As we know, cats sleep a lot. They love to sleep anywhere: in the garden, on the sofa, even in your bed! But one place that cats really love and appreciate is their own cosy bed. A cat needs their own bed to feel happy, comfortable, have their own space and to get a good quality night’s sleep, all of which are important for their well being.

Do you have a cat? Are you looking for a present for a cat-loving friend? Or perhaps you’re thinking of owning a cat and you’re looking for the perfect bed for your purry pet? We’ve got you covered: This ultimate guide to cat beds will introduce you to everything you need to know so that you can pick the best bed for your furry friend. We’ve even included a ranking of our favourite cat beds on the market. When your cat sleeps well, they’re more relaxed and happier, so you’ll get to know your cat and understand their behaviour very well. We’ve also answered the most frequently asked questions about owning cats. We talk about their sleeping routines, habits and do’s and don’t when it comes to owning a cat if you have allergies.

After reading this guide, we’re confident that you’ll be fully equipped to find the most fabulous bed for your feline friend. Enjoy!

First things first:

  • Cats need a quiet place to sleep. Beds are the perfect place for them to sleep, because the hair that they shed will stay there, and it’s less likely to be spread throughout your house. However, something you need to remember is to put your bed where your cat regularly goes, so that they will actually visit the bed and sleep in it.
  • You’ll find beds suitable to all types of cats: from those who like to spend time by themselves and who love sleeping in corners, to those who love to be active, run around and be surrounded by people.
  • It’s completely normal for you to want your cat wants to sleep outdoors, and you have beds specifically designed for this. If you want your cat with your in your bed, you should still designated a specific spot for them.

Ranking: The best cat beds in the UK

We’ve had a look at the cat beds on the market, analysed prices and customer reviews, and come up with this comprehensive list of the best in the UK. You can see each of our favourite cat beds this selection below, alongside a little description of each product. We’re certain that by the end of this ranking and this guide, you will have chosen the perfect cat bed for you and your pet!

No. 1: VERTAST Igloo Hideout Cave Cat Bed (40cm x 35cm x 25cm)

First up we have this adorable igloo bed, which is Amazon’s Choice for cat beds. Igloos are perfect for those kittys who love to be hidden and who like enclosed spaces where they can be cosy. This igloo is the perfect size to pop anywhere in your house, as it is only small so it won’t take up much space wherever you put it!

What’s more, the cushion that your cat would lie on can easily be removed and machine washed. This cool cat bed comes in three colours: grey, leopard print and black, with the most popular colour being grey, so you can get a comfy cat igloo to perfectly match your home!

No. 2: Pecute Plush Cat Bed (53cm x 43cm x 18cm)

This fancy feline bed is made of premium quality micro suede exterior and a corn corduroy interior, stuffed with soft polyester fabric to ensure the softest, comfiest, highest quality cat bed around. The cushion, as with the model above, can be removed and machine washed. The cushion can also be used by itself if your cat just prefers to sleep there – two in one!

Additionally, this bed features soft raised sides, which provides additional support for your cat’s head, neck and back. You can buy this cat bed in a small size, as features here, or a medium size which is 63cm x 53cm x 21cm for if you have a larger cat or your cat simply just loves to stretch themselves out! Finally, Pecute are so certain that your cat will love this bed that they offer 100% of your money back, so you can buy this bed with peace of mind.

No. 3: Trixie Cuddly Bed for Cats (46.8cm x 37.4cm x 5cm)

Another of Amazon’s Choices for cat beds, this cuddly bed makes you want to lie down and curl up just by looking at it! This cute bed is reversible, with one side being fitted with a nylon cover, and the other size with a insulating, soft and warm imitation of lamb’s fur. The latter side is perfect for winter and the nylon side is better for when the weather is warmer.

This style of cat bed is very open, so it’s good for those kittens who like being outside and who like to have a lot of space to stretch out. This is also one of the cheapest cat beds on the market, so if you are on a budget or don’t want to spend too much money on a cat bed in case your cat doesn’t like it, this bed by Trixie is the one for you.

No. 4: Rosewood 40 Winks Tweed/Plush Bed (23cm x 23cm x 15cm)

This tweed bed is definitely for those cats and cat owners who like a bit of luxury! This stylish bed will fit perfectly in any modern home, since it’s tweed and plush, and the neutral grey colour will match every kitchen, living room and bedroom there it! It is also machine washable, so you’ll never have to think twice before throwing it into the washing machine after your cat comes in with muddy paws in the winter.

