Do Cats Prefer Enclosed Beds or Open Beds?

Have you ever bought a comfortable cat bed, only to find your cat sleeping in a cardboard box instead? You're not alone. Cats can be surprisingly particular about where they choose to rest.

Some cats love curling up inside covered spaces, while others prefer open cushions where they can stretch out and watch their surroundings. So, do cats prefer enclosed beds or open beds?

The answer depends on your cat's individual personality, sleeping habits, and environment. An enclosed bed may appeal to a cat that enjoys sheltered spaces, while an open bed may suit one that prefers more visibility and room to stretch.

If you're choosing a new bed for your feline friend, this guide will help you compare the options, understand what to look for, and choose a comfortable resting place for your cat.

Why Do Some Cats Like Enclosed Beds?

Cats often seek out sheltered places to rest. You might find your cat inside a cardboard box, beneath a chair, under a blanket, or tucked away in a quiet corner.

These places can offer a sense of shelter and allow cats to rest without being exposed to every movement around them.

An enclosed cat bed recreates some of those features in a dedicated resting space.

Here are a few reasons an enclosed bed may appeal to your cat.

1. It Provides a Sheltered Resting Space

Some cats seem happiest when they can curl up in a covered or partially enclosed area.

An enclosed bed creates a defined resting spot where your cat can settle without being completely exposed to the room.

This may be particularly appealing to cats that regularly choose sheltered spaces around the home.

However, not every cat enjoys being enclosed. Give your cat the freedom to enter and leave the bed whenever they choose.

2. It Can Create a Cozy Sleeping Environment

Many enclosed cat beds feature soft interiors and cushioned surfaces.

Depending on the materials and design, they may provide a cozy place to curl up, especially during cooler weather.

When choosing one, check the product dimensions, materials, ventilation, and cleaning instructions. A covered design should never trap excessive heat or prevent your cat from leaving comfortably.

3. It Gives Your Cat a Dedicated Place to Rest

Cats benefit from having suitable resting places around their home.

An enclosed bed can help create a designated spot away from busy walkways, noisy appliances, and other disturbances.

Place it somewhere your cat already feels comfortable. A quiet bedroom corner or a peaceful part of the living room may be a good starting point.

4. It May Appeal to Cats That Like Hiding Places

Some cats regularly hide beneath furniture or retreat to sheltered areas when they want quiet time.

For these cats, an enclosed bed may be worth trying.

Still, hiding preferences differ between individual animals. If your cat consistently avoids enclosed spaces, an open bed may be a better match.

Also, if your cat suddenly begins hiding much more than usual or shows other changes in behaviour, consider consulting a veterinarian rather than assuming it simply needs a different bed.

Why Do Some Cats Prefer Open Beds?

An open cat bed provides a sleeping surface without a roof or enclosed entrance.

It may be a cushion, a round donut bed, a sofa-style pet bed, or a simple padded mat.

Open beds offer different advantages that may suit cats with different preferences.

1. More Room to Stretch Out

Some cats like curling up into a small ball, while others stretch their legs and occupy a larger sleeping area.

An open bed can make it easier for a cat to change positions without navigating an enclosed entrance or limited interior space.

If your cat frequently sleeps fully stretched out, pay particular attention to the bed's usable surface area.

2. A Clear View of the Room

Some cats appear more comfortable when they can see what is happening around them.

An open bed allows a cat to watch family members, observe activity, and move away easily when it wants to.

This can be useful for cats that prefer staying near people rather than retreating into a covered space.

3. Easy Access

Open beds generally allow cats to step on and off without entering through a covered opening.

That can make them worth considering for cats that dislike confined spaces or prefer unrestricted access to their resting area.

For senior cats or cats with mobility difficulties, look for a bed with an appropriate height and easy access. Ask your veterinarian if your cat has specific mobility or medical needs.

4. Simple Everyday Placement

An open bed can fit on a suitable floor surface, beside a sofa, or in a quiet corner.

Some styles have raised edges, while others are flat and lightweight.

The most suitable option depends on your cat's size, sleeping position, and preferred resting locations.

Enclosed Cat Bed vs Open Cat Bed: What's the Difference?

