It’s no secret that cats tend to lie down wherever they find a cozy, warm spot. By nature, cats seek out warmth to keep their body temperature constant and save energy, which is why you’ll often find them soaking up the sun or curled up on a plush blanket. A heating pad made for cats can give your feline a comfortable spot to lay while also keeping him warm. It can even be a perfect spot for a new litter arrival.
We reviewed dozens of cat heading pads to identify the best of the best. Some of the features we considered in our search include ease of use, comfort, size, washability, and warming method. We also looked at safety, which encompasses several features, like chew-proof cords and fabric, automatic shut-off or timer, and durability, to keep your kitty safe.
Our top pick is the K&H Thermo-Kitty Mat, which stood out as the clear winner for its low-energy operation and comforting padding that can keep your cat cozy all day. We also love that the heater and cover are removable, making it a breeze to keep clean.Â
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Cat Heating Pads
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Cat Heating Pad Overall | K&H Thermo-Kitty Mat | 4.4 |
| Best Kitten Heating Pad | Pecute Pet Heating Pad | 4.5 |
| Best Budget Cat Heating Pad | Furhaven Self-Warming Pet Bed | 4.5 |
| Best Self Heating Pad for Cats | Focuspet Thermal Cat Mat | 4.4 |
| K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Heated Pad | K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Heated Pad | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Cat Heating Pad Overall: K&H Thermo-Kitty Mat
When it comes to a cat heating pad, you want your furry friend to feel safe and comfortable. The K&H Thermo-Kitty Mat is our top pick because it passes both tests with flying colors. This heated pad has soft foam that’s covered with soothing material to create a cozy resting area for your cat.
The real innovation of this mat, though, is in its heating technology. The bed never goes above 15 degrees over the ambient air temperature of the room until your cat lies down. As your cat lays on the mat, it will begin to warm his body temperature gradually. This means that it won’t be wasting energy or heating to unsafe temperatures. Instead, it brings your cat’s body temperature to a safe, comfortable zone while using minimal electricity.
Although this pad is cushioned, some cat owners prefer to place it on top of their cat beds to offer an extra layer of warmth and comfort to their regular beds. Because of its safe heating technology, you won’t need to worry about it heating the bedding to an unsafe temperature.
K&H Thermo-Kitty Mat Key Features:
- One-year warranty
- Uses only 6 watts of energy
- Removable and washable cover
- Removable heater
- Cushioned foam layer
Best Kitten Heating Pad: Pecute Pet Heating Pad
Kittens love a warm, toasty area to curl up on when they can’t be around Mom. The Pecute Pet Heating Pad is just the right size for kittens, and its fleece cover feels similar to a cat’s fur to help them feel more secure. You can also remove the cover to throw it in the washer and dryer.
This heating pad is particularly good for frisky kittens who love to play, scratch, and chew. The cord comes wrapped in stainless steel to keep it safe from chewers. The 8-layer construction of the pad keeps it durable and safe from harm, even during playtime. The heating elements are also waterproof, so common kitten messes won’t be a hazard.
Several reviewers praise this kitten heating pad as the perfect addition for their cats’ beds. A commonly mentioned pro is that it helps relieve cat joint pain from arthritis and old age.Â
Pecute Pet Heating Pad Key Features:
- Three sizesÂ
- Stainless steel-covered cord
- 24-hour automatic shut off
- Fire-retardant materials
- Flannel cover
Best Budget Cat Heating Pad: Furhaven Self-Warming Pet Bed
At just under $8, the Furhaven Self-Warming Pet Bed sits at the low end of the budget, yet offers a pleasant spot to keep your cat warm. This pad is a self-warming kind. Once your kitty lies down on it, the pad absorbs his natural body heat into the bedding, sprawling it out to give him an extra layer of heat. Because there’s no electric components, it may help to calm any fears you have about heating pad safety.
