21 DIY Cat Bed Ideas For 2026
How to Make a Comfortable DIY Cat Bed at Home?
To make a cat bed your pet will use, focus on comfort, not looks. Start with a soft base like an old blanket or towel. Cats like familiar smells, so use fabrics that carry your scent.
Make the bed have raised sides for your cat to lean against. Cats often feel safer when they have some pressure around them. Keep the bed cozy and snug, not big and open. Small spaces make cats feel secure.
What Can I Use Instead of a Cat Bed?
You might not need to buy a special bed. Look at where your cat already naps. A simple cardboard box with a blanket inside can be a perfect bed. Boxes hold heat well and feel safe.
An old sweater on a chair is cozy and smells like you. A drawer, a basket, or even a shelf with a towel can become a great resting spot. If it is warm, familiar, and a little enclosed, your cat will use it.
Felted Cave
A felted cave gives your cat privacy. The thick material holds warmth and blocks distractions. This is good for cats that get nervous easily. Put it on the floor near a wall or a sunny window.
You can make one by shaping wet wool over a round mold. Or you can form thick felt into a dome. Keep the entrance small so your cat feels safe inside.
Basket Nook
Cats like to be up high. A basket placed on its side gives them a raised spot to watch the room. The curved sides make them feel tucked in and secure.
This works well in kitchens or hallways. To make it, use a sturdy basket. Put a thick cushion or folded blanket inside for comfort.
Blanket Bolster
Some cats like to sprawl but still want boundaries. Rolled blankets on either side of a flat cushion create those borders. The rolls give them something soft to lean against.
This setup is good on hard floors or near a heater. The blankets add extra warmth where your cat sleeps.
Knit Nest
A knit nest is warm and has a nice weight to it. Thick yarn makes a cozy wall that traps heat. This type of bed is very soothing for cats.
It fits well in bedrooms or living rooms where your cat is relaxed. You can make it by arm knitting or crocheting with thick yarn into a big round shape. Make the sides high enough for curling up
Mini Bed
A tiny bed made just for your cat makes sleep feel special. The raised frame keeps out drafts. A soft mattress clearly says this spot is for resting.
Put this little bed in living areas or your bedroom if your cat likes to be near you. It shows them they have their own dedicated space.
Cone Cave
A cone-shaped bed blocks out light for a great hiding spot. The tall walls keep warmth in and the world out. It is perfect for sunny areas or near windows.
You can make one by cutting a triangle from foam or stiff fabric. Curve it into a cone shape and line the inside with a soft pad so the floor is not cold.
Plush Dome
Soft, padded walls help nervous cats relax. A plush dome cuts down on what they see, which calms them. The padded entrance still lets them peek out if they want.
This is a good bed for quiet corners or bedrooms. Use foam panels or thick batting wrapped in fleece. Add a little stuffing to the edges so it stays soft and round.
Bubble Lounger
Cats are curious. A clear bubble bed lets them see everything while feeling partly enclosed. The raised frame supports them and the curved shell is cozy.
This bed is great for sunny spots or busy rooms. Your cat can watch all the action from a comfortable perch.
Cushion Perch
An elevated cushion gives your cat a good view. The raised spot makes them feel secure in shared spaces. The cushioned sides support their body.
It works well in living rooms for a cat that wants to be near you but not disturbed. Just put a round, donut-shaped cushion on a low stool or a wooden stand.
Soft Shelter
A zipped hideaway is for cats that like dark, quiet places. The padded walls muffle sound. The arched opening lets them watch the room secretly.
This is ideal for busy homes. Make a dome from stiff felt or foam. You can add a zipper and line it with a soft, washable pad for easy cleaning.
Hooded Donut
A donut bed with a hood is deeply soft. The high hood blocks light. The round base lets your cat curl up tight for warmth and security.
This bed is perfect for cool areas or drafty floors. Sew fake fur fabric onto thick batting. Leave one side open so the hood hangs down, making a welcoming entrance.
Window Wave
Cats love sunlight. A curved lounger by the window turns sunbathing into a habit. The soft curves let your cat lay in many comfortable positions.
They can sprawl out or curl up while watching birds outside. Place it right next to a big window or glass door.
Hidden Ring
Sometimes cats just want to be nestled in something soft, not totally hidden. A bed with a big, soft rim gives neck and back support. The lower center is a snug spot to settle into.
This works in open plan rooms to give a sense of privacy. Start with a round foam base and build a thick, soft ring around the outside edge.
Hammock Loft
A fabric hammock molds to your cat’s body. The gentle swing can be soothing. Being up high keeps them away from busy feet on the floor.
It is perfect for rooms where your cat wants a prime watching spot. Stretch a strong fabric, like canvas, across a simple wooden frame to make it.
