by K. W. Callahan

Created on: February 09, 2009   Last Updated: September 02, 2009

Since the days of Cleopatra, we have faithfully honored the feline species. And in the cat's opinion, rightly so. They expect nothing less than the best, and yes, we give it to them. So it seems only right and fair that one day we find ourselves debating which type of bed is right for our finicky friend. Not too large, not too small, not too hard, not too soft...we're looking for something that's just right. But it's not that simple.

FINDING THE RIGHT BED

It can be maddening trying to select the proper sleeping aid for our cat. But the decision really lies within dear putty-tat himself. What type of cat is he? Can he sleep anywhere and on anything, or does he need a plush pillow-filled pleasure palace? Is your cat a bit of a tubby tabby or a slim and trim tomcat? Is he still a kitten or a cat of age? These are the initial questions one must ask himself before heading out to shop for beds. If you're not sure, start with cheap cat beds and work your way up. Some of the more simple cushioned beds can be bought for less than twenty dollars. It would be a waste of money to spend two-hundred dollars on a high-end heated cat chaise only to discover your cat turns his nose up at it, instead preferring to wile his days away resting atop the pile of papers on your desk.

COZY COMFORT vs. SIZEABLE SLEEPERS

* Small Spaces: Some cats prefer to sleep in tight spaces. In these cases, small cave-like beds or cubbies might be the preferred fit. There are also fur-lined sleeping sacks, somewhat akin to human sleeping bags, which can be put to good use for this type of cat. Bear in mind though, with cats of larger sizes these beds can be constrictive. You don't want to come home one day and find your best friend wedged inside the bag and yowling to escape.

* Open Areas: Other cats need large areas to roll, stretch and bask in the sun. If this is the case, consider cat pads, cushioned slumber balls, or window sleepers. These options can also be beneficial to larger or older cats that might have trouble entering tight spaces.

SPECIALTY BEDS

Fancy beds abound inside the cat bed market. In many cases, one can find a cat asleep almost anywhere - the top of a radiator, among some books on the shelf, or hidden away in a closet among a pile of clothes. By these standards, it would seem that any actual bed specifically built for a cat could be considered "fancy". Some cases are taken to the extreme though. Here are but a few.

* Wicker Cat Beds: A wicker bed can add that stylish presence to your home while providing your cat a leisurely place to sleep. The classic look of woven wicker will look good with almost any decor and can blend in among other furnishings.

* Chaises and Miniature Sofas: Often supported by actual wood frames, and upholstered with high-grade fabric, these are the elite of cat sleepers. Many offer sleek patterns, including leopard print and zebra strip, and some even come with a matching pillow. Ooo la la! These options are cute, comfy, and make great conversation pieces.

* Thermo Mats and Beds: These heated cat beds often come with removable heat pads to keep your cat extra warm. Most also have removable covers for cleaning, and make for a warm and cozy spot for kitty to snooze.

Thermo mats can be found for under forty dollars, but most specialty beds will easily cost a hundred dollars or more. Many of these fancy beds also claim to be made with fire-retardant foam, which is particularly appealing to the cat who enjoys an occasional cigarette in bed.

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