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As a cat owner and environmental campaigner (or semi-militant eco-warrior, as some of my friends have called me), I understand the importance of finding products that are good for our feline friends and gentle on the environment.
That's why, following on from the success of my eco-friendly cat litter article (thanks for all the kind comments and emails! ❤), I've gone back into testing/research mode and rounded up the best eco-friendly cat beds on the market.
In this comprehensive review, Cleo, Pumpkin, and I set out to find the best options that prioritize sustainability without sacrificing comfort.
So, let's dive in and find the purrfect bed for your fur baby and Mother Earth!
✔ Stuffed with recycled IntelliLoft
✔ Love it Guarantee
✔ Handcrafted in Bozeman, MT
Yes. I know this product is technically sold as a dog bed. But let me explain.
James gave this bed to me after testing it for his eco-friendly dog beds article, and my cats loved it instantly!
After testing it out with my two American Shorthairs (Cleo and Pumpkin) for a few weeks, I can confidently say that this bed checks all the boxes for a non-toxic cat bed.
It's handcrafted in Bozeman, Montana, using OEKO-TEX Certified safe textiles, which means every bed component is free from harmful chemicals. As someone with allergies who is conscious of off-gassing and what I bring into my home, this was a huge selling point.
But what really caught my attention was the IntelliLoft® fill.
Made entirely from recycled plastic bottles, this eco-friendly stuffing is excellent for the environment and provides a plush and comfortable surface for my cats to rest their weary paws.
The low-profile design of the Heyday Bed is perfect for Cleo and Pumpkin, and the pillowy sides offer just the right amount of support without being too high.
I love the durability of this bed. The Microsuede bottom of the bed is designed to resist floor dirt and withstand daily wear and tear.
It's also effortless to clean. I can wipe up most spills with a damp cloth, and when it's time for a deep clean, I can throw the entire bed into the washing machine. It's as simple as that!
I chose this bed as my overall winner for several key reasons:
So, as dog beds go…it makes a pretty awesome cat bed! 😊
As if all of this wasn't enough, West Paw stands by its product with a Love it Guarantee. This level of commitment to customer satisfaction speaks volumes about the trustworthiness and quality of the brand. Although I wouldn't expect anything less from an ethical Certified B Corporation.
Shipping costs for US orders start from $5.95, and all orders are shipped using recyclable materials.
West Paw does not ship outside the US. However, this bed is also available to purchase on Amazon for international customers.
The handmade quality of this cat sleeping bag is impressive. The craftsmanship is evident in every stitch, and I love that it's plastic-free. My kitties sometimes chew on things, so knowing they're safe from harmful materials is a huge relief.
The versatility of this sleeping bag is another feature that tickles my whiskers. Cleo and Pumpkin prefer to lounge on top. But I've seen other feline friends who love to burrow inside, making it the perfect fit for any cat's preference.
Want even more versatility? Add a soft pillow or blanket, and you have a cozy cat nest.
I'm also very impressed with the eco-credentials of this fantastic find.
The organic cotton is GOTS-certified, Etsy offsets all carbon emissions from the delivery and packaging, and PurrfectPlay donates 3% of each sale to no-kill/rescue organizations.
The natural cream/white color is also undyed, which adds to its earth-friendly charm. And with dimensions of 26" x 30" x 6", this medium-sized bed was perfect for my two, but there is also a small version (26" x 30" x 6") if you have a smaller cat.
Traveling with this organic sleeping bag is a breeze, as it folds and stores easily. I've tucked it into my suitcase and even fashioned a makeshift travel bed in my car. It's perfect for those road trips with your feline companion.
I adore that I can toss this sleep sack into any wash load without a fuss. Just remember to use unscented products for your kitty's comfort.
One slight negative is that I experienced shrinkage after the first wash. Not a significant issue, though (it didn't affect the overall usability of this fantastic product), just something to bear in mind.
I adore that the MEOWFIA cat cave is made from 100% New Zealand Merino wool. It's free from harsh chemicals and synthetic materials. That's a big win for both my furry friends and the environment.
Plus, it's 100% decomposable, so there are no worries about contributing to landfill waste.
The hand-crafted nature of this cat bed caught my attention, too.
Clearly, the artisans who make these caves put a lot of love and care into their work. And knowing that my purchase supports female workers in Nepal and donates to Tabby Tails makes me feel even better about my decision to buy one.
