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When a cat bed becomes a favorite spot

Stories about the RONDO Felt Stand and its little inhabitants

You can design a cat bed. You can think about shapes, choose materials, coordinate colors and fine-tune details until everything is exactly how you imagined it.

And then a cat comes.

She sniffs. She looks. She thinks. Maybe she’ll first walk around the new piece of furniture with that incomparable mix of curiosity and noble skepticism that only cats can master.

And at some point she decides: This is mine now.

It is precisely these moments that always touch us at pet-interiors.

 

Katze Amie im Design Katzenbett Rondo Stand Filz von pet-interiors

Product: Rondo Stand (light grey felt), cushion color: graphite

We are very happy with the Rondo and the Bowl… even though our “headstrong” cat uses the two pieces in somewhat unconventional ways.
The Bowl is used for playing and roughhousing… and the Rondo serves as a vantage point for watching the garden.

 

 

A RONDO is conquered

We receive a great many stories like this regarding our RONDO Stand Felt. To us, it is a piece of cat furniture that combines design, a cozy retreat, lounging comfort, and a scratching surface. For cats, however, the matter seems much simpler:

It is their spot.

One customer, for instance, told us that it took less than two minutes for his cats to claim the new RONDO. Lying inside? Wonderful. Sitting on top? Just as good.

Other cats discover the RONDO to be their own private viewing perch. After all, the top offers an excellent vantage point for watching what humans, birds, and the rest of the world are up to.

 

 

 

Heidi und Olga turnen, klettern uns spielen im Rondo Katzenbett

Product: RONDO floor-standing model (cream felt, cream cushion, grey scratching sleeve)
We are all absolutely delighted with this beautiful piece!
Even unpacking and assembling it was quite exciting… and then
seeing it for the first time!

 

 

Design for people. A sense of security for cats.

With the RONDO, we never set out to create just another cat bed.

We wanted to design a retreat that cats instinctively love—and one that their owners wouldn’t want to hide away in the furthest corner of the house.

The natural character of the felt, the soft curves, and the elevated position give the RONDO an almost sculptural presence. At the same time, it creates a small, sheltered world within.

Perhaps that is precisely its secret:

To us, it is design. To the cat, it is home.

 

 

Igor und Ina im Rondo Stand Filz von pet-interiors

RONDO stand in cream felt, cream cushion
Ina and Igor took to the cat beds right from the start—using them for both sleeping and playing. They are particularly fond of the fringed Crown cat basket for playtime; because it is so large and soft, they make running leaps into it, turn somersaults, hide underneath, and wrestle (playfully, of course). But as you can see in the photos, both cats also sleep in the basket.

 

 

To us, it’s design. To the cat, it’s home.

And when we receive photos of cats slumbering peacefully, peering out curiously, or sitting majestically enthroned at the top, we are reminded of why we do what we do.

Because, ultimately, the best cat furniture is the kind that isn’t chosen by us.

But by the cats.

 

 

 

Design Katzenbett Rondo Stand Filz von pet-interiors

The elevated resting spot RONDO: Minimalist forms and natural materials for a timeless look.

Cat bed for large cats

Cat bed for large cats

Cats love a sense of security—but they want to decide for themselves how they lie down. Large cat breeds, in particular, quickly outgrow conventional cat baskets. A spacious XXL cat bed gives them freedom of movement while still offering a sheltered retreat.

Cats and the heat – cooling down your furry friend

getigerte Hauskatze mit weißer Brust liegt im schattigen Gras

In the heat of summer, a cool shady spot under trees is ideal for your house cat.

Cats and heat. How do I cool down my cat?

As descendants of steppe dwellers, our cats love warmth and summer. Unlike their ancestors, heat is not all that good for your cat. Hot summer days are a big challenge for your house cat. You can read here how you can make life bearable for your house cat in summer and cool down your cat.

How do cats cope with high temperatures?

As a rule, cats react to heat with lethargy. They move much less in hot weather and look for a cool, shady place to retreat to. This only helps to a limited extent when it is too hot. Cats have far fewer sweat glands than humans and therefore cannot regulate their heat balance by sweating. Like dogs, cats try to cool down by panting. They also groom themselves more often because saliva moistens their fur and provides evaporative cooling.

