When Is It Time to Swap Out That Ragged Old Cat Bed?

 

As cat owners, we want to provide the best for our feline friends. That includes getting them the best cat accessories like beds that are comfy and durable. 

As cat owners, we want to provide the best for our feline friends. That includes getting them the best cat accessories like beds that are comfy and durable. 

But at some point, even the best cat bed reaches the end of its usable life. Read on to learn when it's time to swap out that ragged old cat bed for a new one.

Signs Your Cat's Bed Needs Replacing

How do you know when your cat's faithful bed has gone from comforting to unacceptable? Watch for these signs that a new cat bed is needed:

• Visible wear and tear - Scratched material, ripped seams, flattened cushion areas, and stained fabric mean the bed's seen better days. If the filling is coming out or the base looks like it will collapse, it's time for a replacement.
• Odor issues - Even with cleaning, some beds retain smells over time. If a kitty's bed has a funky odor that won't come out, toss it.
• Smaller size - Kittens grow up fast. If your cat seems cramped trying to lie down, their tiny kitten bed is now too tiny.
• Disinterest - If your cat suddenly shuns their bed in favor of the couch or floor, take the hint. Cats vote with their paws.

Pay attention to these clues that you need to provide a fresh, clean bed your cat will enjoy again. Don't wait until they resort to sleeping in the litter box!

When Should You Replace Cat Beds?

As a general rule, plan to swap your cat's bed every 1-2 years. For kittens and senior cats, err on the side of more frequent replacements. 

Growing kittens need bigger cat beds as they mature in their first year. Older cats with arthritis benefit from fresh orthopedic beds.

Consider replacing cat beds when:

• Kittens outgrow them
• Seniors need fresh orthopedic support
• The beds look extremely worn
• Odors or stains won't come out
• Cats avoid using their beds

When you spot these triggers, start shopping for cat beds so you have a good replacement ready. 

Discard very dirty beds as they await trash day to encourage using the new ones. Why wait for your cat's bed to completely fall apart? At the first signs of needed replacement, take action.

Choosing the Best Replacement Cat Bed

With so many choices out there, how do you select the best cat bed to replace the worn-out eyesore? Here are top tips for picking the perfect new bed:

• Observe your cat's preferences - Note where they sleep around your home and their favorite type of surface. This provides clues to the ideal replacement. Do they prefer plush corners, enclosed hideaways, or hammock styles? Buy accordingly.
• Consider health factors - Older or disabled cats may need orthopedic foam or stairs/ramps. Check with your vet on therapeutic beds to ease arthritis, injuries, or mobility issues.
• Match bed size to cat size - Get measurements of curled-up length and width. Size up about 10 inches longer than your cat end-to-end. Proper dimensions let them stretch out.
• Mind the materials - Avoid beds with harsh chemicals or dyes. CertiPUR foam, organic materials, and dyes safe for young kittens top the safety list.
• Check reviews - See what actual customers say about comfort, durability, cleaning ease, and more. Why guess when you can tap into other cat parents' experiences?

While your cat may resist change at first, taking these steps helps you transition them to a fantastic new bed they'll enjoy for years.

Out With the Old, In With the New

Saying goodbye to the cherished cat bed your kitty has loved for years can feel bittersweet. 

But paying attention to signs that replacement time has come ultimately provides for their health and happiness. 

Plus, discovering which new bed becomes their next favorite napping sanctuary brings you both joy.

Ragged, dirty cat beds spread germs and don't properly support joint health - especially for senior cats. 

So swap it out for one of the best cat accessories that promotes healthy rest. Here's to many more cozy, purr-filled cat naps in a fabulous new bed!