Last Updated on 16/10/2025 by Liza Brits
Disclosure
We share trusted product recommendations through affiliate partnerships with leading brands. This means when you find something you love and purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) It’s our way of keeping the lights on while helping you discover the best smart pet tech products. 🐶😺
✨The Warmth Advantage: Health and Behavioral Benefits of a Heated Bed for Pets
A heated bed for pets or a heating pad for pets isn’t just about luxury, it’s about providing genuine comfort and support for your feline companion. The gentle, consistent warmth offers a surprising array of benefits that can significantly improve their well-being, especially during colder months.
- Soothing Arthritic Joints and Aches: Perhaps the most significant benefit for many pets, especially seniors, is the relief from joint pain. Just like humans, pets can develop arthritis. The heat increases blood circulation to stiff joints, reduces inflammation, and offers a therapeutic effect that can dramatically improve mobility and reduce discomfort. Your older pet might find it easier to move around after a good, warm nap.
- Aid in Post-Surgery or Illness Recovery: When a pet is recovering from surgery or battling an illness, maintaining a stable body temperature is crucial for healing. A heated bed provides the ideal environment, helping their body focus energy on recovery rather than trying to stay warm. It offers a comforting, safe space for them to recuperate peacefully.
- Improved Digestion and Relaxation: While less direct, a relaxed pet is often a healthier pet. The warmth can help muscles relax, potentially aiding in digestion and overall bodily functions. A comfortable pet is less likely to hold tension, leading to a more harmonious household.
- Ideal for Short-Haired Pets: Some dog and cat breeds have very little fur and struggle to retain body heat. Similarly, very lean pets can get cold easily. A heated pet bed provides the essential warmth they need to stay comfortable without expending extra energy.
- Redirection of Heat-Seeking Behavior: Does your cat constantly try to sleep on top of electronics, near heating vents, or hog the sunniest (and sometimes draftiest) window sills? A dedicated heated bed can redirect this natural heat-seeking behavior to a safe, comfortable, and consistent spot of their own. It prevents them from trying to warm up in potentially hazardous places.
🛏️ 7 Best Heated Beds for Pets
4 Best Heating Pads for Pets
These heating pads can either be used on their own as a pet bed, or be placed inside kennels, crates or in existing pet beds.
- MIXJOY Heating Pad for Pets
- PETNF Heating Pad for Pets
- Furrbaby Heating Pad for Pets
- AUPETEK Heating Pad for Pets
3 Best Heated Beds for Pets
🏆 Top 4 Heating Pads
1. MIXJOY Heating Pad for Pets (Sizes: S, M & L)
Best for: Indoor or outdoor areas that are covered, such as patios, garages, etc.
✅ Key Features
- 11 Adjustable Heat Levels (80-130℉) – Customize warmth for your pet.
- 1-24 Hour Timer & Always-On Mode – Energy-efficient and safe.
- Waterproof & Chew-Resistant Design – Ideal for indoor and outdoor use.
- Ultra-Soft, Washable Cover – Machine washable for easy cleaning.
- Sizes: Small (18” x 16”), Medium (28” x 16”), Large (35” x 24”).
❌ Considerations
❌ Requires electricity – not suitable for travel without power.
Reviews:
“This was a great comfort to our old cat in the last months of her life. She enjoyed the warmth. Timer works, and the constant on feature is almost exclusive to this product. The temperature setting is legible and works easily. This one is slightly more ecpensive than the others, but is worth the extra money.”
“I ordered this product for my senior (11+ years old) cat. He has a hard time staying warm since he’s lost muscle mass and always acts like he’s cold. I was keeping a small space heater going in the guest bedroom where he spends much of his time sleeping – but having this warming pad has been perfect for him. I like that I can adjust the temperature and time that it stays on so it’s always a warm place for him to sleep when he needs to.”
2. PETNF Heated Pet Bed (M & L Size)
Best for: Indoor or outdoor areas that are covered, such as patios, garages, etc.
✅ Key Features
- Auto Thermostatic Heating (100.4℉ – 107.6℉) – Maintains consistent warmth.
- Energy-Efficient (50W Power Consumption) – Saves electricity.
- Waterproof & Fireproof Design – Ideal for all-weather outdoor use.
- Self-Inflating for Extra Comfort – Softens after a few minutes.
- Sizes: Available in medium (19.7” x 11.8”) and Large (27.6” x 15.7”).
