If you have an older tabby, a comfortable bed is important for them to relax and take some pressure off their old bones. Even a wiry and flexible animal such as a cat can develop arthritis as they get older. The pain and discomfort they feel are the same as what we would suffer with.
As mentioned, a good purchase to make for your senior feline is a nice soft bed. The hard part of this equation is finding a good one. There are so many options out there that it can be hard to narrow it down to the best product.
This is where we come in to help. We have found the seven best cat beds for older cats. We will share all the important details such as comfortability, design, construction, care instructions, and much more. Not only that, but we will also give you some tips on picking out the right size and some ways to make your feline friend even more comfortable.
Our top choice for best bed goes to the Hepper Nest. This bowl-shaped bed offers maximum support for even the eldest of cats. Sore joints and muscles are comfortably assisted by the high sides of the bowl. The depth of the Nest allows this bed to be self-warming, maintaining any heat generated from your cat while they are cuddled up inside. Additionally, the sides provide a greater sense of security that mature cats desire as they reach their golden years.
The Nest features a removable sherpa lining that is machine washable. The outer shell is constructed of a strong poly-foam which allows for easy surface cleaning and repels cat hair. The unique design makes this bed incredibly versatile – you can leave it on the floor, desktop, counters, end tables, etc. – which means your cat can feel at ease knowing they can be close to you at all times.
The only downside of this bed is the height, which reaches 5.75 inches. This may pose a bit of a hurdle if your cat suffers from severe joint pain. Otherwise, this bed is a great option for those looking for a portable, supportive, and sleek-looking cat bed for their older feline.
At ExcitedCats.com we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest, so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!
If you have an older tabby that needs a supportive bed but you are on a budget, we recommend trying the Frisco Self Warming Bolster Round Cat Bed. This option comes in several neutral colors to match your interior and is available in a 17 x 14 x2.5-inch side. As the name suggests, this round option uses your cat’s body heat to keep the bed warm. There are no wires, and it does not require any batteries.
This comfortable bed is machine washable. Not only that, but you can use it as a floor bed or in a crate. The soft bolsters on the sides allow your pet to comfortably lean back for support or lay their chin for a good view. The Frisco cat bed is made of soft faux fur and fleece that does not easily attract fur.
This bed is durable plus safe for your pet to use. It has a padded center to keep your pet off of the hard floor. The only downside to this option is it does not have a non-skid bottom. Other than that, this is the best cat bed for older cats for the money.
Our third pick is the Armarkat Burrow Cat Bed. This is a sleeping bag style bed that your older feline can sleep in, or they can lay on top of it. It comes in sage green and beige, along with mocha and red, as well. This option features an outer soft bolster rim where your pet can lay their head or lean against. Plus, the faux suede and fur lining will keep them comfortable and cozy.
The Armarkat is filled with 100% poly filler that is extra thick and provides support for joint and bone pain. This is a durable option that is safe for your pet, and it is machine washable. The bed is handcrafted and comes in a 22 x 14 x 10-inch size. You also have a waterproof bottom in case of accidents. Not only that, but the bottom base is skid-free, so you do not have to worry about the bed slipping all over the floor.
Overall, this is a great bed for your senior cat to lay and relax. They have the option to hide inside or relax on top of it.
Our third option is the K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Cat Bed. This feline lounge comes in a small 16 x 16 x 6-inch size, or a large 20 x 20 x 6-inch size. If your pet has any arthritis or joint issues, they will love this heated bed. The surface will warm up to 10 to 15 degrees hotter than the ambient temperature in the room. It has a dual thermostat along with a 5.5-foot electrical cord for convenience. What’s more, it only uses four watts of power.
Besides the heating mechanism, the K&H bed has a thick and soft orthopedic foam bottom. The cover, cushion, and bolster ring are all removable and washable. You will also not have to worry about this bed moving across the floor as the heaviness keeps it from skidding.
One thing to note about this option is that it’s more expensive than our first two picks. Other than that, it has soft bolster sides with a faux suede outer material. This is a durable option that will not easily rip or break. Equally important, it is also safe for your pet to use as it uses safe electrical components.
The Aspen Pet Bolster Cat Bed Is a couch-like bed that comes in various colors to match your interior, plus it comes with a small matching pillow. It has three-sided bolsters that are soft and overstuffed. Not only that, but it is also made with sherpa fleece and faux suede for an extra comfortable spot for your cat to relax. Even better, it is also topped with a plush material.
The Aspen bed has a non-skid bottom, plus it is filled with 100% recycled fibers. It can be tossed in the washing machine when it gets dirty. You can also pick it up in a 20 x 16 x 7-inch size. One thing to note about this option, however, is that it can easily lose its shape. You will have to pull out the cushion to get it back to status quo every so often depending on how rambunctious your cat is while relaxing.
Something else you should consider is that this bed is not as durable as others. If your cat likes to claw on their bed or bite, you will likely see tears or rips sooner rather than later. Beyond that, this is a safe option that is made with non-toxic materials. It has a thick bed area and soft sides for your senior cat to sleep on.
Our final option is the FurHaven Snuggle Orthopedic Pillow Cat Bed. This is a flat pet bed that comes in a small, medium, large, or jumbo size. You also have the option of either clay, expresso, caramel, or a forest color depending on your taste and furnishings. You will have a removable and washable cover, just keep in mind that it will shrink and pucker.
