Cats are drawn to all kinds of weird spots in the house, and cat owners understand how much they love to nap. You can find them basking in the sunlight on a sun-drenched windowsill, curled up in the top corner of your wardrobe, or stretched out along the arm of your sofa.
But where should you put your cat's bed?
Because cats love to move around, and there are different reasons for where they choose to slumber, we have put together a short list of ideal spots to place your kitty's bed. We will also look at ways to encourage your cat to use their bed, why they choose specific locations, and if sharing your bed with your feline friend is a good idea.
The 5 Ideal Spots to Put a Cat Bed
1. Your Cat's Favorite Napping Spot
The best way to get your cat to sleep in a cat bed is to put it somewhere in which they already has a favorite napping spot. Take note of your cat's favorite napping sites and place the cat bed there first. Your cat will likely continue to sleep wherever they prefer, even if there is a snuggly pet bed for them somewhere else. If your cat is hesitant to snuggle up in their new bed, try spraying it with catnip or leaving treats to convince your kitty that it's a great spot.
2. A Quiet Space
Cats prefer to be near you when you are sitting or sleeping, but your kitty will most likely prefer to sleep somewhere quiet and secluded if the house is busy and noisy. Bedrooms are usually more peaceful during the day because they are not used as much and are an ideal place to put your cat's bed, so your kitty can enjoy an uninterrupted slumber. Even a quiet corner of your kitchen or home office can provide seclusion for afternoon cat naps.
3. Your Cat's Favorite Furniture
Cats often prefer to be near their owners, and you may have noticed that they tend to sleep wherever you are. If you are watching TV, they are usually snoozing on the sofa with you. Place your cat's bed close to where you are working or relaxing, either on the arm of the couch, next to the bed, or if you have a big enough desk, you could place it in the corner where it won't get in your way. Your cat will be snug and happy to be close to you.
4. Cat Furniture
Many cats like to sleep on top of or inside a cat condo or the flat perches in a cat tree. Adding furniture to your cat's favorite napping area can make the cat bed more appealing.
5. Choose Somewhere Elevated
Many cats prefer to perch up high, where they can see the whole room. When deciding on a spot to put your cat's bed, consider placing it on top of furniture rather than on the floor. You can place it on the top of a wardrobe where your kitty can climb up, on the back of the couch, or on a windowsill where they can keep warm in the morning sun.
How to Encourage Your Cat to Use Their Bed
A brand new, comfy cat bed that sits in the corner of the living room unused is a familiar scenario for any cat owner. Here are a few tips and tricks to change that and encourage your cat to use and love their bed.
1. Make the Bed Appealing
You can sprinkle catnip or their favorite treat on their bed to entice them. Catnip is ideal since it will get your cat to roll around and play while developing their interest in something new. This is a sure-fire way to encourage your kitty to use their bed. Cats also grow familiar with the scent of their owners and are comforted by it, as well as their scent, so it can be helpful to leave your cat's favorite blanket or an old shirt on the bed to comfort them and lure them in.
2. Choose the Right Bed
Pay attention and notice how your cat likes to sleep. If your cat usually rolls up in a ball, then a small, round bed with raised sides will be ideal since it holds in heat and keeps the cat secure in their favorite position. If you notice your cat in the more protected areas like under your bed, then a cave-like pod that encloses them will be ideal. If your cat likes to stretch out, then a rectangular and spacious bed is perfect so your kitty can stretch out as far as they want.
3. Keep Your Cat's Bed Cozy
The temperature should be just right: not too cold or too warm. Ensure your cat's bed is not in a drafty area, but also not too close to the heat.
4. Make Other Spots Undesirable
Make the areas you don't want your cat sleeping undesirable. You can do this by spraying the areas with a natural citrus spray or apple cider vinegar and water. Cats don't enjoy these smells and will avoid those areas. You can also cover the areas with tin foil or place barriers or pet gates.
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Why Do Cats Change Sleeping Spots?
Cats seek safety and comfort. This explains why you have noticed your cat often in a new sleeping spot, and sometimes in the strangest spots. A soft blanket can remind your cat of the kitten pile they were once a part of, where they felt safe and comfortable, and that's why it is common to find your cat curled up in your blankets, clothing, or bedding.
The bathroom is another common spot to find your cat napping. The cold porcelain basin can cool your kitty down on a hot day, and its shape replicates a safe den.
Your cat will continue to change sleeping spots, even though there are no predators because it is a natural instinct to protect themself. Not only that, but they also need to move regularly to regulate their temperature and adjust their bodies. The warm sunny windowsill will eventually become too warm, in which case, the cold bathroom sink becomes enticing.
Can My Cat Share My Bed?
Most cat owners will agree that snuggling up with your kitty in bed is heartwarming and calming. In fact, it is said that at least 50% of Americans allow their cats to curl up in bed with them.
While sharing your bed with your cat has its benefits, such as companionship, reducing stress and anxiety, warmth, and security, cats are crepuscular animals, which means they are most active at dawn and dusk, and your sleep may be interrupted regularly throughout the night or in the early hours of the morning. A playful kitty will attempt to attack your moving feet, which will likely wake you up and interrupt your sleep patterns.
Allergies to dander can also be an issue if your cat sleeps on your bed. If your cat has fleas, you will quickly find out as you begin to scratch from flea bites.
Conclusion
We know cats can be fickle and unpredictable, and trying to understand them can be impossible, but if you follow these tips and ideas, you can rest easy knowing that your cat will, too.
There is no perfect spot to put your cat's bed, but providing a few spots for your kitty to nap will help them feel secure and comfortable. Cats will choose their own sleep space at the end of the day, and a loving and stable environment is the first step to help them sleep well.