The MEOWFIA cat cave has a sleek, modern look and comes in various sizes and colors.
Cleo and Pumpkin loved having the option to either hide inside the cave or lounge on top. And with two sizes available to cater to various cat breeds, I quickly found the perfect fit for my fur babies.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the temperature-regulating properties of the wool, making it a year-round favorite. The soft interior also helps muffle outside noises, providing a safe and quiet space for Cleo and Pumpkin to retreat when feeling overwhelmed.
Of course, no product is without its flaws. One downside is that the wool can be a magnet for cat hair. However, this is easily managed with regular vacuuming and the occasional hand wash in cold water.
Also, as a hand-crafted item, there can be slight variations in size and shape, so it may not be an exact match to the product photos.
The MEOWFIA Premium Felt Cat Bed Cave is a fantastic investment if you want to provide your feline friends with a cozy, stylish, and environmentally responsible place to rest.
✔ 45-Day Free Trial
✔ Handwoven Baskets
✔ Integrated Scratching Posts
The aesthetics of this cat tree tower are simply stunning! The combination of real wooden branches, handwoven baskets, and plush faux fur makes it a beautiful piece of cat furniture.
The integrated scratching areas made from 6mm jute rope allow Cleo and Pumpkin to keep their claws in check. And the handwoven basket and cushioned platform step offer cozy spots for napping and lounging. Plus, they simply can't get enough of the hanging pompom ball!
The Mau Wooden Cat Tree Tower is designed for large cats weighing up to 15 pounds, so I have no concerns about its sturdiness. The high-quality materials and metal frame ensure that it will last for years.
I appreciate that Mau plants a tree for every cat tree sold and donates 5% of all proceeds to animal welfare and environmental conservation organizations. It feels great knowing that my purchase supports such worthy causes.
The price tag is steep at $279. However, given the quality, durability, and eco-credentials, I believe it's a worthwhile investment if your budget can stretch that far. If not, Mau does have some more budget-friendly pieces. Check out its full range of eco-friendly beds here.
While the Mau Wooden Cat Tree Tower boasts an impressive list of eco-friendly features, it's essential to address one aspect that falls short of perfection: the faux fur and foam.
These materials (a blend of polyester and acrylic) may not be the most environmentally friendly options on the market. However, it's crucial to consider this in the context of the overall product.
The faux fur and foam components comprise only a small portion of the cat tree tower, with most of the structure being crafted from natural materials such as real tree branches and jute rope.
Additionally, Mau has made it clear to me that all materials used in its products are non-toxic, ensuring the safety and well-being of your feline friend.
Given these factors, I believe the faux fur and foam are acceptable. The Mau Wooden Cat Tree Tower still stands out as a largely eco-conscious choice, especially when compared to many other cat trees on the market, which often rely heavily on synthetic materials.
To top it all off, Mau offers a 45-day risk-free trial and a 1-year warranty so that you can feel confident in your purchase. If unsatisfied, you can return it within 45 days for a full refund.
And if you encounter any functional defects within one year of receiving the product, Mau will work with you to resolve the issue.
I love the PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge. Not only does it tick many eco-friendly boxes, but it also provides the perfect kingdom for my kitties to reign over.
This jumbo-sized lounger is made from recycled corrugated cardboard, held together by non-toxic cornstarch glue, and finished with premium satin cardboard siding. It's a win-win for both the planet and my fur babies!
The two-tiered structure offers ample space for Cleo and Pumpkin to scratch, play, and lounge. The subtle curves make scratching a breeze and provide a cozy catnapping nook. And my two go wild for the premium USA organic catnip leaf that comes with it.
Durability is another standout feature. The fact that it's reversible means I can get double the use out of it. Talk about value for money!
To keep this cat scratcher lounger in A1 conditions, clean it at least once a month. I find I get the best results with mild, fragrance-free general-purpose cleaners.
Measuring 39" x 11" x 14.30", it takes up a fair bit of floor space. If you're short on room, you might want to consider a smaller option. You can check out the full PetFusion range here.
Another minor gripe is the price. At $85.95, it's not the cheapest scratcher on the market (although, also nowhere near the most expensive). However, given its durability and eco-credentials, I see it as an investment in my cats' happiness and the planet's wellbeing.
These are minor flies in the ointments. Overall the PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge is a fantastic option if you want to spoil your feline overlords.
There are many factors I consider while testing products and researching manufacturers.