- Removable, machine washable cover
- Steel chew-guard on cord for protection.
❌ Considerations
❌ Requires electricity – not ideal for traveling with no power.
❌ Does not have a timer function. It stays on 24/7 when plugged in.
Reviews:
“My cats give it 5-stars, no question. It’s a nice sized pad, big enough for two grown cats that like each other. Certainly doesn’t get super warm, but it does get warm enough when the temperatures drops into the low 20’s. Enough to keep the cats happy. Always have at least one cat using the pad since the colder weather arrived. Not terribly expensive, so it seems like a win all around. The cloth cover washes up nicely, doesn’t shrink and looks good after a couple of machine washings.”
“This works great for our stray/feral cat colony. The husband built a 4 foot insulated house under our covered porch for the stray/feral cats during the winter. If you google cat warming beds, they are all so small! So we found this and it fit perfectly in. You’ll see 4-5 cats snuggling together on this bed. They love it! The heat is perfect.”
3. Furrbaby Heating Pad for Pets (Sizes: S, M, L)
Best for: Indoor or outdoor areas that are covered, such as patios, garages, etc.
✅ Key Features
- 5 Temperature Levels (68℉ – 122℉) – Customize warmth as needed.
- 5 Timer Settings (4h/8h/12h/24h/Always-On) – Auto shut-off for safety.
- Chew-Resistant Steel Cord – Prevents damage and electric shock.
- Waterproof & Scratch-Resistant Oxford Fabric – Durable and easy to clean.
- Sizes: Small (17” x 17”), Medium (24” x 16”), Large (34” x 24”).
❌ Considerations
❌ Requires electricity – not ideal for travel.
Reviews:
“I received the pet pad for my two Chihuahuas to lay on. I never close their crate door, especially when the heat pad is on. The dogs must be free to get off the heating pad if they need to for safety reasons. It has a timer setting with options from 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours. The pad itself is a waterproof canvas type material. I put a soft thin blanket over it so my Chihuahuas can be comfy and cozy while laying on it. It’s durable, thick, has a nice appearance, and a canvas texture. Fair value for the cost. My girls love it in the cooler weather.”
“Our old man has been obsessed with this since we set it up! I am a part time pet sitter, and saw how much a client loved hers for her senior kitty. I LOVE the always on function, and the heat settings are appropriate for pets (do read the instructions! It can’t stay on over a certain temp for more than 36 hrs). It seems well constructed and durable, and while instructions do recommend using a blanket, Max seems to be perfectly happy laying on it as is.”
4. AUPETEK Heating Pad (Sizes: S, M, L)
✅ Key Features
- Heating Pad: 50W MET safety certified and energy efficient.
- Temperature Range (95℉ – 108℉) – Warms to your pet’s normal body temperature and retains a constant temperature with the dual thermostat.
- Chew-Resistant Cord – Prevents damage and electric shock.
- Waterproof liner and machine washable cover.
- Material: Made with plush sherpa fabric for a soft and cozy bed.
- Sizes: Small – 20″ x 16″ x 18″ thick (up to 15 lbs), Medium – 23″ x 20″ x 1.8″ thick (up to 20 lbs), Large- 32″ x 20″ x 1.8″ thick (up to 35 Lbs).
❌ Considerations
❌ Requires electricity for heating.
Reviews:
“It’s such a gentle heat that I don’t worry she’ll get overheated, and she’s been using it since I got it 3-4 months ago right from the start.”
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen my cats love anything more than this bed. Totally worth it. It even turns off for half an hour and turns back on so your cats don’t overheat. Perfect.”
📊Comparison Table for Heating Pads for Pets
| Feature | MIXJOY | PETNF | Furrbaby | AUPETEK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature Control | 11 Levels (80-130℉) | Auto Thermostat (100.4℉-107.6℉) | 5 Levels (68℉-122℉) | Auto thermostat (95℉ – 108℉) |
| Timer Function | 1-24 Hour Timer & Always-On | No Timer | 4h/8h/12h/24h/Always-On | No Timer |
| Safety Features | Overheat protection | Fireproof material | Overheat protection | Overheat protection (MET Labs certified) |
| Cord Protection | Chew-resistant cover | Steel chew guard | Steel-encased cord | Chew-resistant cord |
| Waterproof Design | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cover Material | Plush fabric | Soft flannel fabric | Scratch-resistant Oxford fabric | Plush sherpa fabric |
| Best For | Indoor/outdoor covered areas | Indoor/outdoor covered areas | Indoor/outdoor covered areas | Indoor/outdoor covered areas |
🏆Best Heated Pet Beds
5. K&H Smart Heated Pet Bed
Best for: Indoor use for cats or small dogs.