Cube Cave
A cube bed with strong lines feels solid and safe. The round inside is cozy and the frame keeps its shape. This design looks neat in modern homes.
It gives your cat a secure cave to sleep in, even in busy areas. The frame makes it sturdy so it does not wobble when they jump in.
Drawer Den
An unused drawer is already a great hiding spot for a cat. Pull the drawer out partway, line it with a towel or blanket, and leave a gap for them to climb in.
It becomes a quiet sleep zone. This works well in closets or bedrooms. Put rubber pads under the drawer so it does not slide when your cat jumps in.
Radiator Shelf
Cats are always looking for warmth. A wooden shelf safely mounted above a radiator makes a warm perch. It does not take up any floor space.
This is especially good in winter or for older cats with stiff joints. Put a thin cushion or fleece mat on the shelf so the heat is not too direct.
Suitcase Bed
An old suitcase feels like a ready-made nest. The hard sides are protective and the depth is perfect for curling up. Tuck it under a bed or in a guest room.
Line the inside with a soft blanket. First, take out any straps or buckles that could poke your cat.
Shelf Pad
Cats feel calm when they are up high. A simple wall shelf with a pad gives them a perch without a whole cat tree. This is great for living rooms or home offices.
Attach a non-slip mat and a thin cushion to a shelf you already have. Make sure it is securely mounted so it is safe.
Laundry Nest
Cats love to sleep on clean laundry because it is warm and smells like you. Use a laundry basket as their official bed instead of chasing them off the clothes.
Put a heavy towel or cushion in the bottom of a basket to weigh it down. This stops it from tipping over. Place it in your bedroom or laundry room.
Corner Cushion
Corners are naturally safe because walls are on two sides. A triangular cushion that fits right into a corner makes a perfect retreat. This is ideal for small apartments.
Make a wedge from foam and cover it with fabric that matches your room. It gives your cat a safe spot without being obvious.
FAQs
Can a DIY cat bed replace a store-bought one?
Yes, a DIY bed can often work better. Cats care about comfort, warmth, and familiar smells, not brand names. If you make a bed with materials your cat likes and put it where they nap, they will probably use it. The trick is to build the bed for your cat’s habits, not for how it looks.
How do I know if my cat actually likes the bed I made?
Watch your cat when you are not around. If they go to the bed on their own, knead the fabric, sleep there, and come back to it, they like it. If they avoid it, the problem might be the location, the size, or the smell. Try moving it to a favorite nap spot or adding a blanket that smells like you.
How to Make a Comfortable DIY Cat Bed at Home?
To make a cat bed your pet will use, focus on comfort, not looks. Start with a soft base like an old blanket or towel. Cats like familiar smells, so use fabrics that carry your scent.
Make the bed have raised sides for your cat to lean against. Cats often feel safer when they have some pressure around them. Keep the bed cozy and snug, not big and open. Small spaces make cats feel secure.
What Can I Use Instead of a Cat Bed?
You might not need to buy a special bed. Look at where your cat already naps. A simple cardboard box with a blanket inside can be a perfect bed. Boxes hold heat well and feel safe.
An old sweater on a chair is cozy and smells like you. A drawer, a basket, or even a shelf with a towel can become a great resting spot. If it is warm, familiar, and a little enclosed, your cat will use it.
Felted Cave
A felted cave gives your cat privacy. The thick material holds warmth and blocks distractions. This is good for cats that get nervous easily. Put it on the floor near a wall or a sunny window.
You can make one by shaping wet wool over a round mold. Or you can form thick felt into a dome. Keep the entrance small so your cat feels safe inside.
Basket Nook
Cats like to be up high. A basket placed on its side gives them a raised spot to watch the room. The curved sides make them feel tucked in and secure.
This works well in kitchens or hallways. To make it, use a sturdy basket. Put a thick cushion or folded blanket inside for comfort.
Blanket Bolster
Some cats like to sprawl but still want boundaries. Rolled blankets on either side of a flat cushion create those borders. The rolls give them something soft to lean against.
This setup is good on hard floors or near a heater. The blankets add extra warmth where your cat sleeps.
Knit Nest
A knit nest is warm and has a nice weight to it. Thick yarn makes a cozy wall that traps heat. This type of bed is very soothing for cats.
It fits well in bedrooms or living rooms where your cat is relaxed. You can make it by arm knitting or crocheting with thick yarn into a big round shape. Make the sides high enough for curling up.
Mini Bed
A tiny bed made just for your cat makes sleep feel special. The raised frame keeps out drafts. A soft mattress clearly says this spot is for resting.
Put this little bed in living areas or your bedroom if your cat likes to be near you. It shows them they have their own dedicated space.
Cone Cave
A cone-shaped bed blocks out light for a great hiding spot. The tall walls keep warmth in and the world out. It is perfect for sunny areas or near windows.
