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18 Best Heated Cat Beds 2024 (For Every Budget And Type Of Cat!)

Posted in: Cat Supplies - Last Updated: January 8, 2024 - Author: Jennifer Bridgers
Posted in Cat Supplies 
Last Updated: October 25, 2022  
Author:  Jennifer Bridgers

Every cat owner knows how much cats love to seek out a warm spot. And, of course, we all know that our cats can sleep an average of around 15 hours per day and as much as 20 hours per day if they’re older or unwell.

So, if you want to go the extra step of caring for your cat to make sure they have a warm, snug, and safe sleeping spot at all times, then a heated cat bed is a great idea.

We've narrowed down all your options by gathering 17 heated cat beds together (plus one wild card) and testing and rating them. 

Best Heated Cat Bed - Our Top Choice

We rate the K&H Thermo Kitty Heated Cat Bed as our overall best heated cat bed.

It comes out on top because it's made by a company that specializes in heated pet beds, it's not too expensive, it's well made and durable, the fabric is soft and the heating element is safe and gives just the right temperature your cat wants.

It's also the one most of our cats preferred.

best heated cat bed

As well as our overall best pick, you'll see a total of eleven alternative K&H heated cat beds in this article and you'll be making a good choice if you pick any of them.

That's not because we're in league with that brand, but simply because the electric heated cat bed is something they specialise in.

They are experts at making heated cat beds and heating pads, so any of their range is a solid choice.

It does mean that they slightly dominate this group test (and the whole heated pet bed market, to be honest).

But it also means that you can buy anything from their heated cat bed range knowing it's a good product and worth your money.

However, in this group test, we'll also compare heated beds for cats from other brands.

We’re looking at their price, heating method, how well made they are, what type of cat and situation they are best suited to and, of course, what our cats thought.

Best Heated Cat Bed - Our Three Picks

As with all our group tests, we dive straight into our top three choices. Then we look at all the options that we had in our hands-on review process and after that, we look at some of the things that shaped our decisions.

Below the rundown of the 18 best options, we look at some of the factors you should consider when choosing a heated cat bed as well as some of the options and alternatives to using a plug-in heated bed.

You should note that this group test focuses primarily on electric heated cat beds (ones that you plug in).

That's because we have several other group round-ups of beds that are better described as self-warming cat beds (although we do have our top pick for that below), or the more simple cat heating pad.

We also look at some options for outdoor heated cat beds, but that is covered in additional detail in our full article on outdoor cat houses.

So, in our table below, we compare some of the most important features of our three favorite heated cat beds, with a focus on the electric cat bed.

For much more detail about each individual product continue reading this article.

Our Top 3 Choices

Best Overall

K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed Small 16 Inches Sage/Tan

K&H Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed

  • Soft foam walls for security and comfort
  • Low wattage and very energy efficient
  • Machine washable and very durable

Best Budget

Homello Pet Heating Pad for Cats Dogs, Waterproof Electric Heating Mat Indoor, Adjustable Warming Mat, Pets Heated Bed with Chew Resistant Steel Cord (17.7' x 17.7')

Homello Cat Heating Pad

  • Energy-efficient adjustable heating
  • Waterproof and heat-reflecting materials
  • Power off and no-chew safety

Best Premium

Thermotex Far Infrared Premium Heating Pet Bed – Animal Heating Bed – Relieves Sore Muscles and Joints with Arthritis – for Dogs and Cats up to 24 lbs.

Thermotex Infrared Heating Cat Bed

  • Patented infrared technology for therapeutic care
  • Deep heat for pain relief and increased blood flow
  • Especially suited for old or infirm cats

So that’s a quick chart showing our three best picks for electric heated bed. Now let’s take a deeper look at the best heated cat beds.

To start with, let’s look at the top 3 in a little more detail.

1. Best Overall Heated Cat Bed: K&H Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed

K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed Small 16 Inches Sage/Tan

The K&H Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed is our choice for the overall best heated cat bed because it's not too expensive and it's well made and durable.

The fabric is soft and the 6-inch high soft foam walls give your cat a sense of security and comfort.

As we said at the start, we also rate this because it’s made by K&H, a company that specializes in heated pet beds.

Their knowledge in making thermostatically controlled pet beds is unrivaled and they know how to make a bed that cats love.

This electric heated cat bed uses a dual thermostat heater which only draws 4 watts so it’s energy efficient, cheap to run and it’s MET safety certified.

The thermostat heats to your cat’s body temperature (around 102℉) only when the bed is occupied and turns off when it’s empty.

To heat up the bed, all you have to do is plug it in. It can remain plugged in even when it is not in use because that eco-mode will kick in, only warming up when your kitty lays back down. 

It’s also easy to keep clean and fresh. The heater (or the ‘pet bed warmer’ as K&H calls it) is easy to remove and then you slip off the outer cover which is machine washable. It’s just as easy to put back together.

Plus, in the warmer months, you can simply remove the pet bed warmer so it’s not overly hot for your cat.

Most cats enjoy the K&H Thermo-Kitty Heated Bed, even if it does take them a while to warm up to it (pun intended) as you can see in our video review.

Between the soft cover, polyfill filling, and ortho foam walls, this heated cat bed will keep your kitty nice and toasty. 

As a bonus, this heated cat bed comes in two sizes and two colors and comes with a one-year limited warranty.