For this eco-friendly cat bed roundup, I carefully considered the following:
Cat trees are the perfect choice for the feline who prefers to live on the edge (or at least high above the ground).
These multi-level structures come complete with perches, cubbies, and sometimes even hammocks, giving your kitty plenty of space to climb, lounge, and survey their kingdom.
Does your kitty love to burrow and hide away? Then a cat cave might just be their cup of catnip tea.
These snug little sanctuaries provide a safe and secure spot for your furry friend to curl up and snooze the day away.
If your cat fancies itself as royalty (let's be honest…most do!), a cat lounger is the perfect throne.
These stylish beds come in all shapes and sizes, from sleek and modern to plush and posh.
Some even feature built-in scratching surfaces or toys, making them a multifunctional marvel.
For the adventurous feline who loves to explore, a cat sleeping bag is the ultimate home away from home.
These portable beds provide a warm and cozy retreat for your kitty, whether they're camping out in the living room or joining you on a cross-country road trip.
If your cat loves the warmth, a radiator bed might be their dream.
These ingenious beds attach to your home's radiator, providing a warm and toasty perch for your kitty to bask in.
For the feline who craves constant coziness, a heated cat bed is the ultimate indulgence.
These snuggly sanctuaries feature built-in heating elements that keep your cat warm and comfy all year round.
The most significant contributor to a cat's carbon pawprint is their meat-heavy diet. This requires an abundance of energy, land, and water to produce.
A 2017 study found that feeding dogs and cats in the US produces about 64 million tons of carbon dioxide annually, which is similar to the impact of having 13.6 million cars on the roads. The study's author, Gregory Okin from UCLA, said that if dogs and cats were a separate nation, they would rank fifth in terms of global meat consumption after China, the US, Brazil, and Russia.
Pet waste contains bacteria and other pollutants that can contaminate waterways if not disposed of properly.
Cats are also natural hunters and can have a devastating effect on local bird populations if they're allowed to roam outdoors without supervision or restraint.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your pets' ecological impact, such as:
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your furry friend has minimal impact on the environment while still enjoying all the love and companionship they bring into your life!
To encourage your cat to use the bed, try placing it where they typically sleep, such as on the edge of the sofa or at the foot of your bed. They're more likely to try if it's in a familiar spot.
Cats, like humans, have varying sleeping preferences. If your cat enjoys curling up in your bedding, they may prefer a soft bed. However, if your cat sleeps on the floor or countertops, they may prefer a firmer bed…or even no bed at all!
According to the National Library of Medicine:
Toxoplasma gondii is an intestinal coccidium that parasitizes members of the cat family as definitive hosts and has a wide range of intermediate hosts. Infection is common in many warm-blooded animals, including humans. In most cases infection is asymptomatic, but devastating disease can occur.
The best fabric for a cat bed will depend on your cat's needs and preferences. Generally speaking, natural materials like wool are great options since they are sustainable, temperature-regulating, and comfortable. Cats have sensitive noses, so steer clear of strong-smelling fabrics.
No, cats don't always need a bed. However, if your cat gravitates towards your bed or sofa, a cat bed can help them feel safe and secure while giving you both some much-needed space.
Cats don't usually like hard or bumpy surfaces. Avoid items such as metal, tile, and plastic. If you need to provide a safe climbing surface for your cat, opt for carpeted shelves or ramps covered with soft materials like fleece or wool.
Cats don't enjoy being touched or scratched on the stomach, tail base, or bony areas such as the spine. These spots are sensitive to stimulation and should be avoided when petting your cat.
Your cat can still be bonded to you even if it sleeps next to you but not on top of you. It's a sign of trust that your cat feels safe enough to sleep near you. Some cats feel more secure with a little space while sleeping and may not want to be directly on top of you.
As responsible cat owners, choosing the right eco-friendly cat bed for your furry friend is an important decision.
I've tried to cover a wide range of cat needs and preferences with my recommendations in this article.
I hope that by understanding the materials, certifications, comfort levels, and other factors involved in producing sustainable cat beds, you can make an informed choice that will give your cat a comfortable and sustainable place to rest its head.
Happy cat napping!
Where do you buy your non-toxic cat beds? Have I missed your favorite brand? Have you ever made your own pet beds from recycled fabric? Drop me a line and let me know.
Our core values mean we always prioritize sustainability over profit. We carefully evaluate and personally test every product to ensure they meet our high standards. All products recommended in this article were tested in accordance with our Review Methodology.
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