Is It Worth Getting a Cat Bed? A Practical Guide for Real Cat Parents

1. Why Your Cat’s Sleep Spot Matters More Than You Think

Most healthy adult cats sleep somewhere around 12–18 hours a day, and many push closer to 20 hours as they age. That means your cat can easily spend more than half of their life resting or sleeping in the same few spots.

Because they nap so much, where they sleep affects:

• Joint comfort and pain levels, especially in senior cats or those with arthritis.
• Temperature regulation in homes that run cool in winter or very warm in summer.
• Stress and anxiety—having a predictable, safe “den” helps sensitive cats feel secure.
• Cleanliness, both for your cat’s coat and for your furniture, bedding, and floors.

A cat bed doesn’t replace the couch or your pillow (let’s be honest, they’ll still claim those), but it gives them at least one space that’s designed for their comfort, not just repurposed from your stuff.

2. Is a Cat Bed Really Worth It? Pros & Cons

Overall, if you can budget for a well-made, washable bed in the $30–$60 range, it’s usually a worthwhile upgrade to your cat’s daily comfort—especially for indoor-only cats, seniors, or cats with joint stiffness.

3. Types of Cat Beds & Which Cats They Suit

Cat beds aren’t one-size-fits-all. Different styles work better for different personalities, ages, and climates. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Tip: if you’re not sure what your cat will like, notice the shape they choose naturally—do they sprawl long, curl into tight balls, or hide under blankets? Let that guide your choice.

4. How Many Cat Beds Do You Actually Need?

There’s no universal rule, but a good starting point for most households is:

• One primary bed per cat in a quiet, low-traffic area, plus
• One “optional” bed in a favorite hangout spot (like near a window or in your bedroom).

In multi-cat homes, extra beds help reduce tension and resource guarding. Some cats prefer higher spots (on cat trees or shelves), while others like floor-level nests; offering both can prevent arguments and give each cat their own territory.

If you live in a small apartment and your cat mostly sleeps on your bed, one compact, washable bed near your pillow or at the foot of the bed is often enough.

5. What to Look for in a Good Cat Bed

When you’re browsing cat beds online or in a pet store, focus less on aesthetics and more on features that directly affect comfort and hygiene:

• Size and shape: Your cat should be able to fully stretch out without hanging off the edge, but not feel lost in an oversized bed.
• Support: Look for beds that don’t collapse into a thin pancake when you press down. Seniors and heavier cats benefit from firmer foam or orthopedic inserts.
• Washability: Ideally, the bed has a removable, machine-washable cover, or is fully washable. This keeps odors, dander, and allergens under control.
• Fabric texture: Many cats prefer soft but not overly slippery surfaces—think plush, sherpa, or brushed cotton rather than slick nylon.
• Non-slip base: Helpful on hardwood floors so the bed doesn’t slide when your cat jumps in or out.
• Safety: Avoid loose strings, beads, or zippers your cat might chew, and be cautious with electric heating elements if your cat is a chronic cord chewer.
• Fit with your home: A bed that looks good in your space is more likely to stay out and actually be used instead of getting shoved into a closet.

If your cat has health issues (arthritis, past injuries, or chronic pain), it’s worth asking your vet if a heated or orthopedic bed would be helpful, and whether there are any materials you should avoid.

6. Where to Put a Cat Bed So Your Cat Actually Uses It

The best cat bed in the world won’t get much love if it’s in the wrong spot. Use these placement tips:

• Start with your cat’s current favorite nap zones. Put the bed directly on or next to a place they already love—like beside the couch, near your desk, or under a sunny window.
• Choose a quiet, low-stress corner. Avoid right next to the litter box, noisy appliances, or heavy foot traffic.
• Think warm but not stuffy. Many cats love spots near (but not touching) heaters, radiators, or sunny windows.
• Offer some elevation. If possible, place one bed on a sturdy shelf, cat tree, or window perch so your cat can nap while “supervising” the room.
• Add familiar scents. A worn T-shirt or small blanket that smells like you can encourage nervous cats to try a new bed.