Our tips will help you to make your house cat as comfortable as possible in hot temperatures.

Keep your fur moist to keep cool.

As already mentioned, cats use the evaporative coolness of their saliva to cool down. Help your house cat by moistening a washcloth and stroking your cat’s fur. It also helps to stroke the cat with wet hands every now and then. The positive side effect is that the cat grooms itself less and loses less fluid through saliva.

Make sure there is a shady and cool place.

Outdoor cats will independently find suitable, shady places to retreat to in the garden. It is a little more difficult for house cats in the house. A cool place in the basement or on the tiles in the bathroom is a good option. There are also special cooling mats for animals. These are self-cooling and dissipate heat very well. Airing out in the early morning and late evening also helps to cool down the living room. Shade the apartment during the day with roller shutters and blinds. Ideally, your house cat has a balcony secured with a net, where it can find a shady spot under plants. Please pay attention to the plants, as many of the widely used ornamental plants are poisonous to our cats. Here you will find an article on the subject of poisonous plants and a list to download. Setting up fans is not suitable. Cats can quickly catch conjunctivitis from the constant draft.

Adjust the outdoor time to the outside temperature.

If possible, cats should stay indoors during the worst of the midday heat. The risk of suffering heat stroke or sunburn is greatest in the strong summer heat at midday. If possible, make sure that your cat only stays outside in the early morning and late evening. Most house cats sort this out on their own, just make sure that the cat has access to a cool place in the house at all times.

How do I recognize heat stroke in my cat?

If the body temperature rises above 39°C and the animal shows restless behavior, this indicates heat stroke. Dark red gums, heavy panting and apathetic lying on the stomach are further signs. If you see these signs, you should see a vet immediately.

The right food is also important so that the cat can tolerate heat better.

As is well known, cats don’t like to drink much. That’s why it’s advisable to offer wet food on hot days. This will help with fluid intake. During particularly hot days, your house cat needs less food than usual, as calorie consumption drops due to reduced physical activity. Give your pet food in small portions spread out over the day. Clear away any leftovers straight away. The food spoils quickly on hot days and you will otherwise attract flies.

How do I encourage my cat to drink?

Drinking on hot days is much more important than the right food. To ensure that the cat drinks enough fluids, place lots of water bowls in and around the house and apartment. If your cat doesn’t like drinking, you can put some tuna infusion in the water bowl to add flavor. Unseasoned chicken broth also flavors the water and encourages drinking. Some house cats love to drink from indoor fountains or the faucet. A water fountain in the living room also ensures a good indoor climate.

Are insects and parasites more dangerous in summer?

Check your outdoor cat daily and remove ticks, fleas or mites immediately. Other insects are also unpleasant in summer. But don’t use insecticides because cats are very sensitive to insecticides. It’s better to equip your home with fly screens to keep the stinging pests outside.

Cat bed for large cats

Cat bed for large cats

Cats love a sense of security—but they want to decide for themselves how they lie down. Large cat breeds, in particular, quickly outgrow conventional cat baskets. A spacious XXL cat bed gives them freedom of movement while still offering a sheltered retreat.

The Right Litter Box

Poopoopeedo in black

With today’s large and diverse selection, the question arises: which is the right litter box for my house cat? Even the most beautiful and expensive litter box can cause problems. Cats are sensitive creatures, and even the smallest things can irritate them and cause them to become unclean. I hope my tips can help.

The right place

We know this from our own experience: the litter box should be a pleasant and quiet place. Cats want to feel safe and be able to do their business undisturbed. The litter box must be easily accessible to your cat at all times and protected from unpleasant surprises. No cat likes it when the washing machine spins right next door. A carelessly opened bedroom door that rattles against the litter box is also not conducive to a relaxing toilet break.

Of course, it’s been said that the litter box should be placed far away from the feeding area, preferably in different rooms.

The right shape

Cats need plenty of room to move when using the toilet; after all, their waste needs to be buried thoroughly. This means the litter box should be a good size and definitely not too small. Some cats absolutely hate having to relieve themselves in a cave or an enclosed, narrow space. For these animals, litter boxes without lids and flaps are the right choice. With a closed litter box, it is essential to ensure good air circulation. Cats are sensitive to odors and will refuse litter boxes where the “steam” cannot escape properly.