✅ Key Features
- Smart Automatic Heating – Internal thermostat warms up to your pet’s body temperature only when your pet is in the bed.
- Energy Efficient: 4-watt removable heating pad. The bed can be used in all seasons.
- Easy to clean – Remove the heating pad and the bed is machine washable.
- Exceeds Safety Standards – Tested & certified by MET Labs and exceeds USA/CA electrical safety standards.
- Size: 18″L x 14″ W x 8″H.
❌ Considerations
❌ Requires electricity – not ideal for travel.
Reviews:
“I ordered this hoping my cat would sleep in this bed instead of on the furniture. I was not disappointed! It took a few days, but once Stormy figured out it was hers she hasn’t slept anywhere else. The size is perfect for my cat and the heat function keeps her comfortable and content.”
“Wonderful, soft cat bed. My kitty absolutely loves this bed and whatever room I am in and I bring it to, she will immediately get into it.”
“My senior cat absolutely loves this bed. He sleeps very deeply in it and is able to really stretch out due to the soft sides, or curl up, as he chooses. Looks very cozy.“
6. Rywell Heated Pet Bed
Best for: Indoor use for cats or small dogs.
✅ Key Features
- 2 available sizes: 23″ and 26″
- Heating Pad: The UL-certified and removable heating pad heats up to 100°F in 1 minute and keeps a constant comfortable heat for your pet. It has an auto-shut off feature to prevent overheating.
- Versatile Design: The soft lining and padding can be shaped into a castle look or into a cloud-shaped bed that supports your pet’s head and neck.
- Easy to clean – Take the heating pad out and the bed is machine washable.
- 42″ Chew-resistant cord
❌ Considerations
❌ Requires electricity for heating.
Reviews:
“My cat is obsessed with this bed! She’s always looking for the warmest spot in the house, and now she’s basically moved into the Rywell heated cat bed. It warms up quickly, stays at a comfy temperature, and the plush fabric makes it extra cozy. She’s so relaxed in it, I sometimes have to coax her out for meals. Definitely worth it for any cat who loves to stay warm!”
“So good quality and design! Cat immediately fell in love with it. Every time he is enjoying spending time there.”
“My little miniature pincher is always cold. She is 16 now and snuggles under blankets day and night to warm herself. I opened up this heated bed and within 5 minutes she was in it and fast asleep. She loves it! No extra blankets are needed and the cushion is soft to cuddle and sleep on. I cannot express how happy I am with this purchase, especially with the fall and cooling temperatures. I plan on buying her another one for downstairs too.”
7. CANMIL Heated Pet Bed
Best for: Indoor use for pets up to 20 lbs.
✅ Key Features
- Size: 20″L x 20″W x 6″TH.
- Removable Heating Pad: Low-wattage and energy efficient with 6 time settings (2H, 4H, 8H, 12H, 24H, always on) and 6 temperature levels (86°F – 131°F). The heating pad only warms to the set temperature when your pet is in the bed.
- Design & Comfort: Made with soft velvet fabric and high-quality soft PP cotton with raised rims that support the head and neck of your pet.
- Easy to clean – Remove the heating pad and the bed is machine washable.
- Chew-resistant cord
❌ Considerations
❌ Requires electricity for heating.
Reviews:
“My cat is a Scottish fold and loves the heated bed! Great for sore joints.”
“My cats love this!! I have 2 and they take turns laying in it so I’ve decided to buy another so they don’t have to wait their turn!! I thought from the look of the size both could fit but I guess my 3 yr old babies are too big . The quality is awesome and feels good to touch and warm. I love how it stays on so it’s always ready. Soft and durable. Excellent value. Excellent bed! Excellent size! Everyone should have this!! Thank you!”
“This is my 18 year old cats favorite thing (besides his Solensia). He has arthritis and he loves to sleep in this all day long. He’s super skinny now, so even at the lowest heat he has to get out from time to time and takes breaks to cool off. I do really think it helps his old joints feel better and he keeps going back to it. Total game changer for him.”
