Cats, with their mysterious and often enigmatic behaviors, have a particular fondness for their sleeping arrangements, a topic intriguing cat owners and animal enthusiasts alike. The question “Do cats like covered beds?” opens a window into the nuanced world of feline preferences and instincts.
From the warmth and security offered by various cat dens, including the cocoon-like cat cave beds, to the comfort of cuddler and bolster beds, and the versatility of partially covered beds, this article delves into the reasons behind cats’ attraction to these sheltered resting spots.
Exploring this topic not only enhances our understanding of cat behavior but also guides pet owners in creating a nurturing and comfortable environment for their beloved feline friends.
Do Cats Like Covered Beds
Do cats like covered beds? Absolutely! With instincts rooted in seeking warmth, security, and privacy, cats naturally gravitate towards enclosed sleeping spaces like cozy cat caves or cuddler beds. These sheltered sanctuaries not only fulfill their instinctual needs but also provide a sense of tranquility and comfort, enhancing their overall well-being.”
What Type of Bed Do Cats Prefer?
Cats have distinct preferences when it comes to their sleeping arrangements. Most favor enclosed beds, where they can feel safe and snug, and a haven for them to curl up and relax to the fullest extent.
Given their nocturnal nature, felines often seek luxury cat beds with super soft blankets to settle down at night. Such beds, especially those on cat stands higher up, allow them to survey their kingdom while they sleep, blending comfort with a sense of security.
In exploring the vast range of cat beds, it’s clear that the choice largely depends on a cat’s personality and how they sleep.
- Cats that love to curl into a ball for sleep often prefer a round cat bed with stiff sides, offering a snug place to wriggle and snuggle.
- Felines who sprawl out at night might like a mat or bed with plenty of room to stretch.
- Kitties seeking to huddle away from busy household areas tend to sleep in laundry baskets for privacy; the best cat beds for this personality are those resembling a cave, like the 3-in-1 Cat Bed, a perfect hidey-hole.
Also Read: Keeping a Cat in One Room
Do I Need to Change Where I Put a Cat Bed?
When considering if a change in your cat’s sleep location is needed, especially as they grow older, there’s the possibility that the furniture and rooms in your house they previously preferred might no longer suit them. Over time, it’s wise to move their bed to a new spot that your cat finds more comfortable for sleeping.
A mat in a different room can be a good start; let your cat choose where they want to sleep. For those with outdoor cats, dealing with stress and cleaning after their muddy paws can be a challenge. Here, washable cat beds are an excellent choice.
It’s recommended to have a bed for them to venture to at night and return for a nap. If you’re unsure about what type of bed to get, luxury cat beds can offer your feline the best comfort. A visit to TeachAboutCat offers a wide range for inspiration and helps you find the perfect bed that suits your cat’s evolving needs.
Why Do Cats Love Den-Like Beds?
Cat dens are one of the many available cat bed options and perhaps the most preferred. Cats seem to gravitate towards these alternatives more than the others. But why is that?
How Your Cats Sleeping Habits Effect Their Bed Preferences
Historians and cat behaviorists point out that our domestic cats, being descendants of African wildcats, have retained many of their ancestors’ instincts. Understanding these feline behaviors is crucial in comprehending their bed preferences.
These cats, like their wild counterparts, would traditionally hunt for their meals at night, leading to an instinctual pattern of sleep during the hours of the day. They are typically active at night, averaging about 12 to 16 hours of sleep to preserve energy for their rest of the body and prepare for the next meal or playtime.
When it comes to sleeping habits, cats often prefer to curl up in a tightly contained space. This behavior is a throwback to their need to protect themselves from being exposed to predators. Any noise or disturbance can interrupt their snooze, which is why the reason behind their sleeping spot choice is so important.
This is also why their intake of food and water is closely linked to their sleeping habits. Adequate and comfortable sleep is essential for them to grow, develop, and remain healthy and happy. As cat owners, recognizing these needs can help us provide the best care for our feline cat.
What is a Cat Den?
A cat den, often termed a cat cave or cat enclosure, is a special type of enclosed cat bed designed for the unique needs of felines. It’s a space where cats can curl up, play, and hide away from the world. These dens are typically Cocoon-like with just one entrance and exit, creating an environment that offers the right conditions for multiple activities. Their design makes them highly attractive to cats, who naturally seek secure and private spaces.
The most common cat dens are shaped like a nest and are made from materials like felt. These den-like beds come in several shapes, sizes, and materials including wool, wood, rattan, and sisal. This variety ensures that every cat can find a den that suits their preference, whether they want a snug retreat or a playful hideaway. Such dens cater to a cat’s instinctual desire for a safe, enclosed space, making them a popular choice among cat owners.
Reasons Why Cats Like Enclosed Cat Beds
Cat caves are greatly appreciated by cats as they provide a place to hide, pounce, and engage in playtime. They often mimic the experience of being in cardboard boxes or hiding under furniture, which is why cats are seen favoring these quiet, darker places for a nap.
Closed spaces in cat beds allow cats to sleep more freely, falling into deep sleep cycles without concern for their sleeping positions or fear of attack. These factors of warmth, privacy, and security are deeply connected to a cat’s instinctual needs and greatly contribute to their preference in bed options.