Despite its lower price tag, this pad is extremely soft and cushy, almost like how you’d expect a pet bed to feel. Your cat will love the faux fur covering with plenty of fluff underneath. Quilted seams keep the internal batting in place to prevent unevenly cushioned spots. Although the cover isn’t removable, the full pad is safe to wash in your washing machine as often as necessary.
Several cat owners who use this heating pad love that it’s large enough to keep their cats feeling comfortable, but it’s also easy to roll up or store out of the way when they’re not using it.
Furhaven Self-Warming Pet Bed Key Features:
- Several size and color options
- Won’t cause overheating
- Machine washable
- Quilted fabric to keep bedding in place
- Thin, portable, and easy to store
Best Self Heating Pad for Cats: Focuspet Thermal Cat Mat
If you’re interested in an electric-free heating pad to save energy costs, the Focuspet Thermal Cat Mat is an excellent option. This heating pad draws in your cat’s body temperature, stores it in the thermal internal layer, and then reflects it back out to the surface to keep your kitty about 4 degrees warmer than the ambient temperature. You can take the outer comfort layer off the pad to clean it without harming the internal layer that stores heat.
This pad may be best for kitties who like only light warmth or those who overheat easily. Unlike electric heating pads that can sometimes have difficult-to-control temperatures, this one only brings a few extra degrees of warmth to your cat – just enough to keep him cozy while still being safe. It’s also a good option to use on any type of surface or flooring that could become too hot with other pads.
Focuspet Thermal Cat Mat Key Features:
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Non-slip bottom
- Lamb cashmere external layer
- 5 layers of material
- Large surface area
Best Outdoor Heating Pad for Cats: K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Heated Pad
Outdoor heating pads for cats aren’t quite the same as indoor pads. The K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Heated Pad is designed for outdoor use with features that keep it safe and durable in virtually any weather for cats who love to roam outside. The pad itself has durable ABS plastic to keep it protected in the elements, while the steel-wrapped cord prevents your cat or other animals from chewing it.
This pad comes in two sizes, with the smaller option being ideal for fitting inside an outdoor cat house or on top of a porch chair. The larger size works for large cats or for use on a porch floor, garage, or anywhere else your cat likes to curl up. Each pad will heat to about 102-degrees Fahrenheit, keeping your furry feline all warmed up on even the chilliest days. K&H Pet Products provides a free fleece cover that’s safe for use with this pad to offer an extra layer of softness.Â
K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Heated Pad Key Features:
- Uses only 40 watts of power
- Made with waterproof rubber
- Heats up only when cat is using it
- No-chew cord
- Exceeds USA/CA electric safety standards
Who Should Buy a Cat Heating Pad
Unlike a heated cat bed, a heating pad for cats is designed to offer extra warmth wherever your cat likes to lounge. Heated pads are thin and portable, so you can use them on top of a cat bed, inside the bed, or on your cat’s favorite floor spot for a bit of extra cushion and heat. Some heated pads are even safe to use outdoors, so they’re perfect for outdoor cat houses.
Cat heating pads can be especially helpful for litters of kittens. Kittens need more warmth than adult cats, and Mom may not always be able to provide it for all her kittens. A heating pad can give them a cozy place to lay while the mother cat gets some rest, too. Elderly cats with joint pain may also experience relief when they curl up on a heating pad.
You might find a cat heating pad beneficial, too, if you don’t get a lot of natural sunlight through the windows in your home. Cats love warm, sunny areas, but a heating pad can be a good alternative on cloudy days or in rooms with limited sunlight.
Important Features to Consider
A cat heating pad should do a few things well. Here’s what to consider when selecting a cat heating pad for your furry feline:
- Type of heat. Cat heating pads can get heat from different sources, such as electricity, thermal technology, and microwave. For a pad that’s portable, microwave and thermal pads are best, as you won’t have to worry about finding a plug for the cord. However, electric heating pads will offer consistent heat for as long as you keep them running, unlike the other types of heating pads.