🔍 Comparison Table
| Feature | K&H | Rywell | CANMIL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature Control | Smart auto control | Smart auto control | 6 levels |
| Timer Function | No timer | No timer | 6 timer settings |
| Safety Features | MET Labs certified | Auto shut-off | Overheat protection |
| Cord Protection | Standard | Chew-resistant | Chew-resistant |
| Waterproof Design | No | No. | Inner waterproof cover |
| Cover Material | Soft, fluffy fabric | Ultra-soft lining & padding | Plush velvet |
| Best For | Indoor use | Indoor use | Indoor use |
🛒 Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Heated Bed for Pets
When shopping for a heated pet bed, consider the following features to ensure safety, comfort, and effectiveness:
1. Temperature Controls
Look for adjustable heat levels to suit your pet’s needs. Older pets or those with joint pain may benefit from slightly warmer settings.
2. Timer Functionality
A built-in timer allows you to set how long the heating pad stays on—great for overnight use or when you’re away.
3. Safety Features
Choose beds with overheat protection, auto shut-off, chew-resistant cords, and waterproof designs to ensure safe use, especially for pets with limited mobility.
4. Size & Shape
Ensure the bed fits your pet comfortably when fully stretched out. Some beds are designed for cats, others for larger breeds.
5. Portability & Power Source
Consider whether you need a travel-friendly or cordless option. Most heated beds require an electric outlet, which may not be suitable for use on the go.
Find out more about the 3 top cordless self-warming pet beds if you require a bed for travel.
❄️ Cold Weather Safety Tips for Outdoor Pets
Keeping your pet safe in colder temperatures involves more than just a heated bed. Here are essential tips:
- Insulate the Pet House: Add straw or thermal blankets around the heated bed to trap warmth.
- Use Safe Extension Cords: If your heated bed plugs in, use outdoor-rated cords and always protect the plug from rain and snow.
- Elevate the Shelter: Raise the bed or house slightly off the cold ground using pallets or bricks.
- Monitor Regularly: Check the temperature of the bed frequently and ensure your pet isn’t overheating.
Discover the best outdoor heated houses for cats here or the best outdoor heated dog houses here
📦 Setup Tips: Unboxing and Getting Started
Setting up your new heated pet bed correctly ensures maximum comfort and safety:
- Read Instructions Thoroughly: Each product comes with manufacturer safety and setup guides. Follow them step-by-step.
- Place the Bed on a Flat Surface: Avoid uneven ground which could create pressure points or damage the heating elements.
- Use with a Blanket or Cover: Some pets prefer an extra layer between them and the heat source for added comfort.
- Test Before Use: Plug it in and let it run for 15–30 minutes to confirm the heating element works properly before introducing your pet.
🧼 Cleaning & Maintenance Guide
Keeping your heated pet bed clean prolongs its lifespan and keeps your pet healthy:
1. Remove the Cover: Most heated beds come with a machine-washable cover. Remove and wash it according to the care label.
2. Spot Clean Heating Element Area: Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the non-removable parts. Avoid soaking the heating unit.
3. Air Dry Thoroughly: Ensure all parts are 100% dry before reassembling and plugging it back in.
4. Inspect Cords Monthly: Look for fraying or chew damage to maintain safety.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are heated pet beds safe for overnight use?
Yes, as long as the bed includes safety features like overheat protection and auto shut-off. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and supervise pets with mobility issues.
2. What temperature should a heated bed be for pets with arthritis?
Most heated beds offer adjustable temperatures. A range between 100°F and 110°F is typically safe and soothing for pets with joint pain.
3. Can I leave my pet alone with a heated bed on?
You can leave it on for short periods, provided the bed has a timer and overheat protection. Avoid extended unsupervised use if your pet tends to chew or has limited mobility.
4. Do heated pet beds help with joint pain in older pets?
Yes, gentle heat increases blood flow, soothes stiff joints, and improves mobility, especially in aging pets or those with arthritis.
5. What’s the difference between electric and self-warming beds?
Electric beds use a powered heating element for consistent warmth, while self-warming beds reflect body heat using special materials. Ideal for travel or pets that can’t use electrical devices.
You might also like:
PetSmartify is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate programs. We may earn a small commission from purchases (at NO additional cost to you)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon or any other retailer’s website at the time of purchase will apply.