Beds

Just like humans, our pets need somewhere comfortable and safe where they can go to have a snooze. Their very own bed will also give your pet somewhere to sleep at night, instead of curled up at your feet or around your head!

There are many different types of pet beds available and as a rule of thumb, you should have at least one bed per bed, or one bedding area. Pet beds are available in many areas such as pet stores, department stores, hardware stores and online. This means that you should be able to find a bed that both you and your pet love! Once you’ve bought the bed, it is a good idea to place it in an out of the way place where your pet can still easily see all family members. This will make it feel secure and alleviate any anxiety they may feel when they wake up and can’t see you. Placing it near a window is also good as your pet will be able to see out at the world while they are resting

Types of Pet Beds

When it comes to choosing a comfy bed for your beloved pet to sleep on, there are many different options. Some of the most common include:

• Designer Beds -- these are great for your pampered pet and they come in a dizzying array of colours, styles and patterns. You can even find ones that look like mini four poster beds! These are the top of the range in pet beds and the most expensive option.
• Water Beds -- just like there are water beds for humans, you can find water beds for your pets. These are great for giving your pet that extra level of comfort.
• Orthopaedic Beds -- if your pet is getting on in age a little, if it is recovering from an illness or an accident, or if it has arthritis, you may want to get them one of these beds. They give extra support and comfort where it is needed.
• Heated Beds -- these use a heating pad (that you heat in the microwave) to provide warm and snugly surface for your pet to sleep upon. They are very safe generally but you should never get an electrically powered heated bed in case your pet accidentally soils themselves or chews through the cord.
• Cushions and Pillows -- again, these are available in a huge range of styles, colours and sizes so they are suited for small pets right through to the largest.
• Raised Beds -- these are raised off the ground so your pet doesn’t feel any chill coming from the floor. They have a hessian or shade cloth sort of material that is very easy to clean and you can place a cushion or pillow on top to give your pet extra comfort.
• Igloos -- these are totally enclosed beds that have an opening for your pet to get into an out of. They are great if your pet needs somewhere secluded and safe to go to sleep.
• Baskets -- basket beds are great for cats and smaller breeds of dogs and they are lined and have a cushion inside for comfort.
• Hammocks -- pet hammocks can be placed wherever you need them and are often part of cat scratching posts. They are great not only for cats but for rats, mice, small dogs and other smaller pets.

Choosing a Pet Bed

When you are choosing a pet bed or bedding there are some things that you need to take into consideration. Firstly, you need to consider how easy it is to clean the bed. For example, does it have a cover that you can take off and throw in the washing machine, or better yet, can the whole bed be thrown in the machine? If it is an outdoor bed, can it be hosed down? If it is bedding for a smaller animal such as a mouse, rat or rabbit, make sure that the bedding is cost effective and easy to replace.

Also make sure that the bed is safe for your particular pet. There is no point in buying a bed that looks great if it is made of hazardous materials or if it has places where your pet could get their head or foot caught. Also look at the size of the bed. It is pretty difficult to go too big (apart from space issues) but if it is too small then your pet will find it practically impossible to get comfortable. Higher sides are great for keeping your pet warmer.

No matter what pet bed you end up buying, consider buying your pet its very own blanket as part of the bed (if appropriate). This can be their own special item and give them even more comfort!