- Chew-safe cord. Most heating pads for cats come with a chew-safe cord that protects against shocks. If your cat’s a chewer, this is one feature you won’t want to skip.Â
- Size. Heating pads for cats come in a range of sizes. Some cats prefer to curl up in tiny spaces while others like to sprawl. Consider your kitty’s size and lounging preferences when looking at sizes. You’ll want to make sure he has plenty of room to lie down and move around on the pad to get comfortable.
- Washable fabric. Your cat is probably going to use his new heating pad frequently, so it’s important to find one that’s washable. Those with removable covers are easy to keep clean by tossing the covers in the wash. You might also consider a waterproof pad with a waterproof cover that you can quickly wipe down to clean.
- Indoor or outdoor use. Some heating pads are designed for safe use outdoors, which is beneficial for cats who like to hang around outside. Others are strictly indoor use only, so be sure to double-check the pad’s usability depending on where you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cat heating pad and how does it work?
A cat heating pad provides a warm place for cats to lay on. There are three primary types of heating pads for cats: Electric, thermal (also called self-heating or self-warming), and microwaveable. Electric heating pads are the most common. They have a cord that you plug into a wall outlet to operate the internal heater, which sends heat to the surface of the heating pad. Microwaveable heating pads are microwave-safe, allowing you to place them in your microwave oven to warm them up for temporary heat. A self-warming heating pad has a thermal filling that warms as it senses your cat’s body temperature.
Are heating pads safe for cats?
Heating pads that are designed for cats and/or pets are generally safe to use. These heating pads come with durable materials that can withstand scratching and chewing. They often come with chew-proof cords, too, to prevent cats from harming themselves. Most heating pads for cats also have heaters that won’t go above a specific temperature to ensure that your cat maintains a safe body temperature without the risk of overheating. If your cat often has accidents or you’re using the pad with kittens, it might be a good idea to get a waterproof one that can prevent fire risks.
Do cats like heating pads?
Some cats are finicky about there they lounge, so a heating pad may not be their ideal spot. However, most cats will welcome the extra warmth! If you notice your cat searching for any warm spot on the floor he can find, then you might want to try a heating pad that offers warmth and comfort.
Why do cats like heat so much?
You’ve probably noticed that your cat won’t hesitate to make a bed out of your freshly-dried laundry or find the one sunny spot on the floor from sunlight peeking through the curtains. Your cat isn’t the only one. Cats love soaking up warmth to help them regulate their body temperatures. When they use external heat, they don’t have to expend so much energy to warm themselves. They also like it for the same reason humans love blankets: warmth is comforting!
Other Cat Heating Pads We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other cat heating pads. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best cat heating pads list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your cat. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Indoor Cat Heating Pads
This cat heating pad has a low and high temperature setting to cater to every cat’s needs for warmth during the winter or all year ’round.
Key Features:
- Waterproof cover
- Heats in as little as three minutes
- Attractive cover
Cost: $18
K&H Pet Products Pet Bed Warmer
Stick this small heating pad in your cat’s bed to keep it toasty. It keeps the bed up to 15 degrees warmer than the air temperature – just enough for a safe body temperature raise.
Key Features:
- Convenient sizes to fit inside most cat beds
- Exceeds USA/CA electrical standards
- Even heating
Cost: $35
The removable cover on this indoor heating pad for cats can go in the washer to maintain cleanliness. Inside is a waterproof enclosure to keep the internal elements safe from moisture.
Key Features:
- Waterproof PVC enclosure
- Heats up to 109.4 degrees
- Flame retardant materials
Cost: $25
With two size options, this cat heating pad is perfect for any size cat, regardless of whether he likes to curl up or sprawl out in his lounging space.
Key Features:
- Steel cord
- One-year warranty
- Dual thermostat for even heating
Cost: $22
You can control the temperature and how long this pad heats for by using the convenient control pad attached to the chew-proof cord.
Key Features:
- Long 83-inch cord
- Fleece, machine-washable cover
- Timer and temperature control center
Cost: $28
This pad has a soft polyester cover and five inner layers that protect the heating elements from water and fire risks, so your cat can enjoy his bed stress-free.
