Cat Bed Ottoman vs. Regular Cat Bed: Which Is Right for Your Home?

When you shop for a cat bed, you'll find two main types: regular cat beds, like cushions, donuts and caves, and furniture-style cat beds, such as ottomans, side tables and benches with a bed built in. Both can work well. The right choice depends on your space, your style and your cat.

What is a cat bed ottoman?

A cat bed ottoman is a piece of furniture with a pet bed built in. Usually the top works as a footrest, seat or side table, and the bed sits underneath, often enclosed or partly covered. It's designed to sit in your living room or bedroom like any other piece of furniture.

Regular cat bed: pros and cons

Pros

• Lower price.
• Easy to move around and wash.
• Lots of shapes and sizes to choose from.

Cons

• Takes up floor space without doing anything else.
• Often doesn't match the rest of the room, so it ends up hidden in a corner.
• Open beds may not feel secure enough for cats that like cover.

Cat bed ottoman: pros and cons

Pros

• Two pieces in one: a footrest or side table for you, and a bed for your pet, which is great for small spaces.
• Looks like furniture: it can sit in the middle of your living room instead of being tucked away.
• Den-like feel: the covered bed gives cats the sheltered spot many of them prefer.
• Keeps your pet close: because it can sit right by the sofa, your cat can nap next to you.

Cons

• Higher price than a basic bed.
• Bigger and heavier, so less easy to move.
• The bed cushion may not be removable, so cleaning is usually by vacuum or spot cleaning.

Which should you choose?

Choose a regular cat bed if you're on a tight budget, want something you can throw in the washing machine, or plan to move the bed around a lot.

Choose a cat bed ottoman if you're short on space, want pet furniture that matches your home, or your cat likes covered, den-style spots near you.

What to look for in a cat bed ottoman

• Bed size: make sure your cat or small dog can curl up comfortably.
• Stability: a solid frame matters if you'll rest your feet or put things on top.
• Fabric: textured fabrics like bouclé hide fur better and are easy to brush or vacuum.
• Airflow and view: an open or barred design lets your pet see out, which helps nervous cats feel safe.

Our Velura Pet Haven is a bouclé cat bed ottoman with a gold metal frame and a cosy bed underneath. Free US shipping and 30-day returns.