Hailed as great value for money and amazing quality by customer reviews on Amazon, there’s no reason why this Rosewood 40 Winks cat bed wouldn’t be the perfect one for you and your feline friend. Your cat is guaranteed to sleep their 40 winks with this bed!

No. 5: Rosewood Jumbo Cord / Plush Pet Bed (43cm x 51cm x 15cm)

Last but certainly not least, we have another cat bed by Rosewood. This one is slightly different to the one above since it is larger, so it is suitable for if you have lots of space, or a larger cat. Once again, this is machine washable so there’s no worrying about lots of cat hairs being left in this bed.

This fancy plush bed has over 750 five-star reviews on Amazon, so it is one of the best rated cat beds on the UK market. Guaranteed to suit any home with its padded grey outer and soft luxury plush inner, there is truly nothing else that could make this bed more suitable for your cat. What more could a cat want?

Buying Guide: Everything you need to know about cat beds

Before making your purchase, you should be aware of certain things. A suitable knowledge of cat beds and cat’s behaviour in general is essential so that you choose the most suitable cat bed for you and your pet. In the section below, we discuss those important criteria and answer the most common questions asked by past buyers.

Cats brighten up your lonely days.
(Source: Sergey Labutin: 50577969/

Why does my cat sleep so much?

While these animals are also very fast hunters, cats actually spend most of their time resting. They sleep approximately 70% of the day and you need to be aware that their sleep cycles are very different from ours. Kittens and and elderly cats will sleep even more, so don’t freak out if you see your feline spending a lot of time asleep.

Despite being domestic animals, they still love to play and move around, so much that they easily get tired. For this reason, and because their general health requires it, cats sleep many hours a day.


Cats generally use the same places to rest, which is why they spend a lot of time in their bed.

Why does my cat need their own bed?

Even if you let your cats spend hours on the sofa or on your bed, they need to have their own resting and sleeping area. These animals love to have their own space that has their smell. Each bed on the market is designed to fit the needs of every cat. If your cat tends to be timid and quite, for example, then a covered bed would be good for them.

While these animals do sleep a lot, you have to remember that they also exercise a lot during their playtime. This is why they need a soft surface to rest their body on afterwards. It’s also a good idea to opt for a bed made from materials that are adapted to the weather conditions if you want your cat to sleep outdoors. This is extremely important for the comfort of your cat.

Remember that cats are very tidy animals and need a clean bed.
(Source: Vadim Guzhva: 34916742/

Why is it better for me that my cat has their own bed?

The truth is that your cat having its own bed will offer you many different benefits. For example, they won’t leave their hair everywhere, as it will tend to collect in their bed. This is good for those who are allergic to cats. Additionally, cat beds are easy to wash and easier to wash than our beds, so it’s easy to remove hair from cat beds.

If your cat bed is made of a material which your cat can scratch, or if it has a scratching post attached to it, for example, your cat can play there instead of scratching the sofa, so say goodbye to those not-so-great-looking scratch marks on your furniture! Cats often scratch the place where they sleep, so if you want to minimise all scratched furniture, then it’s best to get multiple cat beds for your feeling friend.


If your cat sleeps with you, remember that it will be less annoying for the both of you during the night if your cat has its own separate place.

Why does my cat like to sleep under their bed?

These felines are hunters, and they need places where they feel safe to rest and that are warm – their own dens. A place that provides them both warmth and safety is very comfortable for them, which is why you will sometimes find your cat under its bed rather than on it.

For this reason, it has become a trend for cat beds to now feature some kind of top cover. Some cat owners also like to put a blanket on the bed. This allows their pet to take shelter with the blanket, while still keeping the warmth of the bed under its body.

The exterior of a cat bed can be made from a variety of materials: cotton, plush, foam, wool, leather, latex, plastic or wicker.
(Source: Noppharat Manakul: 32432045/

Why doesn’t my cat like their bed?

Your feline friend may not like its new bed and keep using its common resting places for several reasons. First of all, you may have place the bed in a spot of the house that your cat doesn’t like. Additionally, your cat may not like the material that the bed is made from.

Do keep in mind that these animals are very clean and tidy, and your cat will always want and need a clean bed. The great news is that most cat beds are machine washable. Your pet may not necessarily like that their bed doesn’t smell like him or her after it’s been washed. If this is the case, then we recommend you to put a few of their toys back into the bed. Another thing you should do it think about your cat’s habits when you position their bed: if their favourite room is the living room, put the bed in there!

Lewis CarrollAuthor

“It is a very inconvenient habit of kittens (Alice had once made the remark) that whatever you say to them, they always purr.”