Key Features:
- Heats for up to 12 hours
- Auto shut-off feature
- One-year guarantee
Cost: $23
Microwaveable Cat Heating Pads
Arf Pets Microwavable Pet Heating Pad
This small heating pad heats in the microwave in just a couple of minutes and can provide warmth for your cat for as long as eight hours.
Key Features:
- Small and very portable
- Washable cover
- Squishable gel texture
Cost: $18
K&H Pet Products Microwavable Pet Bed
Stick this pad in the microwave for a few minutes to activate the heating gel. You can then put it on top or inside of your cat’s bed or on his favorite spot to curl up to give him added warmth for up to 12 hours.
Key Features:
- Waterproof neoprene cover
- 9 inches by 9 inches
- One-year warranty
Cost: $30
Pet Fit For Life Cooling and Heating Gel Pad
This small gel pad fits conveniently inside even the smallest microwaves to heat fast for your furry feline. The cover is attached with Velcro, making it easy to remove and wash when needed.
Key Features:
- Cushioned and flexible gel
- Money-back guarantee
- Can go in the refrigerator to cool
Cost: $20
Snuggle Safe Microwave Pet Bed
This microwaveable heating pad for cats is on the thicker side to give your cat a super comfortable spot to lay on with up to 10 hours of warmth.
Key Features:
- Small enough to fit in most cat beds
- Heats in as little as 2.5 minutes
- Non-toxic Thermapol heating material
Cost: $27
Kitten Heating Pads
A new litter of kittens will love to cuddle up on this warming mat that heats quickly and has an overheating protection sensor that allows it to only start heating once your cats are on it.
Key Features:
- Waterproof and scratchproof
- Fireproof inner material
- Chew-resistant cord and frame stitching
Cost: $18
This small heating pad for cats has three heat settings, which is helpful for making sure sensitive kittens don’t overheat.Â
Key Features:
- Timer settings
- Scratch and chew-resistant cover
- 12-month warranty
Cost: $25
This pad measures less than one foot in diameter to offer a cozy area for kittens that won’t take up much space in your home.
Key Features:
- Waterproof cover
- Removable cover for washing
- 7 adjustable temperatures
Cost: $20
The dual thermostat inside this heating pad from NICREW ensures an even, all-over surface temperature, which is ideal for keeping a litter of kittens and their mom toasty.
Key Features:
- Fleece cover
- Steel-wrapped chew-proof cord
- Waterproof internal pad
Cost: $22
The slow-to-warm technology in this pad ensures that kittens won’t heat up too quickly. Seven adjustable temperatures make it possible for you to tweak the pad to their needs.
Key Features:
- Flame-retardant material
- Handy remote to control temperature
- Three color options
Cost: $24
Large Cat Heating Pads
Let your cat – or multiple cats – stretch out and cuddle up to this heating pad, which is available in three large sizes.
Key Features:
- Auto-off function
- Timers for up to 12 hours
- One-year guarantee
Cost: $29
Downtown Pet Supply Thermal Warming Bed
This large, self-warming mat for pets is perfect for cats who like a little extra heat to cozy up to and a large area to sprawl out on.
Key Features:
- Four patterns
- Foldable and portable
- Reversible sides
Cost: $10
Essentially Engineered Pet Heating Pad
This 28-inch by 18-inch pad can comfortably fit cats that like to stretch out when they lounge.
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- One-year replacement
- Two temperature settings
Cost: $25
Your cat will probably love this large pad, thanks to its three layers of refractory wool inside that keeps it plush and cushioned.
Key Features:
- Fireproof material
- Fully heats in 10 minutes
- Adjustable temperature control
Cost: $33
The Toozey Pet Heating Pad heats up to 131 degrees and has six temperature settings to find the purr-fect one for your cat. At 28 inches by 16 inches, it also gives your kitty plenty of room to relax.
Key Features:
- Heating wire is UL-certified
- Timer settings up to 24 hours
- Waterproof PVC internal layer
Cost: $32
