How to size a bed for a cat or a dog

Most unused beds are the wrong size, not the wrong style. The measurement takes ten seconds.

Measure the animal, lying flat

Nose to the base of the tail, while they are stretched out asleep rather than curled. Add four to six inches. That is the internal length the bed needs.

Cats and dogs want different things

Cats usually prefer a bed that feels smaller than the owner expects — enclosed, with a raised rim to lean on. Dogs, particularly larger breeds, usually need more room than the owner buys, because they sleep stretched out more often than curled.

Donut, cave or mat

• Donut beds suit animals that curl and lean. The rim is the point.
• Cave beds suit cats that hide, and nervous animals in busy houses.
• Flat mats suit hot sleepers, older animals with stiff joints, and crates.

A note on compressed beds

Beds are often vacuum-compressed for shipping. A bed can arrive flatter than the photograph and take a day or two to loft back. That is normal and not a fault.