Realizing that the kitchen floor may not be the ideal, comfortable sleep surface that a pet deserves, many pet owners choose to buy pet beds. A pet bed is simply a bed for your pet. Pet beds differ from human beds in that they rest on the ground without a frame. Pet beds also lack sheets or blankets, but many have a coverlet that can be removed and laundered. Pet beds come in a wide variety of styles, sizes and materials.
Being that comfort and suitability with one's pet are the most important goals of a pet bed, some pet beds are shaped simply as a pillow while others have raised sides to provide an enclosure for the pet. "Cave" pet beds even have a soft arching top. It is important to note the size of the bed first when considering pet beds for your pet. If the bed is too small it won't fully serve its purpose, and if it's too large, your pet may not feel safe or relaxed.
Only second to the size of the bed comes comfort. Most pet beds are made of foam varying in quality and density. Some foam materials may lend themselves to your pet's comfort more than others. For instance, dogs with hip or joint problems can benefit from orthopedic pet beds. These beds use a special type of thick, convoluted foam, specially suited to reduce pressure points and ensure optimal comfort.
The covering of your pet bed should also be considered. Synthetic lambs wool may be more comfortable than vinyl, and cotton more comfortable than polyester. Check to see if the cover is removable for easing cleaning. Additionally, if your pet is going through a teething stage or tends to claw often, you may want to avoid certain materials that lend themselves to destruction. A fine example might be woolly material that can be easily pulled by teeth or claws, whereas fine-stitched cotton might be more resistant to snagging.
An alternative to the pet bed is the pet sofa. Pet sofas come in many sizes and resemble actual couches on a miniature scale. They can double as a "sofa bed" or they can be used simply as the "pet's furniture," sparing your own.
In addition to pet beds and pet sofas, there are also pet mats. These are similar to a carpet mat and provide little or no cushion against the floor. If the owner's floor is already carpeted then the pet mat may be a viable alternative. These mats merely provide a buffer between the carpet or floor and the pet, so that the floor beneath the mat does not become overused, scratched, discolored, faded or worn.
In the process of purchasing a pet bed, make sure to focus again upon size, comfort and quality of foam. Bedding for your pet should be restful, cozy and hassle free. In the end, whether it is a pet bed, orthopedic bed, pet sofa or pet mat that you choose to purchase, be sure that your pet will thank you.