This orthopedic cat bed option has a terry cloth top and suede sides. Unfortunately, the terry cloth top is not as comfortable for your pet as other fabrics. Not only that, but their nails can get stuck in the material, plus it tends to rip easily. What’s worse, there are no bolsters on the sides of this cat bed for support.
The FurHaven has an orthopedic foam, egg-crate mattress. It has a water-resistant bottom and is safe for your pet. Unfortunately, the overall construction of the bed is not durable. The foam tends to be too hard for senior cats with joint pain, and it does not have a non-skid bottom. This can cause it to move and slip around as your cat tries to get comfortable. Overall, this is our least favorite option for a feline bed for senior cats.
Pros
Machine washable
Water-resistant bottom
Safe
Cons
No bolsters
Slips on floor
Material is not safe and catches on nails
Not durable
Shrinks after wash
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Cat Bed for Older Cats
As your cat ages, they can develop joint discomfort and inflammation. Arthritis and other ailments can cause them to be uncomfortable even when they are lying down. One great way to alleviate some of the symptoms is by providing them with a comfortable bed that is cushioned and supports their body.
Unfortunately, there are so many options available on the market today it can be hard to choose one that will be effective and worth the money. Take a look at these few tips on picking out a good pet bed below.
Base: One of the most important features of a cat bed that you want to look at is the base. Whether it is made of foam or polyester filling, it is important to make sure that it is thick and soft. It will also need to support their weight. Memory foam, for example, can be a bit too hard for your tabby as their body weight is not heavy enough to break in the material.
Bolsters: Bolsters are another important aspect of a senior cat bed. Whether they are on two, three, or four sides, they allow your pet to lean against them and support their weight. Not only that, but most cats enjoy leaning their chin on these supports to get a bird’s-eye view of their surroundings.
Non-Skid Bottom: Older cats, like anyone else, can start to develop some balance problems. You must find a bed that has a non-skid bottom. This will prevent the mattress from sliding over the floor while your puss is trying to get comfortable.
Durable: Some pets develop hip and joint issues earlier in life, so they still maintain a lot of friskiness. If your pet still enjoys clawing, chewing, or just generally being rambunctious, you want to find him a bed that is going to be durable. You also want to make sure that the material is not going to unravel if they decide to sharpen their claws on the fabric.
Machine Washable: A removable cover is another feature that is typically important to most pet parents. A pet bed will need to be washed every so often and being able to just toss in the cover versus buying a new one is important.
Heat: If your tabby has a more advanced illness, a bed that provides warmth is always a good option. There are typically two types of beds that offer this feature. You can purchase one that is self-warming which uses your cat’s body heat to keep them warm, or you can use an electric pet bed that works basically like an electric blanket. If you choose the electric route, make sure that they are safe and that your pet cannot chew through any electrical cords.
Tips for Keeping Your Cat Comfy
It can be difficult for a pet parent to watch their tabby suffer through arthritis and joint pain as they age. Buying them a comfortable bed that will give them a place to relax and be at ease is important, yet there are still some other helpful tips and tricks that will give your pet some additional relief.
Grooming: Helping your cat with grooming can ease some of their discomfort. Taking care of places on their back or tail that they cannot easily reach any more will make them more comfortable and keep them from having to bend in ways that may be painful.
Food Dishes: Another way to alleviate some of your pet’s discomfort is to place their food and water dish in a convenient location. Placing them on small stands where your cat does not have to bend over can help. This can all depend on where your cat has an issue, but making it easier to access their food in water is a great help.
Litter Box: The litter box is another aspect of your cat’s life that should be convenient. If you are able, place your cat’s litter box in a nearby location to their bed so that they can easily make their way to it. What’s more, finding an option that has low sides or a walk-through opening so they do not have to lift their legs can also help.
Massage: If your pet is a fan of a good cuddle, giving them a light cat massage can also help the sore areas. In this case, it is important to be very gentle and more or less pat the area that is affected.
Warmth: If you do not like the idea of a warming pet bed, a heated towel from the dryer can do the same job. Place the towel in their bed or even on your lap where they can lay and relax.
Catnip and Other Relaxers: There are many anti-anxiety options for your pet that are natural. Catnip is one of the most popular. Although it may not do a lot for the pain, it can still relax them and give them a little enjoyment.
Medication: Regardless of the stage and they are at, you should always speak with your vet when you see any signs of change in your cat’s normal behavior. Your veterinarian will be able to go over treatment options with you regarding your pet’s care. If there are some pain-relieving medications for felines, this may be the best way to go. Keep in mind, you never want to give your cat any type of medication without first speaking with your trusted vet.
Conclusion
We hope that you have enjoyed the above reviews on the best cat beds for older cats. In our opinion, the Armarkat Burrow Cat Bed is the best option available. However, our premium pick, the Hepper Nest, is both comfortable and supportive, as well as fashionable, machine washable, and made of a durable foam that is built to last. If you need a more affordable option, the Frisco Self Warming Bolster Round Cat Bed is a great alternative. Best comfy couches are your body heat to warm them up and keep them comfortable.
It can be a hard experience to watch your cat’s endure pain. The more that you can enhance their quality of life, the better off you will be. We hope that we have given you some food for thought on the best bed available for when your cat is in pain.
Christian is the Editor-in-Chief of Excited Cats and one of its original and primary contributors. A lifelong cat lover, now based in South East Asia, Christian and his wife are the proud parents of an 11-year-old son and four rescue cats: Trixie, Chloe, Sparky, and Chopper.