The biggest difference is how much the bed surrounds your cat.

An enclosed bed creates a covered or sheltered resting space. An open bed leaves the sleeping surface exposed to the room.

Compare the two styles below before deciding which might suit your pet.

Feature	Enclosed Cat Bed	Open Cat Bed
Design	Covered, tent-like, or house-shaped	Open cushion, mat, donut, or sofa shape
Best suited to	Cats that enjoy sheltered spaces	Cats that prefer open resting areas
Visibility	The structure may limit the cat's view	Allows a clearer view of the surroundings
Access	Requires entry through an opening	Usually allows access from several directions
Sleeping position	May suit cats that curl up	Often offers more room to stretch
Warmth	Some designs may reduce exposure to cool air	Depends on the materials and construction
Space requirements	Needs room for the structure and entrance	Depends on the bed's shape and size
Main consideration	Check the opening, ventilation, and internal dimensions	Check the sleeping surface and overall size

Which one is better?

Neither style is universally better. The best choice is the one your cat can use comfortably and chooses to return to.

If you're unsure, consider providing both styles and observing which one your cat prefers.

How to Tell Which Type of Bed Your Cat Might Like

Before buying a new bed, spend a little time observing your cat.

Its existing habits can offer useful clues about which style to try first.

Your Cat May Prefer an Enclosed Bed If It Often:

• Sleeps inside cardboard boxes.

• Curls up beneath chairs or tables.

• Rests beneath blankets or in sheltered corners.

• Chooses small, covered sleeping spaces.

• Seems comfortable entering and leaving enclosed hideaways.

These behaviours don't guarantee your cat will like an enclosed bed, but they can help guide your decision.

Your Cat May Prefer an Open Bed If It Often:

• Sleeps stretched out across a sofa or cushion.

• Rests in the middle of an open room.

• Likes watching people and activity while resting.

• Frequently changes sleeping positions.

• Avoids covered spaces or enclosed entrances.

Your cat may also enjoy both styles at different times of the day.

The goal is not to force a preference but to offer a suitable place where your cat can relax.

What Should You Look for When Buying a Cat Bed?

Whether you choose an enclosed or open design, consider these five factors.

1. The Right Size

Your cat should have enough room to lie down comfortably, turn around, and change positions.

Measure your cat in its usual sleeping position and compare those measurements with the manufacturer's product dimensions.

For enclosed beds, check the interior space and entrance opening. For open beds, pay attention to the usable sleeping surface.

Don't rely on product photographs alone. A bed may appear larger or smaller depending on the camera angle.

2. Comfortable Materials

Look for materials that are appropriate for your cat and your household.

Soft plush fabrics may appeal to cats that enjoy cushioned resting surfaces. Other cats may prefer smoother fabrics or firmer mats.

Check the product description to understand the materials used and whether the interior has removable components.

3. Easy Cleaning

Cat beds can accumulate loose fur, dust, and everyday dirt.

Before buying, check whether the bed is machine washable, hand washable, or suitable only for spot cleaning.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the fabric or structure.

4. A Suitable Location

Even a well-designed bed may be ignored if it's placed somewhere your cat doesn't enjoy resting.

Choose a quiet, dry area away from heavy foot traffic.

If your cat likes being near family members, consider a peaceful corner of a room where people spend time without constantly disturbing the animal.

5. Your Cat's Individual Needs

Age, mobility, grooming habits, and personal preferences can all influence which bed is suitable.

For example, a cat that struggles to step into a raised or enclosed structure may benefit from an easier-access design.

If your cat has a medical condition or has recently changed its sleeping behaviour, consult a veterinarian when necessary.

Three Cat Bed Styles Worth Considering

Once you've identified your cat's likely preference, you can compare different designs.

1. Enclosed Cat Tent Bed

A tent-style cat bed creates a sheltered resting area with a covered structure and an opening for entry.

This design may suit cats that enjoy curling up in quiet, partially enclosed spaces.

The Cozy Enclosed Cat Tent Bed from The Pure Paws Hub is one option to consider when looking for a covered resting space.