Also Read: How to Tell Your Cat is in Heat?
Sense of Security
Cats, while exploring their environments, often seek out small, enclosed spaces within their own house. Such spaces become crucial when unwanted changes in their routine cause stress, creating a need to hide and have a view that is controlled. They gravitate towards these areas in moments of calm to assess the situation. A study by Applied Animal Behaviour Science concluded that providing a hiding box or shelter can significantly reduce stress levels upon the arrival in a new space.
For domestic cats that are afraid of people, other animals, or even vacuum cleaners, the search for a place where they won’t be disturbed is ongoing. A cozy den serves as an alternative, the perfect hideout for times when they feel vulnerable or need solitude. This preference for enclosed beds is deeply ingrained in their instinct for security and tranquility.
Warmth
Felted wool, a common material for cat dens, acts as a self-warming, breathable fabric. As temperatures drop, the fibers trap moisture and produce heat, creating a perfect cocoon for cats to curl up in. During the summer months, these cuticles expand, releasing heat and allowing cool air to flow through the den. This particular feature is great for regulating body temperatures, making cats appreciate both the warmth and breathability that cat caves provide.
Privacy
Having a secure and warm place is crucial for your furry friend/ cat. Privacy allows them to relax, groom themselves, and sleep with their belly up. In times of stress, having a private place of their own, where they won’t be disturbed, is essential for their well-being.
Cat Dens and Enclosures
Cat dens offer a wide range in price, style, and quality, and being mindful of your cat’s preferences is key when choosing one for your home. Unlike a big, standard bed, the rule of thumb for dens is to add five to ten centimetres on each side when measuring the length of your cat, ensuring they can comfortably fit and move around inside. Similar to litterbox sizing, it doesn’t have to be just big enough; a bit of extra room is always appreciated.
Felt Cat Caves
When it comes to felt cat caves, the options balance practicality and comfort. These caves are often antibacterial, stain-resistant, foldable, soft, and breathable. They come in a range of colors, allowing them to match your home’s decor and your personal preferences. I suspect your cat will love whichever high-quality cave you choose, as these make for a beautiful and comfortable space for them.
Cat Den Furniture
For more structured, box-like options, cat den furniture integrates with your home’s aesthetics. These premium, boxed designs come with a higher price tag but are great-looking and often multi-purpose in design, serving as a permanent home for your cat. They can replace the typical cardboard box, providing a stylish and functional alternative.
Also Read: Why Does My Cat Sleep on My Clothes?
Why Your Private Kitty Could Benefit from an Enclosed Cat Bed?
It’s no secret that cats love to hide and find cozy spots for a nap—be it an Amazon delivery box or a laundry basket. Providing them with a designated space where they can seek comfort is essential. A comfy, enclosed cat bed offers this solace, emulating their natural hunting behavior of using a scratcher or climbing a cat tree and then hiding in an enclosed space. With different types of enclosed beds trending, it’s easy to consider one that will go well with anyone’s home decor.
Cat Cave Bed
A Cat Cave Bed is the optimal hideout for the modern cat, as it provides warmth, security, and comfort. Its Igloo-like cave shape among pet beds offers 360-degree coverage, giving your feline friend a special hiding space and shelter of their own to enjoy privacy and alone time. Such a cozy house creates a Feeling of being protected while snuggling, which can help reduce stress and boost health and well-being. Brands like Best Friends by Sheri offer these with a removable pad insert for easy cleaning, making them machine washable.
Cuddler & Bolster Beds
Cuddler and Bolster Beds, similar to dog beds, are perfect for cat beds as well. The Deep Dish pet bed, with its high walls, provides an increased sense of security and extra orthopedic comfort with head and neck support. Made of cozy, luxurious faux fur or sherpa material, these beds are ideal for cats and small dogs alike, catering to their preference for snug, enclosed spaces.
Also Read: Why Does My Cat Sleep Between My Legs?
Partially Covered Cat Beds
For your cat, a partially covered bed like the Cozy Cuddler offers the best of both worlds in terms of versatility. Featuring an attached pet blanket, this covered bed is a must-have for animals that love to hide or burrow. Its amazingly soft faux fur interior and hood provides both breathable warmth and a comfy surface to rest on, with the option of going under for added privacy being optional.
Enclosed Cat Beds for Your Pet Cat
Furnishing your home with a cat condo or new cat house hut as an enclosed bed is among the best pet supplies for your purring princess. These beds provide a secure and secluded space that cats like, offering them a private retreat within your home.
Conclusion
The affection cats have for covered beds is deeply rooted in their instinctual behaviors and needs. Whether it’s a cozy cat cave bed, a cuddler or bolster bed, or a partially covered bed, each type offers a unique blend of warmth, security, and privacy that cats instinctively crave. These beds not only mimic their natural tendencies to hide and seek shelter but also provide a comfortable space for relaxation and stress relief. The variety in design, from luxurious to practical, ensures that there’s a perfect option for every cat’s personality and every owner’s home decor. Ultimately, investing in the right type of bed enhances the well-being and happiness of our feline companions, making them feel loved, safe, and at ease in their environment.
