Vet’s Guide to Getting Your Cat to Use a New Bed

You did it — you found the perfect cat bed. It’s soft. It’s stylish. It’s PURRZ-approved. But your cat? They sniff it once and go back to sleeping in a cardboard box.

Sound familiar? You're not alone. Cats are creatures of habit — and sometimes, even the coziest bed needs a little introduction. Here's how to get your cat to actually use their new bed — with proven steps that work (and no bribes required... okay, maybe a few treats).

Why Do Cats Reject New Beds?

• The bed smells unfamiliar
• It's in the wrong location
• Cats associate “safe sleep” with specific textures or routines
• Too squishy, too exposed, or too different from their norm

Don’t take it personally — this is normal feline behavior. But it’s fixable.

Step-by-Step: How to Introduce a New Cat Bed

1. Start with Familiar Scent

• Rub the bed with your cat’s favorite blanket or toy
• Place something from their current sleeping spot inside
• You can even use a worn T-shirt to add your scent

2. Pick the Right Location

• Put the bed where your cat already likes to nap (even temporarily)
• Quiet corners, sunlit floors, window perches = winning
• Avoid high-traffic areas or near litter/food

3. Reward Curiosity

• Sprinkle treats, silvervine, or catnip inside the bed
• Gently lure them in with a wand toy or teaser
• Give praise (and back off if they’re unsure)

4. Be Patient (But Consistent)

• Leave the bed in place for at least a week
• Don’t push or force use — cats don’t love ultimatums

PURRZ Beds That Transition Easily

3-In-1 Cave

Change it based on mood: an open bed for lounging, a closed cave for hiding, a seat for confidence. Ideal for picky sleepers who don’t like commitment.

Felt Caves

Provides enclosed comfort that holds her warmth. Great for cats who need safety and structure.

Flat Felt Pad

For cats that hate walls or beds that feel too fluffy — this one transitions seamlessly from floor to bed, and can be used as a liner in crates or carriers.

Extra Tricks (For the Stubborn Ones)

• Warm the bed slightly with a safe heat pad (especially in winter)
• Place the bed on top of or near a cardboard box at first, then slowly move it
• Pair it with feeding time or a treat session nearby to create positive associations

Vet Insight from Dr Duncan Houston

"Even confident cats are naturally cautious of change. It’s not the bed they dislike — it’s the newness. Familiar scent, location, and time are your best tools for building trust with a new sleep space."

Find the Right Bed for Your Cat’s Personality

• A felt cave – for introverts and anxious cats
• 3-In-1 Cave – for cats who like options
• A flat felt pad – for laid-back loungers

Shop the full comfort collection at PURRZ now