Cozy and Heated Cat Beds and Cat Caves to Keep Your Cat Warm

Fluffy orange cat lounging inside a cozy, enclosed cat bed with a plush white fur trim.

In this Article

Cold nights call for cozy naps. You know the look. Your cat kneads a soft spot, tucks in, and lets out that long, happy sigh. The right bed turns that moment into an everyday routine. Use this guide to compare cozy beds, heated options, and cat caves that match what you’ll find at PetSmart.

Best cat beds for winter: quick picks

  • Warm and snug: Donut and bolster styles from cat beds keep heat close and help your cat feel secure.
  • Extra cozy: Add steady warmth with heated cat beds or slip a heated pad under a favorite blanket.
  • Cord-free warmth: self-warming beds and pads reflect body heat for easy comfort.
  • Burrowers: cat caves and covered beds create a private den that blocks drafts.
  • Window watchers: window perches and hammocks turn a sunny spot into a warm seat.

Do cats need heated beds in winter?

Not every cat needs added heat. Many love gentle warmth in cool rooms or on tile floors. A heated bed or pad offers consistent comfort when used as directed, especially near windows, doors, or in chilly basements and sunrooms.

Heated cat beds and heated pads for cats

Heated styles use low, steady warmth made for pets. They help your cat relax faster and sleep longer when temperatures dip.

Why choose heat

  • Consistent comfort that helps your cat settle on cold days.
  • Flexible setups with full beds or slim pads that layer into spots your cat already loves.
  • Season ready so you can plug in for winter and switch off when your home warms up.

How to set up

  • Place flat in a quiet, draft-free corner.
  • Route cords along a wall or behind furniture.
  • Check covers and cords during regular cleaning and follow all instructions.
Safety note: Never use human heating pads for pets.
Human heating pads can get far too hot for a cat’s skin and are not designed for long, unattended use. They can cause burns, overheating, or electrical hazards when used with pets. Always choose pet-specific heated beds or pads, which provide low, steady warmth and include built-in safety features designed for animals.

Self-warming cat beds and pads

Self-warming beds use thermal materials to reflect body heat back to your cat. They add warmth without a cord.
When they shine:
  • You want a portable option for a sofa, carrier, or sunny sill.
  • Your cat prefers one favorite perch and just needs a warmer surface.
  • You live in a small space and want warmth you can move room to room.

Cat caves and covered cat beds

Cat caves and covered beds create a den-like space that holds heat and helps your cat feel secure. They also give your cat personal space in a busy home.
Benefits:
  • Privacy for multi-pet homes. A cozy hideaway lets your cat retreat, reset, and watch the room on their terms.
  • Warmth that lasts. Enclosed shapes trap body heat and block drafts from doors and vents.
  • Comfort for shy cats. A dark, quiet nook reduces stimulation and invites deeper, longer naps.

Donut, bolster, and orthopedic cat beds

Match the bed to your cat’s sleep style and support needs.
  • Donut and bolster beds. Raised sides cradle the body and help retain heat. Many cats rest their head on the bolster while they lounge.
  • Orthopedic and memory foam beds. Supportive foam cushions pressure points for adult and senior cats. Low entry fronts make getting in and out easier.
  • Loungers and mats. Wide, padded surfaces suit stretchers and bonded pairs that like to sprawl together.

Window perches and hammocks for cats

Window seats and hammocks turn a sunny pane into a warm, elevated nap zone.
  • Sun-powered comfort. Daytime sun helps keep the surface warm without a cord.
  • Great for bird watching. Elevation gives your cat a view and a safe, dedicated spot.
  • Small-space friendly. Perches free floor space and pair well with a soft pad or blanket.

What size cat bed do I need?

Pick a size that matches how your cat sleeps most of the time.
  • Curlers: Choose a snug bed so the sides touch your cat when curled up. This helps hold warmth and feels secure.
  • Stretchers: Size up for a full-body sprawl without hanging paws.
  • Two-cat households: A larger bolster, lounger, or wide window perch gives room to share without losing heat.
Measure your cat from nose to base of tail when relaxed. Add two to four inches for a comfortable fit.

Where should I put a cat bed?

Location drives daily use. Set the bed where your cat already naps and keep the spot inviting.
  • Avoid drafts near doors and floor vents.
  • Try sunny windows by day and a quiet corner at night.
  • Offer a choice. Place one bed in a social space and another in a tucked-away nook.
  • Keep any corded products flat on the floor with cords tucked safely out of reach.

Are heated cat beds safe for kittens and senior cats?

Choose pet-specific products and follow the instructions. Supervise kittens that may chew cords. Seniors often prefer low entry fronts, supportive foam, and gentle warmth. If you have safety questions, talk with your veterinarian.

Care and cleaning tips for cat beds

Clean beds help your cat settle and keep your home fresh.
  • Wash removable covers on a regular schedule using a pet-safe detergent.
  • Wipe heated pads with a damp cloth and let them dry fully before use.
  • Shake out loose hair between washes to keep fabrics fluffy and warm.
  • Replace beds that have flattened padding, torn seams, or worn cords.

Why Shop at PetSmart?

When you shop at PetSmart, you’re getting trusted brands, quality products, and great service, just at even better prices. Plus, it’s easy to shop your way:
  • Free same-day delivery in select areas
  • Curbside pickup and convenient in-store shopping
  • Earn PetSmart Treats™ Rewards points on every eligible purchase
Whether you’re stocking up or trying something new, PetSmart makes it simple to care for your pets (and your wallet).

FAQs

How do I get my cat to use a new bed? 

Place it where your cat already naps. Add a blanket or pillow that smells like home. Sprinkle a few treats or a pinch of catnip the first day. Give your cat time. Many cats try a new bed after a few quiet introductions.

Can I leave a heated cat bed on all day? 

Use heated products as directed by the manufacturer. Most are designed for steady, low warmth. Check cords during regular cleaning. Unplug if the bed is damaged or if your cat chews cords.

Can I put a cat bed in a carrier or crate? 

Yes. Choose a low-profile pad or mat that fits snugly so it will not bunch up. For travel, pick machine-washable fabrics. Avoid loose blankets that can shift and block airflow.

Do window perches really stay up for bigger cats? 

Follow the weight rating and installation steps. Clean the glass before using suction cups. Press firmly and test the hold before your cat jumps up. For hardware-mounted styles, use the included screws and anchors.

When should I replace a cat bed? 

Swap it out when padding stays flat, seams tear, or covers no longer wash clean. Replace heated items if the cord or cover shows wear. A fresh, supportive bed helps your cat settle and stay warm.

Need other cat supplies while you’re shopping for heated cat beds? PetSmart also carries cat food, cat litter, litter boxes, cat toys, cat beds & furniture, cat flea & tick treatments and much more. Explore PetSmart’s Cat Shop to find everything your cat needs, all in one place.
PetSmart offers convenient shopping with Curbside Pickup or in-store pickup. Need something today? We have select items available for Same-Day Delivery in most areas powered by DoorDash. For items you purchase frequently, PetSmart has Autoship that automatically delivers the items you want to your door as often as you’d like. Check the website to see which items are eligible.
Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.

In this Article

Related articles