Pet Beds and Covers

There are a multitude of different pet beds on the market and for new owners the choice can be overwhelming.

Research

Speak to the breeder or person you purchased your pet from and find out what type of bedding the parents are used to sleeping on. They would have already found out what suited their own pets and this research will be invaluable to you. Read any books that are written about your pet or breed as these may point to the favoured bedding of the animal.

Cages and Crates

Years ago people would scorn at the use of cages and crates for pets but they have become an important part of most pet’s lives. These can be purchased in any shape and size and are easy to clean and fold down for storage or to move to another location. Many people use them in their cars to transport pets and they can be taken on holiday so the pet has somewhere to sleep that it is used to and is safe.

Although a cat or dog should not be kept in a cage all day long they are used by many animals as their own space to be able to retreat to when need be. If buying for a puppy do make sure that the puppy is trained to use the cage early on. Start with feeding the puppy inside the cage and making it warm and snug with a comfortable blanket and a few toys. Never under any circumstances tie a pet inside the cage or leave a lead on the animal as they can get caught up and strangle themselves in the effort to break free.

Washable

These days there are good value fleece fabric blankets that are ideal for cats and dogs. Originally called vet bedding it comes in a large range of colours and can be washed at high temperature so suitable for pets to give birth on. These fleeces can be tumbled dried in minutes or left on a radiator to dry. They are designed so that any moisture goes through the thick soft fleece and is absorbed into the strong backing material –keeping kittens, puppies and larger animals comfortable and dry. These blankets can be bought in many sizes or in large rolls so that you can cut them to fit beds and crates.

Many people use them as floor rugs in rooms that pets live as they are so convenient to keep clean and can co-ordinate with the room’s colour scheme. These fleeces can be bought at all pet stores and online auction sites.

Money Saving

As much of our clothing is made for fleece these days do not throw away garments when they are no longer required. Instead take off zips and buttons and use the flat pieces of fabric for bedding. Sew a few pieces together if a larger blanket is required. If you are changing the duvet on your bed cut up the old one into four or six pieces and stitch the edges securely to stop the stuffing from escaping and being chewed. You can make at least four dog or cat beds from one double duvet depending on the size of the dog.