We recommend the smaller size (at 16 inches) as big enough for almost all cats and you’ll only need the larger one (at 20 inches) if your kitty is a larger breed (like a Maine Coon) or if you have more than one cat.

The things we don’t like about this heated cat bed are few. As Holly notes in the video, it can feel as though it’s not warming up after you plug it in.

And it can take as much as twenty minutes to get up to your cat’s body temperature. That’s because of the low wattage and it’s not a big issue once you know it’s just taking a while.

Something more of our reviewers disliked was the short power cable. At just 5½ feet, it simply isn’t long enough if you want to put the cat bed at a raised height or away from an outlet.

In most circumstances, an extension cord will be fine, but do be aware of this before buying.

If you have a cat that loves a soft area and likes to curl up somewhere warm then this really is the heated cat bed for your cat. It’s a safe and dependable choice.

NOTE: there is also a hooded version with a top cover that your cat might prefer if they like to feel more enclosed and secure. Check that out here.

Pros

  • Easy to use - just plug it in
  • Has safety certifications
  • Saves energy when cat is away and warms up when they lay down
  • Removable heater and washable cover
  • Comes in two colors and two sizes
  • Hooded version also available

Cons

  • It takes cats a while to warm up to this bed sometimes
  • Power lead is a little short
  • Only suitable for indoor use

2. Best Budget Heated Cat Bed: Homello Cat Heating Pad

Homello Pet Heating Pad for Cats Dogs, Waterproof Electric Heating Mat Indoor, Adjustable Warming Mat, Pets Heated Bed with Chew Resistant Steel Cord (17.7' x 17.7')

As our value plug-in budget electric cat bed, we’ve picked what some would say is actually a cat heating pad or warming pad - and we’d agree.

The reason we’ve chosen it is because of the lower-priced options for an electric heated cat bed this is by far the best option, even though it’s a pad rather than an enclosing bed.

Although it might be lacking sides and additional shaping and soft fabrics, this is a hit with our cats. 

Most of the value choices for heated cat beds are self-warming (more on that later) and there are options you could choose that do not have a heater included - and we recommend one later in this roundup.

But, if you want the guaranteed heat of an electric element, then this is the one to go for at the lower end of the price range.

It has three layers of refractory wool. One on either side of the electric heating wire and a third layer to retain heat.

The pad is covered on both sides with a PVC water-resistant cover. Whilst this might not sound especially luxurious, our cats found it comfortable enough and you could always throw a blanket over it.

The heating element is again thermostatically controlled and will switch off if no cat is lying on the bed and it also offers two settings.

The cord is no-chew (so if there’s a dog in your house that is safe) and it’s easy to wipe down and keep clean.

Whilst the Homello pet heating pad is made in 3 sizes, the small at 17.7 inches square is all you need for almost any cat.

The only concern we have is that, at this price, we would not expect it to last as well as a K&H product. Whilst it feels sufficiently well-made it simply can’t be as durable as more expensive heated cat beds.

Pros

  • Energy-efficient adjustable heating
  • Heat-reflecting layers to retain heat
  • Easy clean PVC outer waterproof cover
  • Safety controls with power off electric heater and no-chew cable
  • Great value

Cons

  • Not a full enclosing bed
  • Possible durability concerns

3. Best Premium Heated Cat Bed Option: Thermotex Far Infrared Heating Pet Bed

Thermotex Far Infrared Premium Heating Pet Bed – Animal Heating Bed – Relieves Sore Muscles and Joints with Arthritis – for Dogs and Cats up to 24 lbs.

We’ve really got two premium picks from our testing. One is this Thermotex Infrared Heating Pet Bed, which is the best choice for older or unwell cats, because it provides a type and depth of warmth that can really make a muscle-level difference for them.

(The other is our next choice below which is just a great luxury or, if you like, a designer pick.)

The Thermotex is the right heated cat bed for you if your cat’s ability to get and stay warm is compromised by age or illness. It’s a premium pick because its special properties mean that, unfortunately, it isn’t cheap.

It has a unique and patented far infrared heating therapy that has been shown in rigorous clinical trials to help support pain management and healing as well as soothing arthritis symptoms.

The heat it provides is a deeper penetrating heat that actually reaches the muscles of your cat and does not cause any dehydration or burning so it is proven to be safe (as well as healing).

The one thing we don’t like is the rather massive logo on the front of the bed. However, it is only on one side so you can simply face the logo side toward a wall, and then the Thermotex heated cat bed is actually quite stylish.

Although it was large enough for our cats we can see that at just 19¾ inches by 17½ inches, it might not be large enough for really big cats or those that like to stretch out!

Those dimensions are the full external size and the depth of the walls means that the internal space is about 4 inches less in length and width (2 inches per side).

Highly recommended for cats that need that extra bit of care in old age or when recuperating from an illness or operation.

Pros

  • Patented infrared technology for therapeutic care
  • Deep heat for pain relief and increased blood flow
  • Especially suited for old or infirm cats

Cons

  • Might be a bit tight for larger cats
  • No hiding from the cost!

4. Best Heated Cat Pod: K&H Products Thermo-Lookout Pod Heated Cat Bed

K&H Pet Products Thermo Lookout Pod Indoor Heated Cat Bed for Large Cats, Heated Cat Cave, Thermal Cat Mat Hideaway for Small or Large Cats and Kittens - Classy Gray 22 Inches

Our other premium pick is the next K&H heated bed (of eleven!) in our roundup and we chose it just because we love the way it looks - and our cats all loved sleeping in it.

