Cats have a knack for finding the most unexpected places to nap. Any cat owner knows they can be found soaking up the sun on a windowsill, tucked away in a cozy wardrobe corner, or sprawled out along the arm of the sofa.
So, where should you put your cat’s bed?
Since cats like to change their resting spots and each location serves a different purpose, we’ve rounded up a few vet-approved places to set up your cat’s bed. We’ll also share tips to help your feline actually use it, explain why they choose certain spots, and discuss whether it’s okay to let your cat sleep in your bed.
The 5 Best Places to Put a Cat Bed
1. Your Cat’s Favorite Napping Spot
One of the easiest ways to get your cat to use their bed—whether it’s a tunnel bed or a cozy cushion—is to place it where they already love to nap. Pay attention to your cat’s go-to sleeping spots and start there. Cats are creatures of habit and often stick to their preferred places, even when a plush new bed is available elsewhere. If your kitty seems unsure about the new bed, try sprinkling a little catnip on it or leaving a few treats inside to make it more inviting.
2. A Quiet, Peaceful Area
While cats enjoy being near their humans, they also value peace and privacy—especially in a noisy or busy household. Setting up their bed in a calm, low-traffic area helps them feel safe and relaxed. Bedrooms often make great daytime nap zones since they’re quieter when not in use. Alternatively, a cozy corner of your home office or kitchen can be perfect for those long, lazy afternoon naps.
Near Your Cat’s Favorite Furniture
Cats love being close to their humans and often choose nap spots that keep them near you. If you’re watching TV, your cat might curl up beside you on the sofa; if you’re working, they may sprawl across your desk or chair. To make their bed more inviting, place it near where you spend most of your time—next to your couch, beside your bed, or in a cozy corner of your workspace. If you have enough desk space, tuck their bed in a spot that doesn’t get in your way. Your cat will appreciate being close while still having a comfortable space of their own.
4. On or Inside Cat Furniture
Many cats adore their cat trees, condos, and perches. These spots offer both comfort and a sense of security. Try placing your cat’s bed on or inside their favorite piece of cat furniture—it can make the bed instantly more appealing. Adding a soft blanket or a bit of your cat’s scent can make it even cozier and more familiar.
Elevated Spots
Cats naturally enjoy high vantage points where they can safely observe their surroundings. When choosing a place for your cat’s bed, consider elevated areas instead of the floor. Great options include the top of a wardrobe, the back of a couch, or a sunny windowsill. These spots not only satisfy your cat’s love of height but also provide warmth and a sense of security—perfect for a peaceful nap.
Our Favorite Cat Bed
Finding the perfect bed for your cat starts with paying attention to where and how they like to sleep. Every cat has unique comfort preferences—some love to curl up in cozy corners, while others sprawl out in sunny spots. Considering your cat’s favorite resting places, nap duration, and comfort needs is key to choosing the purrfect bed.
After plenty of research and testing, our top pick for practicality, comfort, and modern design is the Cat Tunnel Bed.
The Best Cat Tunnel Bed
Cat Tunnel Bed
Your cat’s new favorite nap & play spot!
- 💤 2-in-1 — Tunnel + cozy bed
- 🌡️ Self-warming fleece for extra comfort
- Portable & stylish — fits any room
Cats can be notoriously picky about where they sleep, which makes choosing the right bed a challenge for many pet parents. The Cat Tunnel Bed was designed with both comfort and style in mind. Its bowl-shaped structure gently cradles your cat, while the self-warming fleece insert provides a soft, cozy surface that many cats can’t resist. One of the best features of this bed is its portability you can easily move it around so your cat can enjoy a comfortable nap wherever they choose to snooze.
How to Encourage Your Cat to Use Their Bed
If your cat’s brand-new bed is sitting untouched in the corner, don’t worry you’re not alone! Here are some tried-and-true tips to help your kitty fall in love with their new sleeping spot.
1. Make the Bed Inviting
Sprinkle a little catnip or place your cat’s favorite treats on the bed to spark their curiosity. Catnip can encourage your kitty to roll, play, and relax on the bed, helping them associate it with fun and comfort. You can also add familiar scents like your cat’s favorite blanket or an old T-shirt of yours—to make the bed feel safe and soothing.
2. Choose the Right Type of Bed
Observe how your cat prefers to sleep:
- If your cat curls up in a tight ball, a small, round cat tunnel bed with raised sides is ideal it helps retain warmth and provides a sense of security.
- If your cat hides under furniture, a cave-style bed that mimics a cozy den will make them feel protected.
- For cats that love to stretch out, opt for a rectangular or flat bed that gives them plenty of room to sprawl.
3. Keep It Cozy and Comfortable
Temperature matters! Avoid placing your cat’s bed in drafty areas or directly beside heaters. The goal is a warm but breathable spot where your cat can nap undisturbed.
4. Make Other Areas Less Appealing
If your cat insists on sleeping in unwanted places, you can gently discourage them by using natural deterrents. Spray the area with a diluted mix of apple cider vinegar and water or a citrus-based spray—cats dislike these scents. You can also cover the area with aluminum foil or use pet gates or barriers to redirect them to their own bed.
Why Cats Change Sleeping Spots
Cats constantly seek comfort and security, which explains their ever-changing choice of nap spots. A soft blanket might remind them of the warmth and safety they experienced as kittens, which is why they often curl up in your clothes or bedding.
You might even find your cat snoozing in the bathroom sink—the cool porcelain helps regulate their temperature, especially on warm days. This behavior is perfectly natural. Cats instinctively rotate sleeping areas to stay safe and comfortable and to balance their body temperature. When the sunny windowsill becomes too warm, the cool sink suddenly seems like the perfect place to nap.
Can My Cat Sleep in My Bed?
For many cat owners, sharing the bed with their feline friend is one of life’s simple joys. Studies show that nearly 50% of Americans allow their cats to sleep in bed with them.
There are definite perks cats provide warmth, companionship, and stress relief—but there are also a few downsides to consider. Cats are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk, so you might find your sleep interrupted by playful pounces or paw taps. Additionally, allergies to dander or flea concerns can make co-sleeping less ideal for some people.
If your cat’s nighttime antics disturb your sleep, try placing their bed near yours. This lets your kitty stay close without disrupting your rest.
Conclusion
Cats can be mysterious and unpredictable, but understanding their sleeping habits can help you create a more comfortable and loving home. There’s no single “perfect” spot for your cat’s bed offering a few cozy options throughout your home gives them the freedom to choose where they feel most secure.
At the end of the day, the best gift you can give your cat is a safe, stable, and affectionate environment and the rest will fall into place (along with a few cat naps, of course).hoos