10 Heated Cat Beds to Help Your Feline Feel Warm This Winter
Because your cat deserves to be cosy, too
At the wise age of five years old, our cat Kiki is 80 percent fur and 20 percent healthy fat, so he’s not as sensitive to the cold as other felines might be. Nonetheless, he’s still a cat and loves to be cosy, which means that, unless a satisfactory napping arrangement is provided, he will find the most expensive jumper or bed throw available to cuddle up in and possibly knead for hours on end.
As a big fluffy cat, a self-heating bed that uses his own warmth to heat up the napping space is enough to make him feel toasty, but skinnier and less furry cats might need the little additional help provided by electric heated cat beds.
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As he gets older, we have noticed that he loves spending time outside at all hours, including some middle-of-the-night outings, so an outdoor heated home will have to be set up for him soon.
It’s usually the other way around, as kittens are often more adventurous while older cats love to stay home and sleep, but he clearly isn’t a typical cat. When he was still a kitten, he couldn’t wait to curl up as close as possible to the fire, and a radiator bed seemed the ultimate haven, but his needs have changed, and so have his beds.
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No matter what kind of cat you are shopping for, we have rounded up the best heated cat beds on the market, from pressure-activated pads to cosy igloos.
Our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
The top 10 Kinship-reviewed heated cat beds
Best self-warming mat: Mora Pets Self Heating Cat Bed
Best electric heated mat
Best for outdoor cats
Best radiator hanging cat bed
Best budget-friendly heated cat bed
Best pressure-activated heated cat bed
Best electric heated cat bed
Best self-heated cat bed
Best microwavable heating pad for cats
Best heated bed for older cats
How to choose the heated cat bed that is right for your cat
What types of heated cat beds are available?
There are four types of heated cat beds. Electric heated cat beds use electricity and a thermostat to keep a steady temperature; self-warming heated beds use the same principle as emergency blankets and use the cat’s body heat to warm up the space; microwavable heated beds work like a hot water bottle, the pads are warmed in the microwave and stay hot for a certain amount of time to warm up the space. Lastly, radiator beds can be hung on your radiator and use its warmth to keep your cat cosy.
What size heated cat bed do I need for my cat?
The correct size of the heated cat bed depends on your cat’s size. Measure your feline friend and make sure you purchase a bed that they can be comfortable in, curled up, but also sprawl and stretch if they want to. If you have multiple cats that usually sleep together, a big bed is a must.
Are heated cat beds safe for cats?
Yes, but make sure you always check the product for instructions when using an electric cat bed. Heated beds use low-wattage heating and thermostats to prevent overheating, but always make sure the cables are intact and choose chew-resistant designs. Self-warming and microwave options avoid electrical risk.
How much does a heated cat bed cost in the UK?
You can buy self-warming and microwavable beds for as low as £10, while the more sophisticated, electricity-powered beds can cost over £100. In general, there are many options on the market for every budget.
The 10 best heated cat beds
Best self-warming mat
Frequently asked questions: heated cat beds
Do cats actually use heated beds?
Yes! Cats love to be warm, so they naturally curl up in cosy, heated spaces, which is why we often find them on our beds, next to radiators or lounging in direct sun. This is particularly true with older, thin, or arthritic cats who struggle to maintain body heat.
How long do heated cat beds last?
Like any product, a heated cat bed will last longer if it is cared for, but, as a general rule, they should all last several years, with a minimum of two years on average. Electric cat beds might need some parts replaced after a few years, but they can last a long time when used properly.
Can I leave a heated cat bed on all night?
Yes, you should be able to leave a heated cat bed on, but make sure you always read the instructions. Electricity-powered objects always carry a risk, though, when not checked. Make sure the heated bed cords are intact, and the bed is not overheating for peace of mind and ensure your cat isn’t locked away (in a room for example) and is able to freely move away from the bed if necessary. In doubt, always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
What’s the difference between self-warming and electric heated cat beds?
Self-warming heated beds work similarly to emergency blankets, using your cat’s body heat to produce warmth. Electric heated cat beds use a thermostat to generate heat and can be regulated, so you can control the temperature, which is particularly handy in very cold climates or when your cat needs a bit of help staying warm.
Are heated cat beds expensive to run?
Electric heated cat beds use electricity to heat, so, like any other heating device, they have a small operating cost. That said, modern models are extremely low wattage and not expensive to run, so they won’t make a big difference in your electricity bill. If you want something completely free to run, self-warming beds are a better option.