Being from K&H, the quality and durability are as expected and it shares a similar 4-watt heating element as in our overall pick.

That means it has the same thermostatic control and also takes as long as twenty minutes to warm up after switching it on.

But, as with their other beds, if your cat isn’t lying in the bed the power and heat are not on.

The design is two halves that zip together in a wipe-clean outer fabric and a cloth interior. There’s a front opening for entry and a clear plastic lookout window on the top.

The heater is removable (for cleaning and in warmer weather) as is the washable cushion that comes with it.

We found that some larger cats found getting through the relatively slim entry was a challenge (although they all managed it) and we have heard reports of the top window breaking in some instances.

We rate this very highly and know from our readers that it is especially popular with hairless cats such as Sphynx who seem to like the heat and the enclosed style.

Pros

  • Stylish covered heated pod with lookout window
  • 4-watt heater warms bed and is removable
  • Easy to use - just plug it in
  • MET safety certified
  • Loved by Sphynx cats!
  • Comes with a one-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Somewhat expensive
  • Entry opening is on the small side and some larger cats struggle to get in!
  • Risk of the plastic window breaking

5. Best Cat Heating Pad: K&H Products Thermo-Kitty Mat Heated Pet Bed

K&H Pet Products Heated Thermo-Kitty Mat, Indoor Heated Cat Bed, Pet Heat Pad for Indoor Cats and Small Dogs, Cat Heating Pad, Electric Thermal Warming Cat Bed Mat, Mocha/Tan 12.5 X 25 Inches

Another K&H recommendation. This could easily be our budget pick, but we felt we really needed to give another brand a chance!

That said, this is a great choice if you decide to go for the simple cat heating pad. So much so that in our group test of cat heating pads, this is our overall winner.

The K&H Thermo-Kitty Matt Heated Pet Bed is a very versatile heated pet bed. It measures 12½ by 25 inches and is very easy to use. All you have to do is plug it in!

The heater inside the pad is slightly more powerful than in some other K&H heated cat beds but still only uses 6 watts, and is both removable and safety certified by MET Labs.

It only heats the pad thermostatically when your cat is laying on the bed and it warms to about 12 to 15 degrees above the air temperature to match your cat’s body temperature.

The mat is made of soft foam with a plush washable cover and it’s reversible. Most cats find it very comfortable.

As a bonus, the K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Mat Heated Cat Bed is affordable and comes with a one-year limited warranty.

The one downside is that some users have reported that it could use more padding. Our testers and their cats didn’t really agree, feeling that it was plush, padded and comfortable enough.

Pros

  • Easy to use - just plug it in
  • Controlled by a thermostat
  • Only heats when your cat is laying on the pad
  • Pad measures 12½ by 25 inches
  • Removable heater uses 6 watts and is MET safety certified
  • The cover is machine washable

Cons

  • Some users wish that it had more padding

6. K&H Pet Products Thermo-Snuggle Cup Bomber

K&H PET PRODUCTS Heated Thermo-Snuggle Cup Bomber Indoor Heated Cat Bed, Heated Pet Bed for Indoor Cats and Small Dogs, Thermal Warming Large Cat Bed, Round Kitty Heating Bed, Chocolate 14x18in

The next three heated cat beds are all also from K&H and we include them as further choices that you might feel are the perfect fit for your cat depending on their nature.

After all, you know your cat best.

This one has their standard 4-watt thermostatically controlled heater so it’s only on when your cat is in the bed.

The Snuggle Cup Bomber is 14 by 18 inches in a squashed oval shape with slightly higher (but softer) walls than our number one pick at 7 inches.

That’s why it’s called the Snuggle Cup!

The main difference to out overall pick is the fabric used for the inner walls and the squashable nature of the walls.

The design lives up to its name as it has a cup-like feeling and it will suit cats who really like to snuggle down into the bed.Your cat can really snuggle down into the heat.

The only negative is that the density of padding on the floor doesn’t match the walls and might feel a little thin.

Pros

  • 4-watt energy-efficient thermostatic heater
  • Super soft ‘bomber’ fabric lining
  • Squashy sidewalls for maximum snuggling
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • Floor padding perhaps a little thin

7. K&H Products Heated Thermo-Kitty Fashion Splash Cat Bed

K&H Pet Products Heated Thermo-Kitty Fashion Splash Indoor Cat Bed, Orthopedic Foam Base Heated Bed for Large Cats with Removable Waterproof Heater, Mocha Large 16 X 22 Inches

This more recent design from K&H (again!) is a bit of a cross between a heated cat bed and a heated pad.

This has all the usual benefits of the K&H range, although on this occasion it has a 7-watt heater which heats up a bit faster.

We think the higher power (which is still a very low power draw and is energy efficient) is because the design is more open and requires more effort to initially heat.

As with their other products ‘eco-mode’ means that you can leave the heated cat bed switched on and it will only draw electricity and heat up when your cat is in the bed.

The cover is removable and machine washable and the bed can be used without the heater in warmer months.

It comes in two sizes and the small size at 18 inches round is suitable for smaller cats and kittens, whilst the larger size at 18 inches by 16 inches in an oval shape is more suited for larger cats, or there is room for two!

Our view is that this design would suit cats that don’t like to feel too enclosed or kitties that like to sleep splayed out rather than curled up.

One of ours loved to rest her head on the edge as well. 

Pros

  • 7-watt energy efficient heater
  • Thermostatic ‘eco-mode’ control only heats when in use
  • Can be left plugged in
  • Best for cats who like to spread out
  • Room for two!

