing.
Why these styles work:
- Safety: Elevated spots provide a "high ground" where cats feel untouchable by dogs or toddlers.
- Space Optimization: Hammocks and wall perches are excellent for small apartments, as they utilise vertical space instead of taking up floor real estate.
- Temperature Control: Hammocks allow air to circulate underneath the cat, preventing overheating.
M Pets Horizon Cat Window Perch
Pros
- Exceptionally sturdy, suitable for cats up to 10kg, making it one of the more reliable options for larger cats.
- The perch uses a heavy-duty suction cup system that can be installed or moved in minutes without drilling holes into your walls or window frames.
- Soft fabric cover is removable and machine washable.
Cons
- The suction cups require a perfectly clean, non-porous glass surface to maintain a safe grip; any dirt or oil on the window can cause the perch to slip.
- Once installed, the frame and support wires typically prevent you from fully closing blinds or curtains on that specific window.
- In extreme cold or heat, the suction cups can lose some of their elasticity and grip, requiring regular checks to ensure they remain securely attached.
The M-Pets Horizon Cat Window Perch is a secure, hanging hammock that provides your cat with a 360-degree view for bird-watching and sunbathing. It features a durable frame (often reinforced with steel wire) and a soft, machine-washable cover that offers a cosy resting surface. With a high weight capacity - supporting up to 10kg, it is robust enough for large cats.
What our customers say: "I'm ordering a second because I've had such great success with my first. This is different to other brands because it has suction cups which tighten it to the wall. You have to clean the surface and the suction cup surface with alcohol, and I would re do this every 2 months or so because I have a heavier girl. She can jump on it, she plays on it, serious kitten activity and it won't budge. I would never let my cat on another window perch."
Paws for Life Large Twill Cat Hammock
Pros
- Exceptionally sturdy, suitable for cats up to 10kg, making it one of the more reliable options for larger cats.
- The perch uses a heavy-duty suction cup system that can be installed or moved in minutes without drilling holes into your walls or window frames.
- Soft fabric cover is removable and machine washable.
Cons
- The suction cups require a perfectly clean, non-porous glass surface to maintain a safe grip; any dirt or oil on the window can cause the perch to slip.
- Once installed, the frame and support wires typically prevent you from fully closing blinds or curtains on that specific window.
- In extreme cold or heat, the suction cups can lose some of their elasticity and grip, requiring regular checks to ensure they remain securely attached.
The M-Pets Horizon Cat Window Perch is a secure, hanging hammock that provides your cat with a 360-degree view for bird-watching and sunbathing. It features a durable frame (often reinforced with steel wire) and a soft, machine-washable cover that offers a cosy resting surface. With a high weight capacity - supporting up to 10kg, it is robust enough for large cats.
What our customers say: "I'm ordering a second because I've had such great success with my first. This is different to other brands because it has suction cups which tighten it to the wall. You have to clean the surface and the suction cup surface with alcohol, and I would re do this every 2 months or so because I have a heavier girl. She can jump on it, she plays on it, serious kitten activity and it won't budge. I would never let my cat on another window perch."
Heated & Orthopaedic Cat Beds (Best for Senior Cats)
Heated cat beds or thermal mats use electricity or "self-heating" reflective technology to keep joints warm. For cats with arthritis, these warm beds can soothe and relax their aching bodies, making sure they get a restful sleep. Combine this with a joint supplement for extra support.
For more tips on keeping your elderly pet comfortable on cold nights, check out our articles on Winter Pet Care.
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Pros
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Plush Cushions & Mat Beds (Best for Cats Who Love to Stretch)
Why They Work: Unlike bolstered or hooded beds, cat mattress beds offer an unrestricted surface area. This allows for maximum airflow and the freedom for your cat to change positions throughout the night without hitting a "wall."
Orthopedic Support: Many premium mat beds are made with orthopedic memory foam. This is the best option for supporting a cat's spine and pressure points, making it a top recommendation for aging cats or those recovering from surgery.
Versatility: Mats are highly portable and fit perfectly on couches, inside travel crates, or atop existing cat furniture to add an extra layer of comfort.
When using mats, ensure they have a non-slip base. This prevents the bed from sliding when your cat "pounces" onto it, which is a common safety concern for pet owners searching for floor-based bedding.
KONG Cat Playspaces Cloud Catnip Plush Playmat
Pros
- Dual 'warm' and 'cool' sides makes it useful year-round.
- Built-in "crinkle" sound and premium catnip infusion caters to both a cat’s hunting instincts and their need for relaxation.
- Highly portable
- Machine washable
- Can serve as a designated "safe spot" on top of human furniture (like sofas or beds) to protect surfaces from cat hair and scratching.
Cons
- Crinkle material can be distracting for owners at night.
- Since the catnip is built into the mat, the scent will naturally diminish over time and after washing, requiring the use of external catnip sprays to "recharge" it.
- While the stitching is solid, the satin side and inner crinkle film can be damaged if you have a cat that likes to aggressively chew or "shred" fabric toys.
The KONG Cloud Playmat is a double-sided lounging mat that features a cosy, high-pile plush side for warmth and a smooth, quilted satin side for cooling comfort. Infused with North American premium catnip and layered with internal crinkle material, it engages a cat's senses of smell, touch, and sound. Its lightweight, flexible design allows it to be easily rolled up for storage or moved to your cat's favourite sunny patch on the floor.
What our customers say: "My cat uses this more than his other beds. He loves the crinkle sound and will become very playful when he's on this mat. He will play with his other toys while on the mat and eventually starts using the mat as a toy as well, moving it around the lounge room. He will choose to sit on it over the lounge room rug. Such a good quality and useful product for the price! I'm even going to gift my parent's cat with one as well."
What to Look for in a Cat Bed
Removable and Washable Covers
Prioritise beds that are machine washable, or have removable covers. This is essential for maintaining a hygienic sleeping environment and extending the life of the bed.
Supportive Filling and Material
Look for high-quality fillings like orthopaedic memory foam for senior support or high-loft poly-fill for deep snuggling. Ensure the outer fabric is durable enough to withstand occasional kneading and scratching.
Non-Slip Base
A high-quality bed should feature a rubberised or "grippy" non-slip base to prevent it from sliding across floorboards or tiles. This provides security for your cat when they are jumping in or out, preventing potential injuries or "scares."
Thermal Properties
Consider the climate and your cat's age; self-warming thermal layers are excellent for outdoor-access cats or seniors with thin coats. Conversely, breathable cotton or linen fabrics are better for keeping cats cool in warmer Australian summers.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Cat Bed
A washable cat bed is a must for hygiene. Look for beds with:
- Removable, zippable covers.
- Machine-washable inserts.
- Odour-resistant fabrics.
- Pro Tip: Keep a "spare cover" on hand so your cat doesn't lose their spot on laundry day.
3 Tips to Get Your Cat to Use a New Bed
- Scent Association: Place a piece of your worn clothing (like a T-shirt) in the bed. Your scent makes the new object feel safe.
- Location is Everything: Place the bed in a warm, quiet spot where your cat already likes to hang out - preferably off the floor.
- Feliway: Use a calming pheromone spray on the new bed, or a plug in diffuser nearby, to signal that it is a safe place to rest.
FAQs
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Mon 19 Jan 2026
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Michelle Wong BVSc
Veterinarian
Dr Michelle graduated from the University of Queensland in 2011 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and has worked in small animal practices around South East Queensland. As an owner of three cats, it is not surprising that Dr Michelle holds special interests in feline behaviour and medicine, as well as dermatology and preventative health care. Her favourite part of being a vet is witnessing the special bond between pets and their owners and helping pets live a happy and healthy life.
