Cats sleep most of the time in a day and they love relaxation. It can be a sunny spot or chilly weather but comfort is always their priority. A simple cat blanket can elevate your feline friend’s sense of security and warmth. But it should be chosen properly. If you can provide a perfect coverup to your furry friend, it will make a world of difference for your cat’s comfort and well-being.
In this article we will learn what are the best blankets for cats and how to choose one of them for our pet. Also, we will know the tips to keep these things clean and where to get a reasonable and premium blanket for a cat.
Why Do Cats Need Blankets?
Felines love a cozy napping spot that is secure and can rest without any disturbance. Blankets offer a soft surface to lie on while also keeping the temperature of the body in check, most especially in the cold region or for the animals with short hairs. Many cats seem to enjoy the feel and smell of their blanket. It also becomes a source of comfort during times of stress, such as at the vet’s or when they have been moved into a new environment.
Besides comfort, blankets have a useful side. First, they protect the house furniture from hair and clawing, serving as a designated space for your cat’s use. Also, some materials, like self-heating blankets, could help quite a lot whenever it is cold outside and the cat is senior or arthritic.
Ultimately, a blanket for a cat is more than a cozy accessory; it’s an added layer of care for your feline family member.
Types of The Best Blankets for Cats
When it is talked about the top cat blankets, all are not created equal. Some popular types are considered the best and ideal for furry friends.
- Fleece Blankets
Lightweight and highly soft to touch, fleece blankets can be referred to as the best comfort for furry friends. Their plush texture elicits the warm lap sense, making them irresistible when it is time for napping. It’s also very easy to wash and very durable, which is an amazing aspect for a cat owner.
- Cotton Blankets
These blankets are made of cotton and will provide the breathable quality and coolness, especially into warmer climates or during the summer months. They are also hypoallergenic, which means they are not risky for any cats with sensitive skins. It can be laundered and washed rather easily in the washing machine.
- Self-Heating Blankets
A self heating blanket holds the body temperature of the cats when they hide into or snuggle on these. That’s why it is the perfect choice for the winter months or for kitty-cat companions with joint pain. The reflective materials of these blankets will reflect your cat’s body heat back to your cat, keeping it toasty without any electricity
- Weighted Blankets (for Cats with Anxiety)
Weighted blankets are not common for pets like they are for humans. However, some of the thinner weighted types do provide a sense of security to anxious cats. Just remember not to overweight the blanket. It should be appropriate for the size of the cat.
- Wool or Sherpa-Style Blankets
The blankets made of wool or sherpa materials are ideal for felines who love to knead or suck on soft surfaces. The textured material offers a satisfying surface for their paws while keeping them warm and snug.
Consideration When Choosing a Blanket for a Cat
When selecting the perfect blanket, it’s important to think about both your cat’s needs and your own convenience. Here are the major items to be examined.
- Size
Select a blanket that is sufficiently spacious for your cat to lounge on, yet not overly large not to seem intimidating. In case you are planning on moving it about by putting it in carriers or on specified spots like the sofa or bed, it could also be a good idea to consider smaller options.
- Material
Cats are particular about textures! Pick the fabrics that they would find soft and inviting, namely fleece, cotton, or Sherpa. Avoid anything too heavy or fuzzy for fear of inducing overheating.
- Safety
The blanket should be free of any loose threads or attachments that can cause strangulation hazards. Do not use any blankets with fringe or tassels because they tend to be tempting for chewing or scratching.
- Washability
Cats are clean animals, and still, their blankets will get dirty with fur, dirt, or occasional accidents. Machine-washable blankets are just a blessing to keep the house and the pets in it clean.
- Durability
If your cat loves to knead or play rough, then choose a blanket that can handle claws and paws. While high-quality fleece blankets work great in terms of durability, you might want to avoid them if your cat is very rough with its toys.
Choosing the Best Blanket for Cats
When selecting a cat blanket, a variety of options exist to suit diverse needs and preferences. The material, size, safety, and ease of maintenance, all crucial elements, have been previously discussed.
Retailers such as Catspo offer a range of cat blankets, featuring materials like fleece and wool. Available sizes cater to various cat beds and carriers. Materials are often selected for pet safety, with a focus on non-toxic, hypoallergenic options. Machine-washable designs are common for ease of maintenance, and durable construction aims to withstand scratching and kneading.
Ultimately, prioritizing the pet’s preference and selecting an appropriate match is essential.
Cat Strange Behaviours Regarding Blankets
Feline friends have many strange yet adorable behaviours regarding blankets. Some are:
- Kneading (Making Biscuits): This adorable activity, referred to as “making biscuits,” finds a cat rhythmically pushing its paws against a soft surface (like a blanket). This behavior presumably stems from the cat’s infant days, when it kneaded its mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. Usually, the act signifies comfort and pleasure, and a soft purring may accompany it. These cats might also be marking their territory, as they have scent glands in their paws..
- Sucking (Nursing Behaviour): Your cat will suck or lick on a soft piece of fabric, often fleece or wool for that well-known nursing behavior. The reason why your cat licks on blankets is mainly because weaned too early in their life or among those who are under stress. It’s a behavior that makes the pet feel at ease and secure, just like when he was still very young with his mother.
- Hiding (Seeking Shelter): Actually, cats are born as hunters and prey, and they love to stay in closed spaces for safety and security. This is especially suitable for cradling an inaccessible spot, under blankets, and this makes the cats reach a protected, if not entirely concealed standing position. Under the blankets, they might snooze, play, or just observe everything around them. More so when they are feeling anxious or overstimulated.
- Blanket Aggression: If a cat is playing with its blanket, it may respond aggressively at times, particularly if the cat feels threatened. It will usually swat, scratch, and bite the blanket as if it were its prey. Typically this is a playful interaction without any serious intent to harm, though it should be monitored so that things do not get out of hand.
Care and Maintenance of Cat Blankets
Maintaining a clean and fresh blanket is just as important for your feline friend’s comfort and health. Here are some pro tips on keeping one in the best shape possible.
- Wash Regularly: To rid the blanket of fur, dander, and odor, wash it potentially every 1 to 2 weeks. Use a mild detergent free of harsh chemicals or perfumes that may irritate your cat’s skin or senses.
- Spot Clean for Quick Fixes: For feeding, cats need a private place where they feel happy and secure.
- Use a Lint Roller: Use a lint roller or tape to get rid of fur shoddily until you throw those garments into the washer.
- Inspect for Wear and Tear: Make time to inspect the blanket at intervals for any missing threads, holes, and the likes; this is particularly imperative if your feline is an intense kneader. Replace it as and when needed to prevent safety hazards.
- Rotate Blankets: To maintain a clean one, consider keeping two blankets there on the couch since a well-loved, drooled-upon cover will always be quite gross; this will ensure kitty will gravitate toward a second fluffy soft throw, in hopes of kneading, purring.
Wrapping Up the Purr-fect Choice
A good blanket is more than a treat. It is an integral element to your cat’s comfort and happiness. From a soft fleece option to a cool cotton blend and an ultra-modern self-heating pad, anything you decide for your cat will prove some extra care and a little comfort on top of it all.
Take the time to consider their specific personality and preferences when making your purchase. After all, a content cat leads to a joyful home!
