How To Pick Comfy Cat Beds
The best way to get a cat to stop doing something you don't want it to is to give it an irresistible alternative. So if you're goal is to get your cat to stop sleeping on the sofa or the overstuffed chairs, then the answer probably lies in giving it a cozy, enticing cat bed. Cats sleep up to 16 hours a day and they are creatures of comfort. Placing several cat beds in strategic sun spots and may be the best thing you'll ever do for your furniture.
There are so many different types and styles of cat beds that finding one that blends with your décor should not be too hard. You can look for colorful cat beds in fun pet prints that add a touch of whimsy to the room or you can shop for cat beds with plenty of designer elegance, instead. Of course, your cat will be more concerned with how the bed feels than what it looks like.
Cat beds often have fleece pillows to keep them feeling cozy. These beds may be oval shaped with high sides or they may actually be completely enclosed to form a cozy nest bed. Cats enjoy being able to snuggle up in a secure spot, which is why so many of them manage to squeeze inside sofas or other odd spots to nap.
Some nest beds are even heated to add more warmth. If you have a cat that spends time on the porch or in other chilly areas, you may want to consider providing him with one of these beds.
If your cat is committed to the couch, try putting down a nap mat. It will keep the cushions clean of cat hair and when company comes you can roll it up and put it away. A little cat nip on the mat, might keep your cat where you want him.
A cat perch, which is a padded shelf, is another popular piece of napping equipment. Attach the cat perch to your windowsill so your cat can look out the window and dream of stalking the wild birds he sees as he naps.
When you buy a cat bed, don't be surprised if your cat ignores it completely for a while. If he refuses to explore the bed, you may want to add a catnip toy to the bed to attract his attention. Placing the bed in a cat friendly location will also make it more appealing to your cat. Cats do not care to nap in low places. Instead, position the cat bed on an end table or platform that is a few inches off the floor. Also, be sure the bed is not in an area that receives heavy traffic. If your cat feels as though he can never let down his guard and relax, he won't want to nap in his bed.
Cat condos, vertical carpeted structures designed for cats, are perfect if you have more than one cat or don't want a lot of cat beds throughout your house. Cats are natural climbers and seem to recognize the condo as their terrain. The perches and dens make perfect napping spots and the carpeted poles are designed for scratching.
About the Author
For more info, see Cat Tips at: http://www.new-cat.com and Cat Health at: http://www.new-cat.com/Cat_Health.php
Ron King is a webdeveloper; visit his Authoring Articles website at http://www.ronxking.com.
Copyright 2007 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.
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