Cons

  • Not right for cats that want to feel enclosed

8. K&H Products Mod Dream Pod Pet Bed

K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Mod Dream Pod Heated Cat Bed for Large Cats, Indoor Heated Cat Cave, Thermal Cat Mat Hideaway for Small or Large Cats and Kittens 22 Inches Green/Black

The alternative pod design from K&H is very similar to our best heated cat pod pick above, except that it has no lookout window.

In truth, it’s as good as that and if you prefer this design you should choose this one.

It is virtually the same dimensions at 22 by 11 inches high and has the same 4-watt thermostatic heater.

However, it only has an entry door and, on this design, it’s slightly higher up and at an angle. That allows it to function as the entry and as a place for your kitty to pop out its head out to look around.

The external fabric is an interesting weave that is wipe clean and the inside is fabric lined.

The zip-apart halves make it easy to take apart and the heater can be removed. When assembled this pod bed suits cats who like to snuggle away in a warm hiding place

If you’re looking for a slightly cheaper heated cat pod design then this is the best option, or if you simply prefer the look and color or prefer the lack of the lookout window.

Pros

  • 4-watt removable heater
  • Zip-apart lined cocoon design
  • Cheaper than the K&H lookout pod design
  • Bowl design for extra kitty comfort

Cons

  • Not a lot!

Self-Warming Cat Beds (aka Self-Heated Cat Beds)

That brings us to the end of our picks of electric heated cat beds for indoor use and before we look at some outdoor heated cat beds (and guess which brand has that market sewn up…?), we’re going to touch on self-warming beds.

And it is just touching on it because we have a separate roundup group test of just this type of heated cat bed.

We think that most people who are looking for a heated cat bed are thinking of an electric one that plugs in and has a heater or heating pad to bring up the temperature to a cat’s body temperature or slightly more.

But, it is perfectly reasonable to think of a self-warming bed (or self-heated as some people call them) as a heated cat bed.

self warming heated cat bed

The self-warming cat bed does exactly what it sounds like. It uses the body temperature of your cat to warm up the bed and then (usually) they have special fabrics and design that retains that heat and keeps the bed warm.

There’s no doubt that these beds do heat up and then function as a heated cat bed but if you want the full run down, read our full self-warming cat bed group test.

From that group test, we’ll look below at the best self-warming cat bed and the budget option we and our cats like.

9. Best Self-Warming Heated Cat Bed: PetMate Aspen Self-Warming Bed

Petmate 80868 Aspen Pet Self-Warming Dog Bed, 24' x 20', Color May Vary

The Aspen from PetMate is our overall best pick for a self-warming cat bed. This self-heated cat bed is available in various sizes and in a rectangular shape or circular.

The rectangular one we tested was the smallest of that shape available at 24 inches by 20 inches with 7-inch high sides.

The smallest circular style is 19½ inches round.

The reason this is the top pick in our self-warming cat bed roundup test is the combination of value, quality of manufacture and durability, and the self-heating properties of the design and materials.

The outside is an attractive chunky corduroy whilst the inner walls have a faux lambswool lining that encourages your cat to cuddle into the lining.

Inside there is a special space-age mylar lining (as used in space blankets) that reflects body heat back to your cat. The underside has a non-slip textured bottom to prevent the bed from moving about on smooth floors.

This smallest size rectangular Aspen bed is big enough for the largest cats and will accommodate two whilst the small circular design is just right for a medium to a large cat to burrow into and snuggle on their own.

If you want to have a heated cat bed that does not have an electric heater then this is our top choice. We don’t know a cat that isn’t in love with it!

Pros

  • Great value self-heated cat bed
  • Mylar heat reflecting internal layer
  • Soft faux lambswool lining for deep comfort
  • Non-slip bottom
  • Various sizes and shapes

Cons

  • No external heat source (but self-heating works very well)

10. Best Budget Self-Warming Heated Cat Bed: Pet Magasin Cat Thermal Bed Self-Heating Pads

Pet Magasin Cat Thermal Bed Self-Heating Pads for Small Pets, [2-Pack Combo] One Medium (22' x 18.5') and One Small (17'' x 11'')

The other self-warming cat bed that you should consider is actually two self-warming cat heating pads!

The Pet Magasin Thermal Self-Heated Bed for cats is effective, easy to use, and a great bargain! When you purchase these self-heating mats, you get two different sizes.

The larger mat is 22 by 18½ inches and the other is 17 by 11 inches - so you can have one for different locations in your home!

This self-warming heated pad uses a layer of Mylar film to hold and reflect your cat’s body heat back to them.

It’s the same technology used in space suits and the thermal blankets used in mountain rescue. So it’s probably good enough for your cat!

Not to mention, it also helps protect them from the cold coming up through the floor.

For maximum comfort, the Pet Magasin has a soft, velvety cover and uses thick, hypoallergenic foam padding that is said to stay springy for years.

And, to keep it from slipping, it has a non-slip, rubberized bottom.

This mat is an affordable self-heated pet bed option that also comes with a 2-year warranty and a 100% money-back guarantee.

The only downside is that some users have reported that they have had issues when washing it.

Machine washing can damage the mylar film but if you hand wash, then these heating pads should last years.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Comes with two mats in two different sizes
  • Self-heating with a layer of Mylar film
  • Holds and reflects body heat
  • Insulates against cold from the floor
  • Cover is velvety and soft
  • Padding is thick and hypoallergenic

Cons

  • Issues when machine washing these mats
  • Hand wash only!

