Snug as a Bug: Choosing the Right Pet Bed and Furnishings

A pet bed is just a pet bed, right? …Er, not so much. In fact, like our own preferences for a bed or other furnishings around the house, your pet also needs an individualized approach to their bed and other home furnishings. This is not just a matter of ‘comfy and cozy’ alone, but also one of health and general well-being.

If you have wondered whether or not your pet’s bedding, pet food station, and other belongings are the best fit for their needs, the Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital team has some tips and recommendations for you!

Nighty-Nighty: All About Pet Beds

While your pet probably loves to lounge alongside you on the couch or in your bed, giving your pet a spot of their own is a good way to allow them space, safety, and comfort.

Choosing the right bed for this task involves a few considerations for your paw pal:

• Size – Your pet should neither be too big or too small. As a puppy or kitten, you might wish to look for a bed that your little one can grow into, but is not too big for them to assume it might also be a place to soil. Many adult cats and dogs prefer a bed that is ample enough to move around in and stretch without falling over the edge.
• Types of beds – Many kitties, and small dogs or short-haired breeds, often enjoy curling up in a sack or donut style bed that surrounds them. These donut-shaped beds allow your pet to stay warm and feel safe. Large breed dogs typically prefer to sprawl out on a flat pillow bed or raised cot. While these are general rules, of course, each individual pet will find his own preferred spot.
• Orthopedic beds – For senior pets and those with arthritis and other joint or back issues, an orthopedic bed will be one of the best choices for comfort and ease of movement / rest. Some beds also feature self-warming cushions for added relief.

Along with these features, some other choices include quality of the covering and filling, as well as durability and easy laundering for those who love to spend time outside.

Food & Water Bowls and Stations

When it comes to meal time, most pets just enjoy the meal more than the bowl it’s served in. However, your pet can benefit from the right bowls for your friend’s size and snarffling habits. Some plastic products can cause allergies and contain chemicals that should be avoided.

Most recommended bowls are stainless steel with a non-skid surface. Often,wide, shallow bowls are preferred for feeding and watering felines, who generally prefer to keep their whiskers clean and dry. Likewise many a pretty kitty is partial to water fountains over stagnant bowls, as they prefer the quality of water offered.

Elevated pet stations are generally advised for large-breed dogs who cannot comfortably bend over to reach a low lying bowl, or for those with joint degeneration and other spine and joint issues that affect their ability to bend.

We hope some of these considerations merit better choices for your best furry friends. If we can be of assistance and provide additional recommendations, please phone us!