You can make one by cutting a triangle from foam or stiff fabric. Curve it into a cone shape and line the inside with a soft pad so the floor is not cold.
Plush Dome
Soft, padded walls help nervous cats relax. A plush dome cuts down on what they see, which calms them. The padded entrance still lets them peek out if they want.
This is a good bed for quiet corners or bedrooms. Use foam panels or thick batting wrapped in fleece. Add a little stuffing to the edges so it stays soft and round.
Bubble Lounger
Cats are curious. A clear bubble bed lets them see everything while feeling partly enclosed. The raised frame supports them and the curved shell is cozy.
This bed is great for sunny spots or busy rooms. Your cat can watch all the action from a comfortable perch.
Cushion Perch
An elevated cushion gives your cat a good view. The raised spot makes them feel secure in shared spaces. The cushioned sides support their body.
It works well in living rooms for a cat that wants to be near you but not disturbed. Just put a round, donut-shaped cushion on a low stool or a wooden stand.
Soft Shelter
A zipped hideaway is for cats that like dark, quiet places. The padded walls muffle sound. The arched opening lets them watch the room secretly.
This is ideal for busy homes. Make a dome from stiff felt or foam. You can add a zipper and line it with a soft, washable pad for easy cleaning.
Hooded Donut
A donut bed with a hood is deeply soft. The high hood blocks light. The round base lets your cat curl up tight for warmth and security.
This bed is perfect for cool areas or drafty floors. Sew fake fur fabric onto thick batting. Leave one side open so the hood hangs down, making a welcoming entrance.
Window Wave
Cats love sunlight. A curved lounger by the window turns sunbathing into a habit. The soft curves let your cat lay in many comfortable positions.
They can sprawl out or curl up while watching birds outside. Place it right next to a big window or glass door.
Hidden Ring
Sometimes cats just want to be nestled in something soft, not totally hidden. A bed with a big, soft rim gives neck and back support. The lower center is a snug spot to settle into.
This works in open plan rooms to give a sense of privacy. Start with a round foam base and build a thick, soft ring around the outside edge.
Hammock Loft
A fabric hammock molds to your cat’s body. The gentle swing can be soothing. Being up high keeps them away from busy feet on the floor.
It is perfect for rooms where your cat wants a prime watching spot. Stretch a strong fabric, like canvas, across a simple wooden frame to make it.
Cube Cave
A cube bed with strong lines feels solid and safe. The round inside is cozy and the frame keeps its shape. This design looks neat in modern homes.
It gives your cat a secure cave to sleep in, even in busy areas. The frame makes it sturdy so it does not wobble when they jump in.
Drawer Den
An unused drawer is already a great hiding spot for a cat. Pull the drawer out partway, line it with a towel or blanket, and leave a gap for them to climb in.
It becomes a quiet sleep zone. This works well in closets or bedrooms. Put rubber pads under the drawer so it does not slide when your cat jumps in.
Radiator Shelf
Cats are always looking for warmth. A wooden shelf safely mounted above a radiator makes a warm perch. It does not take up any floor space.
This is especially good in winter or for older cats with stiff joints. Put a thin cushion or fleece mat on the shelf so the heat is not too direct.
Suitcase Bed
An old suitcase feels like a ready-made nest. The hard sides are protective and the depth is perfect for curling up. Tuck it under a bed or in a guest room.
Line the inside with a soft blanket. First, take out any straps or buckles that could poke your cat.
Shelf Pad
Cats feel calm when they are up high. A simple wall shelf with a pad gives them a perch without a whole cat tree. This is great for living rooms or home offices.
Attach a non-slip mat and a thin cushion to a shelf you already have. Make sure it is securely mounted so it is safe.
Laundry Nest
Cats love to sleep on clean laundry because it is warm and smells like you. Use a laundry basket as their official bed instead of chasing them off the clothes.
Put a heavy towel or cushion in the bottom of a basket to weigh it down. This stops it from tipping over. Place it in your bedroom or laundry room.
Corner Cushion
Corners are naturally safe because walls are on two sides. A triangular cushion that fits right into a corner makes a perfect retreat. This is ideal for small apartments.
Make a wedge from foam and cover it with fabric that matches your room. It gives your cat a safe spot without being obvious.
FAQs
Can a DIY cat bed replace a store-bought one?
Yes, a DIY bed can often work better. Cats care about comfort, warmth, and familiar smells, not brand names. If you make a bed with materials your cat likes and put it where they nap, they will probably use it. The trick is to build the bed for your cat’s habits, not for how it looks.
How do I know if my cat actually likes the bed I made?
Watch your cat when you are not around. If they go to the bed on their own, knead the fabric, sleep there, and come back to it, they like it. If they avoid it, the problem might be the location, the size, or the smell. Try moving it to a favorite nap spot or adding a blanket that smells like you.