Don’t worry if your cat ignores the bed at first. Many cats “discover” new beds weeks later, especially if you quietly move them to spots your cat already visits.

7. Budget vs. Premium: How Much Should You Spend?

Cat beds in the U.S. run from around $15 for simple pillows to well over $200 for heated or therapeutic models. Most good-quality beds fall somewhere between $30 and $60.

When a budget bed makes sense:

• You’re buying a bed for a kitten who may outgrow it quickly.
• Your cat already prefers cooler, harder surfaces and you just want a soft option for variety.
• You’re testing what style they like (donut vs. cave vs. mat) before upgrading.

When a pricier or orthopedic bed is “worth it”:

• Your cat is senior, arthritic, or stiff after naps.
• Your home has tile or hardwood floors that stay cold much of the year.
• Your cat is indoor-only and spends most of the day lounging.
• You want thicker foam, better fabric, and a sturdy removable cover that will last several years.

For many cat parents, a sweet spot is a mid-range bed with decent support and washable covers. You don’t need the most expensive option, but very cheap beds often flatten quickly and end up replaced sooner.

8. Designing a Cozy Cat Corner with PetDecorArt (Optional, But Fun)

Once you’ve chosen a bed and a good location, you can turn that spot into a little “cat sanctuary” that feels special to both of you. This is where thoughtful décor and keepsakes shine.

9. FAQs About Cat Beds

Do cats really need a cat bed?

Not in the sense that they can’t sleep without one—cats will nap almost anywhere. But a good bed provides consistent comfort, warmth, and a designated safe spot, which is especially helpful for indoor, senior, or anxious cats.

What if my cat ignores the bed?

Try moving the bed to a favorite spot, adding a blanket that smells like you, or choosing a different style (for example, a cave bed instead of an open cushion). Some cats take weeks to “accept” a new bed, so give it time before calling it a fail.

Where should I place the bed?

Start with where your cat already naps—by a window, near your desk, or at the foot of your bed. Choose a warm, quiet corner away from loud appliances and heavy traffic, and avoid placing the bed right next to the litter box or food bowls.

How often should I wash a cat bed?

For most indoor cats, washing every 2–4 weeks works well, or more often if your cat sheds heavily, has allergies, or has frequent hairballs. Follow the care label and use mild, fragrance-free detergents if your cat has sensitive skin.

Are heated cat beds safe?

Quality heated beds designed specifically for pets are generally safe when used as directed—placed on a stable surface, not stacked with extra blankets, and inspected regularly for wear. Avoid human heating pads on high settings, and be cautious with cord-chewing cats.

Will a cat bed help with shedding and allergies?

A washable bed can absolutely help localize fur and dander. It won’t eliminate allergies, but it can make cleaning easier and reduce how much hair ends up on your bedding or sofa, especially if your cat chooses the bed as one of their main nap spots.

Can I use a small dog bed instead?

Yes, many small dog beds work perfectly fine for cats. Just make sure the sides aren’t too high for your cat to step over comfortably and that the materials are soft and supportive enough.

Is it okay if my cat only wants to sleep on my bed?

That’s normal for many cats. You can still place a cat bed on or near your bed to provide extra cushioning and keep fur a little more contained. Having at least one alternative bed elsewhere in the home is still a good idea for flexibility.

What size cat bed should I get?

Measure your cat from nose to base of tail while they’re stretched out, then add a few inches. For donut or cave beds, make sure the inner space is big enough for them to curl up comfortably without having to squish themselves tightly.

Is buying a cat bed actually worth it overall?

For most U.S. cat owners, the answer is yes, especially if you choose a washable, decently padded bed your cat will actually use. The cost is relatively low compared to the daily comfort it provides—think of it as upgrading your cat from a thin mat to a supportive mattress.

Final Thoughts

Your cat doesn’t care about brand names or color palettes—but they do care about warmth, security, and having a place that feels like “theirs.” A thoughtful cat bed, placed in the right spot, is a small investment that can make a big difference in their day-to-day comfort.

If you want to take it a step further, adding personalized décor from PetDecorArt around that space can turn a simple sleep spot into a cozy, meaningful corner of your home—one that celebrates how much your cat means to you.