11. Best External Source Heated Cat Bed: Rosewood Bamboo Cat Radiator Bed

Bamboo Cat Furniture Radiator Bed

The Rosewood Bamboo Cat Radiator Bed isn’t really a heated cat bed at all - not even a self-warming one.

Nonetheless, it absolutely qualifies for inclusion in this roundup of heated cat beds because it definitely heats up (albeit from an external source) and retains its heat.

But, most importantly, every single cat that tried it totally adored it!

This cat radiator bed is made of one panel of strips of bamboo attached to a fabric backing.

To assemble the bed you wrap the bamboo sheet around the end caps and secure it with velcro. This creates a tunnel for your cat and a fleece cushion for the bed is included. It measures 15¾ by 11 by 19 inches and weighs just over 2½ pounds.

The tunnel can be accessed from either open end and there’s a large opening at the top for access or for your cat to peep out.

The bed then hangs over a radiator (the maximum depth it will fit is a little over 3 inches) and, obviously, the heat comes from the radiator itself.

It’s worth noting that lots of cat owners hang this bed on other furniture - not just radiators. As long as the hooks fit over, it will be secure.

As you can imagine, most cats love this radiator bed and our opinion is that it looks more stylish than the faux lambswool radiator beds you can get.

Our only concern was that it can appear that the velcro isn’t holding the bamboo in place very securely and a gap can open up where the sheet ends meet.

This was not ever an issue for us and we weren’t concerned that it might fail, but it could be a worry for a very large (or chunky) cat.

A simple solution would be to add more velcro to make the closure stronger.

Pros

  • Unique design of heated cat bed
  • Made of bamboo and eco-fiber
  • Easy to assemble
  • Roomy enough for large cats

Cons

  • No internal heater
  • Only fits radiators narrower than 3 inches
  • Velcro might not be strong enough for the chunkiest cats

Outdoor Heated Cat Beds (Outdoor Cat Houses)

We can’t conclude this roundup without talking about outdoor heated cat beds.

In fact, what that means in most situations is an outdoor heated cat house because there aren’t that many situations where you’ll want to leave a heated cat bed outside unprotected from the weather.

That’s why in our roundup of outdoor cat houses we do look at some heated cat beds that are suitable for use outdoors.

However, we do stress that you will almost certainly need to use them only inside some sort of weather protection, or under an awning or porch.

If your budget allows, the best approach for a heated bed for outdoor cats is to buy a heated cat house.

The fully enclosed nature of an outdoor cat house gives a lot more protection for cats living outside but also retains warmth better.

However, and this is most important to understand before buying one, it’s also the case that many outdoor cat houses are still not really waterproof.

outdoor heated cat bed

Almost all of the options sold as outdoor cat houses will struggle to cope with heavy weather (all those is in this roundup apart from the universally respected KittyTube which is our most recommended choice for a fully weatherproof outdoor cat house).

We have a separate roundup article dedicated to the outdoor cat house only and there are a lot of options that do offer high levels of weather protection.

Most of these are just the shelter part and an outdoor heated cat bed can be popped inside.

So, even if you opt for an outdoor heated cat house from this list it’s still best to place it somewhere it will have some shelter, or place it inside another more protective container.

In that sense, these are outdoor heated cat beds because they aren’t up to the same standard as we’d place on a fully weatherproof outdoor cat house, which is a different thing (and often has one of these inside!).

Again, this part of the cat bed market is dominated by K&H and five of our picks in this section come from them.

Their expertise makes all of their outdoor heated cat beds and outdoor heated cat houses excellent quality.

12. Best Outdoor Heated Cat Bed: K&H Products Heated Extreme Weather Outdoor Heated Kitty Pad

K&H Pet Products Heated Extreme Weather Cat Pad Outdoor, Waterproof Cat Heated Bed, Pet Warmer for Outside and Feral Cats, Indoor and Outdoor Warming Cat House Mat, Black Small 12.5x18.5in 40W

If you want the best outdoor heated cat bed then this is our top pick because it is the most rugged of the uncovered outdoor cat beds that K&H offers.

It’s specifically designed for a tougher life outdoors being made of rugged ABS plastic and with a protected steel-wrapped cord.

There’s a washable fleece cover to add some comfort.

This heating pad has a higher power heater than the K&H indoor range at 40 watts but is still very energy efficient.

It has K&H’s thermostatic control that only comes on when a cat is on it. The pad measures 18½ by 12½  inches and is enough for even the largest cat (and there is a smaller version called the ‘Petite’ available as well).

Whilst it has been designed to be water resistant and protected from the elements this outdoor heated cat bed needs to be used in a covered area such as a porch or barn.

If it is left out it should be fine on the odd occasion but is designed for sheltered areas.

Pros

  • Designed to be weather resistant
  • ABS plastic shell for outdoor use
  • Economical to run (leave on 24/7)
  • Steel wrapped chew resistant cable
  • Perfect for sheltered areas outdoors

Cons

  • Cable is only 5½ ft long

13. K&H Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed

K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pet Bed for Outdoor Cat House for Winter Insulated Waterproof, Chew Resistant Cord, Electric, Thermostatically Controlled, Orthopedic - Tan Small 18'x14'

If you’re looking for something smaller and a little cheaper, but still with the K&H expertise and quality, then this is also a little softer for your outdoor cats.

