Providing a heated cat bed for a cat improves both the health and the mood of the pet. Owners looking into purchasing a new cat bed should consider the benefits of seeking out a bed with heating properties.
Cats and Heat
When falling asleep, cats often curl into
balls or cuddle against other pets or their owners. The objective of
either position is to retain optimal body heat. A heated cat bed helps
the cat achieve this goal, and is especially important for the lone
cat, the aging cat, the ill cat and the outdoor cat.
Managing Pain
A heated cat bed can soothe sore muscles, combat arthritis in weak joints and release tension. Older cats are especially susceptible to arthritis and sore muscles from the wear and tear of old age. Heated beds help older cats feel less pain.
Preventing and Fighting Illnesses
Long-time exposure to low temperatures and harsh winds can decrease a
cat's immune system, making it more susceptible to catching feline
colds and other illnesses. Having access to a heated bed - especially
if the cat lives primarily outdoors, in which case the owner can
provide a bed in a garage or shed - can help the cat boost its immune
system. Cats who are already ill need to keep warm and relaxed in order
to combat their viruses and encourage the body to heal. Improving Temperament
Cats who are cold and uncomfortable may
whine, paw and scratch at the door and howl for attention until they
are let into a warmer environment. Providing cats both indoors and out
with a heated cat bed can make them more comfortably fall asleep, even
in chilly temperatures. The warmth of the bed also echoes the warmth a
cat can get from another animal or a human, and makes it feel more
relaxed and less alone.
Types of Heated Beds
Owners have a variety of options when it
comes to purchasing beds with heating properties. The three most common
of these beds are:
- Microwavable pads: Some beds include removable microwavable pads filled with material such as buckwheat, which can retain heat for about thirty minutes to an hour. Because of the short heating period, these are not ideal, but they are the least expensive.
- Thermal beds: These beds are normal temperature to the touch at first, but use insulating material to reflect the body heat of the cat back to the pet after a few minutes. These beds are cheaper than other types of beds with heat, and work nearly as well at keeping the cat warm.
- Electric beds: With a pet-safe electrical cord, these beds are plugged in and release steady, immediate heat at all times. These are the best and priciest in heated beds.
A heated cat bed can help soothe a cat's pain, boost its immune system, keep it warm during cold winter nights and improve its mood. Although a bit more expensive than a traditional cat bed, one with heating properties offers enough benefits to justify the extra expense.