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Pet Beds
Bedroom Furniture for Cats and Dogs
Most pets need their sleep as much as we do - in the case of cats, a lot more than
we do! So it's not surprising that there are a large variety of beds available to
appeal to all sorts of pet - and owner. Most people buy beds for their cat or dog, however you
can get products designed for all sorts of animals, for example ferrets.
What Are Pet Beds?
A pet bed essentially provides the same basic functions as a human bed: it keeps the
occupant warm or cool as appropriate whilst providing support and comfort. A cosy bed can
also provide the pet with a feeling of security and personal space. Such a bed can vary from
something as simple as a pad or cushion through a wicker basket to a full-blown miniature
four-poster bed. You can even buy pet-size Murphy beds.
Whether pets actually appreciate the art and craft of a designer pet bed is open
to question. But why shouldn't they have a little upscale luxury? To many people their pet is part
of the family and deserves the best.
Remember that pets can be prone to shedding. This could have an effect on your choice of
design - what looks great in the store might not look so good after a few nights use if it
is of the wrong colour.
Choosing
Just as no two people are alike, so are no two animals. Make sure you buy a bed that is
appropriate for your pet, giving enough space and support. Don't buy something that looks
beautiful but is actually not large enough! Think about the needs of the
animal first - only then start looking for the product you find most attractive.
As with beds for humans, it normally pays to invest in quality.
From your own perspective you'll probably want to check that you buy a bed that's easily washable,
If your animal is old or sick then you might want to consider buying one of the
specially designed orthopedic pet beds on the market. If in any doubt, check with your vet as to what
would be the most suitable for your pet.
Luxury Pet Beds
As well as a variety of shapes, sizes and designs - from simple and functional to fancy
and unique - pet beds also come in a variety of
materials with a whole range of features to keep the animal warm or cool. Some models are heated,
alternatively you can heat a normal bed using a thermostatic pet bed
warmer. You can also buy cooling pet beds such as the Canine Cooler brand.
For the ultimate in comfort for a pampered pet, perhaps you might want to consider a bed or
mattress filled with memory foam. It's also possible to buy
a memory foam mat that you can add to an existing bed. Remember than many animals have a
more sensitive sense of smell than us so the new
foam smell
might be an issue.
If all that sounds rather excessive for a cat or dog then remember this: whilst your pet
is happily sleeping in its own bed it won't be trying to climb into yours!
All original material Copyright © Trevor Mendham 2003-2008. See home page for contact
details.
This is not a medical site. Nothing on this site constitutes personal advice.
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