Unlike the Extreme bed above, this Lectro bed has its heating element wrapped in a therapeutic orthopedic foam and a wipe clean waterproof cover.

This makes for a softer outdoor cat bed and this is topped by a removable faux lambswool fleece cover (washable).

The smallest size at 14 by 18 inches is ideal for most cats, but there are larger sizes available too.

The thermostatic heating element runs at 20 watts and has the K&H eco-mode so it’s only working and drawing power when in use.

Although designed to cope in the outdoors this is a bed that is only truly suited to a covered outdoor space.

Pros

  • Softer outdoor cat bed design
  • Soft removable washable cover
  • Steel-wrapped anti-chew cable
  • Wipe clean weatherproof surface

Cons

  • Cable is only 5½ ft long

14. Best Outdoor Heated Cat House: KittyTube Gen 4 With Heating Pad

The Kitty Tube Pillow - Outdoor Insulated Cat House -Gen 4 Design

We have to include the KittyTube in this roundup even though really it’s an outdoor cat house and not an outdoor cat bed.

But, as you’ll see as you look at the (still excellent) K&H outdoor heated cat houses below, they aren’t doing the same job as the KittyTube.

The KittyTube is a fully insulated all-weather outdoor cat house that will stand up to the elements, no matter what.

You can put this shelter in the open and it will handle it - that said, we’d always put it by a wall or under the eaves if possible.

There’s an optional heating pad that makes this even toastier for outdoor kitties.

We're so impressed with the KittyTube as the best outdoor cat house that we have a full review and video here.

If you need a fully weatherproof outdoor cat house and have the budget, the KittyTube is the one to pick.

Pros

  • Warmest outdoor cat house on the market
  • High R-Value insulation on all surfaces
  • Well thought out waterproofing
  • Ventilation to let moisture escape
  • Secure restricted entrance
  • Simple design to blend into your garden
  • Shelter for up to 3 cats
  • Additional heating options

Cons

  • More expensive than the (inferior) competition
  • Some people struggle with assembly
  • Some water can get in under heavy weather

15. Best Outdoor Heated Cat House: K&H Products Thermo Mod Kitty Shelter Waterproof Outdoor Heated Cat House

K&H Pet Products Thermo Mod Kitty Shelter Waterproof Outdoor Heated Cat House 21' x 14' x 13'

All of the next three cat house designs we recommend are from K&H and they all suffer from one common issue.

Whilst they are designed for outdoor use and have some waterproofing and weather resistance do not be misled into thinking you can put them straight outside, plug in the heater and leave them to the elements.

They will not survive! Only the KittyTube can take that punishment.

However, once you accept that these are enclosed heated cat beds for outdoor cats you won’t be disappointed.

All you need to do is provide some additional cover or covering and they will provide the best heated outdoor home any cat would want.

Any of the three is a good choice, but we slightly prefer this curved zip-together design because it does have the best (but still limited) waterproofing.

It measures 21 by 14 by 13 inches and has the usual K&H thermostatic heater. In this case that is a 25-watt unit that is energy efficient.

The outer cover of this cat house is waterproof polyester which will keep some rain off but isn’t fully rain resistant.

The inside is fabric lined and there’s a removable pad for the heater.

If we were choosing an outdoor heated cat house other than the KittyTube, we’d choose this, but would place it under cover only.

Pros

  • Easy to assemble zip-up design
  • Semi-waterproof polyester outer cover
  • Removable fleece lined heating pad
  • 25-watt thermostatic heater
  • One-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Not fully weatherproof
  • Use under shelter

16. K&H Products Outdoor Heated Kitty House

K&H Pet Products Outdoor Heated Kitty House, Outdoor Cat House for Outside Community Cats, Strays, and Ferals, Insulated Shelter, Warming Cold Weather House with Heated Pad for Winter, Olive/Olive

The K&H Pet PRODUCTS Outdoor Heated Kitty House is an alternative great way to provide outdoor and feral kitties with a warm shelter, especially in the winter.

This heated cat house was made to use outdoors and is effective even in sub-zero temperatures, but as we’ve mentioned, do not expect this to be weatherproof.

It’s an excellent warm bed for use outdoors but will need additional protection from the elements.

The 20-watt heater is MET safety certified and comes with a 5.5-foot cord and is thermostatically controlled.

This heated cat house is also easy to assemble, has two exits that come with clear, removable door flaps for added protection from the elements, and the plush cover is removable and machine washable.

Pros

  • Provides warmth and shelter
  • Easy to assemble
  • Great for outdoor cats
  • 20 watt MET certified heater
  • Plush padding
  • Cover is machine washable
  • Comes with a one-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Even though it is for outdoor use, this cat house is not weatherproof

17. Best Outdoor Cat Bed for Multiple Cats: K&H Products Outdoor Multi-Kitty A-Frame

K&H Pet Products Heated Multi-Kitty A-Frame Outdoor Cat House, Feral Cat Shelter with Escape Door, Chocolate 35 X 20.5 X 20 Inches Heated

The K&H PET PRODUCTS Outdoor Multi-Kitty A-Frame is great for use by multiple outdoor cats.

The spacious A-frame design leaves plenty of room for multiple cats to snuggle up while the two clear, removable door flaps provide extra protection from the cold.

At 35 by 20½ by 20 inches, there’s room inside for up to 4 cats. 

The 40-watt heater is MET safety certified and works great in sub-zero temperatures so you can feel safe knowing your kitties are protected.

