Cats sleep between 12–16 hours a day — so investing in the right cat bed in Australia is one of the best things you can do for your feline’s wellbeing. The perfect cat bed is about more than just comfort; it needs to suit your cat’s personality, sleeping style, and the temperature of your home. Here’s everything you need to know.
Do Cats Actually Use Their Beds?
You’ve probably heard the joke that you buy a cat bed and they sleep in the box instead. The trick is placing the bed in the right location and choosing the right style. Cats have specific preferences, and once you nail the right bed in the right spot, most cats will use it consistently.
Types of Cat Beds
Cushion & Mat Beds
Flat, padded mats are versatile and suit cats that like to stretch out. They can be placed anywhere — on the floor, on a sofa, in a cat tree — and are easy to wash. Great for warm-weather sleeping or cats that get hot easily. Browse our cat bed range for cushion options.
Cave & Hooded Beds
For cats that love to burrow and feel enclosed — a very common preference — a cave or hooded bed provides a safe, dark, cosy retreat. Anxious cats and those that hide often feel most secure in a cave-style bed. These are especially popular in winter as the enclosed design retains body heat.
Donut & Bolster Beds
Raised edges give cats something to rest their chin or paws on — many cats adore sleeping with their head propped up on a ledge. The circular design also allows cats to curl up in their favourite “crescent” sleeping position.
Window Perches
Cats are natural observers. A window perch mounts to a glass pane (usually with suction cups) and gives your cat a sunny lookout spot — watching birds, traffic, and the world outside. These are fantastic for indoor cats that need environmental enrichment. Check our cat furniture range for perch options.
Cat Trees with Built-In Beds
Multi-level cat trees combine scratching posts, perches, hideaways and sleeping platforms into one piece of furniture. They’re ideal for homes with multiple cats, as different cats can claim different levels. A cat tree is genuinely one of the best investments for indoor cats — it provides exercise, enrichment, and sleeping spots in one.
Where to Place a Cat Bed
Location is everything with cats. Try these placements:
- Near a sunny window — cats are thermophiles (heat-seekers) and love warmth
- In a quiet corner — away from household traffic for cats that need peace
- At height — cats feel safest when elevated; placing a bed on a shelf or cat tree works well
- Near where you spend time — social cats prefer to sleep near their human companions
- Away from the litter box and food bowls — cats won’t sleep near their elimination area
Choosing the Right Cat Bed for Your Cat’s Personality
The Burrower
If your cat disappears under blankets and hides in enclosed spaces — a cave bed is perfect. The enclosed design mimics the dens cats seek out in nature.
The Sprawler
If your cat stretches out on their back or side when sleeping — choose a large, flat cushion mat. They need room to fully extend.
The Percher
If your cat always heads for the highest point in the room — invest in an elevated cat tree with sleeping platforms or a wall-mounted perch.
The Curler
If your cat always curls into a tight ball — a donut or bolster bed with raised sides will feel perfect.
Washing and Maintaining Cat Beds
- Wash cat bed covers every 1–2 weeks — cat hair, dander and tracked litter accumulate quickly
- Use unscented detergent — strong fragrances can deter cats from using their bed
- Air dry in the sun when possible — UV light naturally kills bacteria and removes odours
- Sprinkle a little catnip on a new bed to encourage your cat to use it
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my cat use their new bed?
Cats are suspicious of new items. Try placing the bed where your cat already sleeps, adding one of your worn T-shirts for familiar scent, or sprinkling catnip on the bed. Most cats come around within a week.
What size cat bed do I need?
For cushion or flat beds, measure your cat from nose to tail when they’re fully stretched — the bed should be at least this length. For cave or donut beds, your cat should be able to curl comfortably inside without being cramped.
What’s the best cat bed for winter in Australia?
A cave or hooded bed lined with fleece is the warmest option for winter. The enclosed design traps body heat effectively. For extra warmth, place the bed off the floor and away from draughts.
Shop Cat Beds in Australia
Browse our full range of cat beds and furniture online at Pets Hub Online — from plush cushions to cave beds, window perches and cat trees. All delivered free Australia-wide. Also explore our complete cat supplies range for everything your cat needs.