How to Choose a Cat Bed

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Cats tend to sleep throughout the day. You might want to purchase a cat bed for your cat, instead of having it sleep on your bed/couch/furniture. Cats shed fur, might get ticks and fleas or urinate/defecate if young in age. You don’t want your cat to infect your bed with ticks. So, why not get them a bed of their own? Here are some qualities to look for, when purchasing a bed for your cat –

• Buy a bed made of wool/cotton or other such natural fabrics – These are comfortable and less likely to give your cat an allergic reaction.
• Make sure it is washable – At the least, your cat bed should have a washable cover. You will need to wash this cover off all the accumulated germs and bacteria periodically. The best bed for a cat is entirely washable one. 
• Measure your cat before buying its bed – Your cat's bed needs to be a couple of inches more than the total size of your cat. That way, your cat will have enough space to stretch out, without feeling cramped in its own bed. 
• Choose the shape of the bed – A cup-style bed with softly rounded walls make your cat feel safe and secure. They also make for great beds for your feline companion, if they prefer sleeping curled up into a ball. You could also pick a cave-style bed if your cat likes enclosures and keeping itself hidden.
• Decide on the bed’s size – While cats have enough mobility to jump into beds with high walls, kittens and old cats don’t. So, even if your kitten could use a bed with high walls in the future, don’t buy it such a bed at this time in its life.
• Consider getting a heated bed – Often, you will come across electrically/naturally heated cat beds. Cats love warmth; it's no secret. So, maybe buy your cat a warm bed to snuggle up in.
• Agree on a price – Yes, your cat deserves all the comfort in the world. However, your cat won’t be able to tell an expensive bed from one more reasonably priced. Stick to a budget when shopping for your cat’s bed.

Post-purchase

Your cat will still want to sleep with you on your bed or other furniture, even after you've gotten its very own bed. You have to wean your cat off this habit. Place your cat's bed in an area that it frequents. Also, ensure this area gets some sun. Placing your cat's bed on the floor is a better idea than fixing it on a perch. A high perched bed could lead to accidents if not fixed well. Let your cat get used to its bed, and soon you will find it showering its love and gratitude on you for your thoughtful act.