To make things even better, it is easy to assemble and comes with a limited one-year warranty.

On the downside, this cat house is not completely weatherproof. You still need added shelter to protect it from rain and snow.

Also, to clean it, you have to use a damp cloth. It is not machine washable.

Pros

  • Easy to assemble
  • Works great outdoors and with multiple cats
  • 40-watt heater is MET safety certified
  • Works well in the winter and sub-zero temperatures
  • Has two exits with clear, removable door flaps
  • One-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Not weatherproof
  • Only cleanable with a damp cloth

18. DIY Heated Cat Bed (Indoor or Outdoor)

Finally, there is another way to provide an excellent heated cat bed for your kitty, whether for use outdoors (under shelter) or indoors.

You know how much your cat loves a box of any kind. We all do.

So, why not simply make a bed from a box and add one of the heated pads to make your own DIY heated cat bed?

You could use the self-warming cat pad from Pet Magasin and simply place it in a sturdy cardboard box, perhaps with some other blankets puffed up around the sides (making sure your cat is actually laying on the self-warming pad to get the effect of the Mylar film).

Any kind of box or crate would be suitable, but if you decided to make your own DIY electric heated cat bed using one of the plugin warming pads such as the K&H Thermo Kitty mat, then we’d be careful about using a plug-in mat with a cardboard box.

We’d go for a wooden crate for indoor or outdoor and a plastic crate or styrofoam box for a DIY outdoor electric heated cat bed.

Just pop in the heated mat and you’ve got your own DIY heated cat bed.

In the UK, there’s a great company making personalised pet beds from apple crates which perfectly illustrates this idea and you can find them here.

Diy-heated-cat-bed

They only ship to the UK (and the crates are £25.99), but if you’re elsewhere, you can see how easy it is to make something really smart and functional for your cat.

Sure, you still have the cost of the heated pad, but with just a little effort you’ll have the perfect DIY heated cat bed just for you and your kitty.

Heated Cat Beds - Important Features to Consider

As we said right at the start of this guide to the best heated pet beds for cats, every cat owner knows that their cat will always seek out a warm spot for an extended snooze. That could be a radiator, a shaft of midday sunlight or, if you have some urgent work to do, right on top of your laptop keyboard…

That search for warmth is why a heated cat bed is such a great idea for any cat.

But, a heated bed is an especially good idea when the temperature drops, or if you have an older cat or one suffering from an ilness or injury. Or just an older cat. Any cat that needs that little bit of extra support is going to appreciate the all round warmth and security they’ll get from a heated cat bed.

So, what are the key things to look for?

Well, we’ve touched on a lot of things you want in a heated pet bed as we’ve gone down our list of top picks. 

But let’s recap and highlight some of them.

You should consider:

  • Do you want an electric heated cat bed or a self-warmning cat bed?
  • Will your heated cat bed be used indoors or outdoors?
  • Is there really any such thing as an outdoor heated cat bed that is truly weatherproof?
  • What’s the difference between a heated cat bed and a heating pad?
  • Does your cat prefer to be enclosed for more security or wants an open design for more freedom?
  • Does your cat want extra support from side bolsters? Do they like to curl up or spread out?
  • Is the cat bed (or at least the cover) removable and easy to wash?
  • Will your cat be able to easily get in and out?

Let’s look at some of these in more detail.

Electric Heated Cat Bed vs. Self-Warming Cat Bed

Heated pet beds work in one of two ways. They can either be self-heated or heated using electricity.

An electric heated cat bed will usually have a low-wattage heater that can be plugged into an electrical source.

Self-heated or self-warming pet beds use special fabrics and materials to trap and reflect your pet’s body heat to warm them up.

As we said earlier, we have focused this particular roundup guide on the electric cat bed, simply because we think that is the one that most people are thinking of when they are thinking ‘heated cat bed’.

Heated-cat-bed

That said, the self-warming cat bed is a perfectly good option and many of them are very effective.

It’s a simple fact that with those your cat is generating the heat and they don’t get that extra hit of external heat. But, for many, it’s enough.

Indoor Heated Cat Bed vs. Outdoor Heated Cat Bed

We established earlier in this group test that there really isn’t any such thing as an outdoor cat bed.

There are heated cat beds that you can use outdoors under cover. And then you move into the realms of outdoor cat houses which may or may not be heated.

And, in almost very case (apart from the KittyTube) you’ll need to add additional wetherproof preciuations over any outdoor heated cat bed or outdoor cat house.

Sometimes beds can be used in either location but most of the time, indoor heated pet beds aren’t really suited to even being used outdoors in a barn or garage unless they are designed for that.

In those situations pick ones of the beds we’ve noted above as suitable for ‘outdoor’ use.

One of the biggest differences between indoor and outdoor heated cat beds is the heat source.

Electric pet beds that are made for the outdoors are made to withstand the elements safely.

That means steel-wrapped cables and water rated electrics (up to a point). Also, a lot of outdoor pet beds and houses are the only types that include some kind of covering over the head, as well as doors and some weatherproofing, even if that is limited.

Heated Cat Bed vs. Cat Heating Pad

A heated cat mat or heating pad clearly fits the description of a heated cat bed. It’s a cushioned pad that your cat can curl up and sleep on - that makes it a bed.

But, as with the debate about electric vs self-warming, we feel that a heated cat bed is, in most people’s view, something with sides and maybe even a cover over the cat’s head.

electric-cat-bed

In essence the difference is that a bed will have sides and more soft padding around those sides. And it may have a more enclosed shape.