When will my cat most use their bed?

Cats are most active at dawn and dusk. So when you are resting, your pet will want to eat and play. Therefore, when you’re most likely to be busy during the afternoon is when they’ll probably be sleeping!

Even if you give your cat food at home, they still may want to go out at night and eat, since their instinct calls for them to hunt in the dark since they can see very well in the dark. Cats also love taking advantage of the sun to lie down and rest in its heat.

Can I put my cat’s bed in the garden?

Yes, especially during daytime when it will love enjoying the warmth of the sun. That being said, experts do recommend that your cat sleep inside at night, to remain protected from the cold. If you’d rather they stayed outdoors or if you notice that your cat prefers to stay outdoors all the time, provide a safe and sheltered space, that’s not likely to get too cold during the winter.

You can find waterproof and well-protected beds that are specifically designed to keep your cat warm even if it stays in your garden. You should always think about what your cat likes to do and what makes them happy. They may love the garden or hate it. How they behave and which parts of your house they spend the most time in should strongly influence your decision when it comes to choosing and positioning their bed, because certain cats may want to be outside all day – especially kittens!

Cats are most active at dawn and dusk.
(Source: Berna Namoglu: 17751475/

Where is the best place to place my cat’s bed?

Choosing that spot will be influenced by the size of the bed and the space it will take up. You should also take into consideration which part of the house your cat uses the most and where they like to lie down.

Cats like to spend their day in different parts of the house, so it’s a good idea to have several beds so that your cat doesn’t resort to sleeping on your chairs and sofas since they could damage them.

You should remember that cats are difficult to control. They set their own rules and like to keep the same habits, so make sure you place the bed in their favourite places of house. Otherwise, they may simply ignore their bed and continue to go to the areas of the house where they enjoy sleeping.

Can I let my cat sleep in my bed?

Your cat can sleep with you if you want them to, and if both you and your cat are comfortable. In fact, it is very common for people to place their kitten’s bed on top of their own, so that the animal has their own space. That way, you’ll be sleeping together but still have your own private spaces.

Cats are creatures of habit. They’ll love sleeping next to your face when they are still babies. As they grow up, they tend to position themselves at your feet. A lot people enjoy sleeping close to their cats, even though they may wake you up several times a night. They can wake up early and ask you for food.

Cats are creatures of habit.
(Source: Alena Ozerova: 37827230/

What are the benefits of sharing a bed with my cat?

Studies have shown that petting animals relieves stress and increases oxytocin production. Some even say that people who have a cat at home are less likely to suffer from cardiovascular diseases. Cats are very pleasant company, which helps to avoid feeling lonely.

The purr of a cat is also very relaxing for certain people. This helps them sleep, as our feline friends tend to get more cuddly at night when their owner is around. Your cat will love to feel the warmth of your body and spend time with you. Some experts believe that this strengthens the bonds of affection.


Cats pay more attention to women than men because they understand better when spoken to in a high-pitched voice.

When shouldn’t my cat and I share a bed?

It is recommended that you sleep in separate places if you have an allergy to cats or if you have asthma. You may be sleeping with your young child, in which case it is also advised to make your cat sleep elsewhere; otherwise, it might to sleep too close to your baby. You should also remember that light sleepers are likely to be woken up by their feline friend during the night.

It is important to mention that most pets can spread various diseases. While these are particularly isolated cases for cats, it is possible to get cat-scratching disease, and ringworm or lungworm.

Should my cat sleep in my bed if I have allergies?

The skin of felines produces a protein called Fel D1 that is responsible for causing allergies in people. If that’s your case, you can naturally continue to cohabit with your cat, but there are a few precautions to follow. It is recommended to frequently brush your pet, remove any rugs you may have and clean them, clean your home often and avoid sleeping together. This last part may be difficult for some people.

You should also know that mattresses, duvets, sheets and upholstery tend to attract allergens. It is therefore advised to avoid sharing them. This is why your cat having its own bed will be better for your health. Your pet will be happier with its own bed and won’t rest on surfaces that you use.

A cat’s purr can be very relaxing for some people.
(Source: Dmytro Skorabogatov: 46342978/

Can I teach my cat to sleep wherever I want them to?

Cats are well known for setting their own rules rather than abiding by the rules of others. That being said, you can educate them in doing certain things you want. Keep in mind that education should start the moment your cat arrives in your home. If they already have their routine, it will be very difficult to change those habits.

