Why does my cat ignore the bed I bought?

Almost always placement or temperature. Move it to the spot they already nap in — a sunny windowsill or a high shelf — before deciding the bed is wrong.

Do cats need a heated bed?

Most do not. Older or thin cats appreciate gentle warmth, but the bed must be big enough for them to move off the heated area whenever they want.

How many beds does one cat need?

Two or three resting spots at different heights suits most cats — they rotate through them with the sun.

Cat beds

Cat Beds: How to Choose One Your Cat Will Actually Sleep In

Cats sleep for most of the day and are fussy about where. The bed itself matters less than warmth, safety and position, which is why an expensive bed in the wrong place loses to a cardboard box in the sun.

An enclosed cave-style cat bed with a soft plush lining and a supporting frame

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What to look for

A raised rim to curl against: Most cats sleep curled and like something to press their spine into. A bolster or donut edge suits more cats than a flat mat.
Snug, not spacious: Cats want to fill the bed. A bed the size of a small dog's leaves them feeling exposed.
Machine washable: Beds collect hair, dander and the occasional accident. A removable cover you can wash at 40°C is essential.
A non-slip base: Beds that skate across a wooden floor when a cat jumps in tend to be abandoned.

What to avoid

Heated pads without a thermostat, and any heat source an older cat cannot move away from.
Beds placed in a draught, a doorway or a busy corridor.
Assuming a cat will use a bed just because it was expensive.

Getting it right at home

Offer two or three sleeping options at different heights and let the cat choose.
Put the bed in the warm, sunny spot the cat already uses.
Wash covers every couple of weeks in unscented detergent.
Add a worn t-shirt for the first week so it smells familiar.

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Affiliate link — as an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my cat ignore the bed I bought?: Almost always placement or temperature. Move it to the spot they already nap in — a sunny windowsill or a high shelf — before deciding the bed is wrong.
Do cats need a heated bed?: Most do not. Older or thin cats appreciate gentle warmth, but the bed must be big enough for them to move off the heated area whenever they want.
How many beds does one cat need?: Two or three resting spots at different heights suits most cats — they rotate through them with the sun.

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