Before ordering, check the available size, colour, materials, and dimensions to make sure the selected version is suitable for your cat.

2. Plush Cat House Bed

A cat house bed provides a more house-like resting structure.

Depending on its design, it may offer a cushioned interior and a covered space where a cat can settle for a nap.

The Cozy Plush Cat House Bed is another option for pet parents exploring enclosed resting spaces.

Check the product specifications and cleaning instructions before purchasing.

3. Open Donut Cat Bed

A donut bed features a round sleeping surface with raised edges.

It offers a different experience from a covered bed because the sleeping area remains open while the raised sides create a defined resting space.

The Cozy Plush Donut Bed for Dogs & Cats is worth considering if your cat prefers an open surface where it can curl up or change positions without entering an enclosed structure.

Always choose a size that allows your cat to rest comfortably.

You can compare these styles in The Pure Paws Hub's Pet Beds & Carriers Collection.

How to Introduce a New Bed to Your Cat

Buying a bed doesn't guarantee your cat will use it immediately.

Some cats investigate new objects straight away, while others prefer to approach them gradually.

Try these simple steps:

Choose a familiar location. Place the bed somewhere your cat already likes to spend time.

Allow your cat to investigate. Let your cat sniff the bed and approach it voluntarily.

Keep the area calm. Avoid placing the bed beside loud appliances or in a busy passageway.

Make the experience positive. You can place a familiar, safe blanket nearby if appropriate, provided it doesn't obstruct the bed or conflict with the manufacturer's instructions.

Give it time. Avoid repeatedly placing your cat inside the bed or forcing it to stay there.

If your cat ignores the new bed, try a different location or consider another style.

Remember that the purpose of a pet bed is to offer a comfortable resting option, not to dictate where your cat must sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cats prefer enclosed beds or open beds?

There is no single answer for every cat. Some prefer sheltered spaces, while others enjoy open sleeping surfaces. Observe your cat's existing habits and consider offering both options.

Why does my cat prefer a cardboard box to its bed?

A cardboard box may offer a sheltered space that feels comfortable and familiar to your cat. Its size, shape, and location may be more appealing than the bed you've provided. Try placing a suitable bed in a quiet area and allow your cat to explore it voluntarily.

Are enclosed beds good for indoor cats?

An enclosed bed can provide an additional resting option for an indoor cat that enjoys sheltered spaces. Make sure it has adequate ventilation, appropriate dimensions, and an entrance your cat can use easily.

Do cats get too hot in enclosed beds?

The temperature inside a bed depends on its materials, construction, room conditions, and your cat's needs. Choose a suitable product, keep the sleeping area comfortable, and ensure your cat can leave whenever it wants.

Should kittens use enclosed beds?

A suitably sized enclosed bed may be an option for a kitten, provided the entrance is accessible, the structure is safe, and the kitten can enter and leave freely. Choose a bed designed for the kitten's size and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Are donut beds better than enclosed beds?

Neither is automatically better. Donut beds provide an open surface with raised edges, while enclosed beds provide a covered space. Choose based on your cat's sleeping habits, comfort, and access needs.

How can I encourage my cat to use its new bed?

Place the bed in a familiar, quiet location and let your cat investigate it at its own pace. If the cat continues to avoid it, try another location or a different bed style.

How often should I clean my cat's bed?

Cleaning frequency depends on how often the bed is used, how much fur it collects, and whether it becomes dirty. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions and clean it whenever necessary to maintain a hygienic resting space.

Final Verdict: Which Cat Bed Should You Choose?

If your cat regularly curls up in boxes, hides beneath furniture, or seeks sheltered spaces, an enclosed cat bed may be a sensible option to try.

If your cat prefers stretching out, watching its surroundings, or resting on open cushions, an open bed may be a better starting point.

And if you aren't sure, you don't have to choose based on guesswork alone. Observe your cat's habits and give it the opportunity to explore different suitable resting spaces.

At The Pure Paws Hub, you can compare enclosed cat beds, plush cat house beds, and open donut beds to find an option that suits your pet and your home.

Explore our Pet Beds & Carriers Collection and find a comfortable resting space for your feline friend.