While you can train your cat, it has to be within what they like. If your pet likes to rest on the couch, for instance, you won’t want to put its bed anywhere else in the house. Place it on the couch, close to it, or on a high surface. You can also leave treats in the bed or wherever you want your cat to sleep, or a garment that smells of you so they don’t miss you.

Buying Criteria

Cat beds are extremely important items for your pet, since they love to have their own place to rest. The market offers a wide range of products, and you’ll have to find the model that will suit your needs, and most importantly that of your cat. In the following section, we’ve analysed some key factors that will help you make the right decision:

  • Size
  • External materials
  • Filling materials
  • Design
  • Location within house


Buying a bed or mattress where your cat fits perfectly is essential for its rest. The majority of products available are closed to provide a sense of security to your pet, which is why you need to make sure they can fit inside before making the purchase. Take into account the length and width of your cat and you’ll find just the right bed.

A lot of beds on the market come in a single size, which is why you need to pay attention to this. These models are generally designed for medium sized cats, which are the most common. If your animal is very tall or overweight, you’ll have to be very careful with the characteristics of the product you want to buy – especially if it is an enclosed space.

The market offers a wide variety of cat beds.
(Source: Grigory Lukyanov: 19055185/

External materials

The external part of the bed is important to consider, as it will offer a more or less pleasant touch for your cat. It also in part determines where you can put the bed. The manufacturing materials commonly used are: cotton, plush, foam, wool, leather, latex, plastic or wicker. The material should also be chosen according to the time of year.

Cotton and wool, for instance, will be most appropriate during the winter months, while felt or wicker are great bed materials in the summer.


Remember to opt for waterproof materials if you decide to put the bed in the garden – plastic, latex or wicker are ideal for this. You can also buy a sleeping bag that is warm inside and covered with plastic to wick moisture away.

Filling materials

The key to your cat’s comfort is the material used to fill it. The floor on its own isn’t good enough to rest, and the truth is that your pet will always be on some kind of surface of your home. If you really want your feline friend to be happy with its own space, opt for a bed with the right padding that will make it soft and comfortable.

Foam is the most common filler used. You may want to go for a bed filled with memory foam if your cat is older and has joint problems. Allergy-prone animals will prefer cotton, feathers or wool. Ideal for summer, hammocks or wicker beds sometimes come with a mattress; otherwise, you can add one yourself.

Cats spend a lot of time resting.
(Source: Alena Ozerova: 40069117/


The design of a cat bed should be chosen based on how your pet sleeps and its size. Two things truly matter: that your cat is comfortable, and they uses its new bed instead of your furniture. There is a great variety of models out there when it comes to their shape. Here’s a quick table to help you pick the right one for your feline friend:

If your cat: Get this type of bed:
Sleeps stretched Mattress. Some models are flat and others have raised edges to provide a support for the head.
Sleeps rolled-up Enclosed/igloo type. This type gives a safe space for your animal to sleep.
Tends to be cold Sleeping bag. Your cat can sleep on top when it’s hot, or get inside for warmth during the winter.
Loves heights Hammock. These little beds can be hooked with suction cups or nails onto walls and windows for your feline to enjoy sleeping in height.
Often scratches with its claws Scratcher. These models feature shapes and materials that are suitable for your cat’s claws. That way, it won’t scratch your furniture or its fabric bed.

Location within house

As we mentioned earlier, it is important to set the bed in a place where your cat is comfortable. If your animal prefers being outdoors, choose a product that can withstand rain and provide warmth at the same time. If your feline friend enjoys being on the sofa, get a bed that can fit in that space. If they don’t mind not being on an elevated surface, a well-padded bed will be your option of choice.

On the other hand, if your cat is cold or timid and likes to hide to sleep, we recommend you opt for an enclosed bed or a sleeping bag that will provide true shelter. On the contrary, a hammock will satisfy your pet if it loves spending hours peeking out the window or climbing up the furniture in your home.


A cat bed is perfect to provide your pet with their own space and to improve their overall well-being. Cat beds are also perfect for you as an owner, since they will stop your cat from scratching and damaging your furniture with their claws and it will stop them from leaving hair around your house. If you suffer from allergies, cat beds also serve for collecting the particles that are harmful to you.

Even if you’re happy to share your bed or sofa with your pet, it is important that it has its own space too. These animals need privacy to feel comfortable. There is a wide range of cat beds available, so pick one that is tailored to your cat’s personality and where you want to place it in your home. You can even get more than one and place them in your pet’s favourite corners!

If you liked our article on cat beds, feel free to share it with your friends on your social media. You can also leave us a comment with any question or suggestion you may have in the section below.

(Source of featured image: Alena Ozerova: 47669383/

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