A cat warming pad or mat is a great choice for cats that like to spread out rather than those that like to curl up. And, if your cat likes to curl into a ball, then go for one of the more shaped beds with side bolsters.

Lastly, a heated pad is a great option if you are going to put the pad inside some other bed to make it a heated cat bed.

Washable

Obviously, choosing a bed that is at least partially washable (and machine washable at that) is going to make your life easier.

Whilst cats are generally very clean creatures a bed that they spend all their time in is going to get dirty over time.

Choose one that is easy to clean.

Power Cord

Electrically heated cat beds require a power cord and the length varies based on the bed and the size of the heater.

Outdoor beds also typically have longer and more weather-resistant power cords for safety.

Make sure the one you choose has a long enough and suitable cable for where you will place it.

Thermostat

The thermostat is typically what controls the temperature the bed heats to in electric pet beds.

Some thermostats you can control manually (as with an electric cat heating pad), but many adjust to your pet’s body temperature automatically.

These automatic thermostats take into consideration your pet’s body heat as well as the ambient air temperature.

Many of them (including all of the K&H designs we tested) also turn off when your pet is not laying down to save on electricity.

Size

Like regular cat beds, heated cat beds come in a variety of sizes.

They range from small to extra large which can accommodate one to multiple cats. Some heated cat beds also come with an overhead shelter.

electric heated cat bed

Shape

There are all kinds of heated cat bed shapes available, as well. Some are rectangular like typical beds.

This is a very common and popular shape, especially for just basic mats and pads.

However, there are some oval and circular-shaped pet beds.

These have the added bonus of being great for snuggling and burrowing in as many cats prefer. 

A pod is great for cats that like to be fully enclosed.

Padding

Heated pet beds use a wide variety of padding. Some are just stuffed with polyfill for softness and comfort. Others have orthopedic foam that provides great support.

As far as covers go, pet beds use different materials ranging from things like durable nylon to materials that provide comfort as well as added warmth, like faux fur or sherpa lambswool.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Heated Cat Bed and How Does it Work?

Heated cat beds heat your cat one of two ways: electrically or self-warming. The electric cat beds work via a heated element underneath the padding that is attached to a power cord.

All you have to do is plug them into a power outlet to use them.

The self-warming heated cat beds use special materials such as Mylar that are designed to absorb and reflect your cat’s body heat.

This keeps them all warm and snuggly without using a drop of electricity. Self-warming cat beds are even sometimes made of the same materials used to make spacesuits!

heated-pet-bed-for-cats
How Long Can I Leave a Heated Cat Bed Plugged in?

The way you use the heated cat bed really depends on the bed itself. Each one has its own operating instructions.

Some electric heated cat beds are safe to use 24/7 (including all the ones we recommend in this test).

These have specific safety measures in place to ensure that the electric components won’t overheat or catch on fire.

Others cannot be left plugged in all the time. Some should be unplugged if you are leaving for longer than a day or two and some can only be plugged in for up to 10 hours at a time.

It’s always a good idea to read the instruction manual thoroughly before you use it for the first time.

Are Heated Cat Beds Safe?

Many people worry about how safe electric heated cat beds are and that is understandable, but they are proven to be very safe and reliable.

The heater inside of electric cat beds only uses a few watts of electricity to operate.

And, most of them have an internal thermostat that keeps the bed warm but not too warm to do any damage.

Either to your cat or the bed itself.

Can I Wash a Heated Cat Bed?

Yes! Almost all heated cat beds are indeed washable. However, the way you wash a heated cat bed varies by each bed.

Most heated cat beds have removable covers that you can just throw in the washing machine. All you need to do is remove the heating element.

However, some cat beds are only washable via a spot treatment or wet cloth. Make sure to read the instructions that come with your bed before you wash it.

Heated-cat-bed

Heated Cat Beds - Which Is Best?

As you can see, there are all kinds of heated cat beds available to keep your feline friend warm, cozy, happy and safe.

This test covers all the options but focuses on the best electric heated cat beds. For that, we found that the K&H Thermo-Kitty Heated Heated Cat Bed is the best overall option.

It is easy to use, and extremely safe, and our cats made it their clear preference.

It also has a washable cover, comes in a variety of colors and sizes, and saves energy by turning off when your pet is away.

As we’ve made clear, if you choose any of the K&H electric heated cat beds you're making a great choice.

If a self-warming cat bed is the type of heated cat bed you want to go for then our overall pick is the PetSafe Aspen Self-Heated Cat Bed.

This has the all important space age reflective fabric, great comfy bolsters and a fluffy lambswool lining. Again, our cats loved this.

Do take on board our comments about the reality of the difference between an outdoor heated cat bed and a full blown outdoor cat house and realize the limitations of both.

But, having done that, do choose from those to make sure you give a heated option to cats outdoors - just make sure to think about weatherproofing.

If you follow all of these guidelines we’ve learnt from our testing you’ll be able to pick a great heated cat bed for every type of cat, whether indoor or outdoor.

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About the author

Jennifer Bridgers has been a freelance writer for several years. As a cat mom to two adorable cats herself, she loves diving into the world of cat care. When she isn’t busy dressing her cats in ridiculous outfits, Jennifer can be found crocheting, bingeing true crime documentaries and podcasts, reading fantasy novels, or writing a novel series of her own.

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