How to Choose the Right Cat Bed: A Buyer's Guide

Choose a cat bed by matching four things: your cat's size, how they sleep, the shape of the bed and the material. Pick a bed big enough for your cat to curl up or stretch out, in a shape that suits their favourite sleeping position, made from a breathable natural material such as wool.

Updated October 2026

A cat bed is not a one-size-fits-all purchase. Cats are particular about where and how they sleep. A bed one cat loves can be ignored by another.

This guide helps you choose a cat bed your cat will actually use.

Quick guide: which cat bed suits your cat?

If your cat… Look for
curls up in a tight ball A snug, rounded bed or a cave
stretches out or sprawls A larger bed with room to move
hides or sleeps best undisturbed A covered cave
likes to watch the room A raised bed with a view
is a large breed, or you have more than one cat A large bed with extra space

1. Start with your cat's size

A bed should hold your cat comfortably, not just fit them.

Too small, and your cat spills over the edges and may skip it. Many cats prefer a snug fit when they curl up, so a bed that is much too large can feel less cosy.

Watch how your cat sleeps. Note how much space they take when curled up and when stretched out. Choose a bed that fits the curled-up position with a little room to spare. If your cat mostly stretches out, size up.

Large breeds such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls, and cats that like to share, need more space. The Graded Cassius Cat Cave – Large is made for exactly this.

Buying for a kitten? Kittens grow fast. If you want one bed to last, choose for their expected adult size.

2. Look at how your cat sleeps

Your cat already shows you what they want. Start with where they sleep today.

  • Curlers sleep in a tight ball. A snug, rounded bed or cave suits them.
  • Stretchers sleep flat on their side or back. They need more room.
  • Hiders choose covered, quiet spots. A cave gives them a place to disappear.
  • Watchers like to rest with an overview. A raised bed gives them a vantage point.

Many cats also seek out warm spots, especially in colder months. Think about where in your home the bed will sit.

3. Choose the right shape

Shape decides how secure and how open the bed feels.

4. Pick the right material

Cats spend much of the day asleep, so the material matters.

Wool is breathable and naturally temperature regulating. It also has a mild, neutral scent. Read more in our guide to why cats like wool.

Cotton macramé, steel and FSC-certified acacia make up the Stan Cat Bed. A hand-knotted basket sits on a lacquered steel frame and a solid wood base.

Purely synthetic materials are usually less breathable. Whatever you choose, check these things:

  • what the bed is made from
  • how it is made
  • how it is cleaned and cared for
  • whether it has a strong smell

A bed your cat loves is used every day. It should be easy to keep fresh.

Our cat beds at a glance

Bed Material Good for
Cassius Cat Cave – Medium 100% natural wool, hand-felted Cats that hide or curl up
Graded Cassius Cat Cave – Large 100% natural wool, hand-felted Large breeds and shared beds
Misty Cat Bed 100% natural wool, handmade A soft, durable everyday bed
Bubble Bed 100% natural wool, hand-stitched Cats that like a soft, supportive spot
Stan Cat Bed Cotton macramé, steel, FSC acacia Cats that rest up high with an overview

Want a bed and toys together? See the Signature Kit and the Essential Kit.

Where to place the bed

Put it where your cat already likes to rest. A quiet corner, a favourite window or a spot with a good view works well.

Add a familiar blanket and give your cat time. Our guide to wool cat beds has tips on how to introduce a new bed.

Common mistakes when buying a cat bed

  • Choosing by looks alone. Design matters, but your cat's habits come first.
  • Ignoring how your cat sleeps. A cave for a stretcher, or an open bed for a hider, often goes unused.
  • Buying the wrong size. Too small is uncomfortable. Too large can feel less secure.
  • Placing it in a noisy spot. Cats rest best where it is calm.
  • Giving up too early. Cats can take time to accept a new bed.

Frequently asked questions

How big should a cat bed be?

Big enough for your cat to lie in their usual sleeping position. For curlers, a snug bed works well. For stretchers, choose a larger one. Large breeds and shared beds need extra space.

Do cats prefer covered or open beds?

It depends on the cat. Many cats like covered spaces where they feel hidden and safe. Others prefer to see the room. Watch where yours sleeps now.

What is the best material for a cat bed?

Natural, breathable materials such as wool are a good choice. Wool is naturally temperature regulating and breathable. Choose a material that suits your cat and is easy to keep clean.

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

Place it where your cat already rests, add a familiar blanket and let them explore at their own pace. Some cats need a few days.

Should I buy more than one bed?

Many cats like a few resting spots, for example one in a warm room and one with a view. Start with one and see where your cat spends time.

In short

  • Size: room to curl up or stretch out.
  • Sleeping style: match the bed to how your cat rests.
  • Shape: cave, nest or raised bed.
  • Material: breathable and easy to keep fresh.

At Tail Living, we design cat beds in natural materials, made to fit both your cat and your home.

Explore our cat beds

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