Equally important as ventilation is freedom of movement. Cats do not want to use litter boxes that are too small. They need to be able to turn around in the litter box to bury their waste properly and thoroughly. Some cats also want to avoid their waste or want to place their bowel movements in different corners. Some male cats are “stand-up urinators” who require a special height for this type of toileting.

We’ve provided our Gisela with two litter boxes: an open one and a closed one. Strangely enough, she uses them differently: the open one for urinating, the closed one for doing her business. If you have the opportunity, try it out and let the animal decide.

Proper cleaning

Cats are very clean animals, so the litter box should be cleaned daily. Some cats won’t use the litter box again until their last bowel movement has been eliminated. Here, too, it’s important to observe the cat to find the right cleaning routine.

The optimal number

In nature, cats don’t always go to the same place to do their business. Given this, the rule of thumb is to install one more litter box than the number of cats living in the household.

The cat refuses to use the toilet

If you follow all the tips and your cat still refuses to use the litter box, you should first consult your veterinarian to determine if there’s a physical cause, such as a bladder infection. Then you’ll need to consider other possibilities. One reason for not using the right litter box could be the wrong type of cat litter. More on this in my next post.

Cat bed for large cats

Cat bed for large cats

Cats love a sense of security—but they want to decide for themselves how they lie down. Large cat breeds, in particular, quickly outgrow conventional cat baskets. A spacious XXL cat bed gives them freedom of movement while still offering a sheltered retreat.

Which cat is best suited to me?

tabby domestic cat in portrait

House cat Gisela is a typical shelter cat.

The decision has been made: a cat should enrich our lives and move in. But which cat breed is best suited to me? Each breed has different personality traits and needs. It’s important to carefully consider what conditions I can offer a cat. What do I expect from living with my new roommate? Because one thing is clear: not every cat breed is right for everyone.

Before your house cat moves in with you, you should consider whether you can meet the needs of the particular cat breed. Some breeds are very independent and freedom-loving, while others are calm and happy as indoor cats. Also, think carefully about what type of cat you’re actually looking for.

 

Answering these questions honestly will help you narrow down the cat breeds that are right for you.

How much space do I have?

If you live in a city apartment without a balcony or garden, quiet, people-oriented breeds such as the Ragdoll or Bombay are suitable. These are relatively quiet indoor cats with smooth and elegant movements. They are considered friendly, even-tempered, curious, and affectionate. They can follow people everywhere and are well-suited to children.

Ragdolls - cat race

Ragdolls are very people-oriented and are well suited to a city apartment.

Can I offer my cat free access?

If you can allow your cat to roam freely, a Norwegian Forest Cat, a European Shorthair, or a traditional domestic cat is more suitable. These active and freedom-loving animals love to roam in the garden and outdoors and lead an independent cat life. They have a great temperament and retain their playful nature well into old age.

How much time do I have and how much of it do I spend at home?

Many cats enjoy being in company and hate being alone. If no one in your household is at home all day to talk to, it’s advisable to keep a second or more cats. The Siamese or Balinese prefers to spend time with its feeder rather than with other cats. This breed of cat is very affectionate and reluctant to share attention with other creatures. They are strong-willed and assertive. They must be able to devote plenty of time to care and attention. Grooming long-haired cats like the Persian is just as time-consuming. Daily, thorough grooming is necessary and time-consuming.

Siamese cats with designer bed from pet.interiors

Siamese cats are considered to be entertaining cats and enjoy talking to their owners.

Which character trait is important?

The decision should definitely not be based on appearance, but rather on the personality traits the new pet brings to the table. A lively and adaptable breed like the Selkirk Rex, Ocicat, or Singapura thrives in a lively family. If you lead a quiet, stress-free, and structured life, the Korat, Snowshoe, and Nebelung are the right companions.

How much experience do I have with cats?

If you’re new to cats, you should choose a sociable breed like the German Angora or the Raga Muffin. In that case, it’s not advisable to choose a Balinese or Russian Blue. These breeds are considered stubborn and not suitable for beginners.

Purebred Russian Blue cat in designer cat basket | pet.interiors

The Russian Blue cat is not a good choice as a beginner’s cat.

How much communication is possible with a cat?

You should also consider whether you want a cat that communicates with you. A Siamese or Sokoke is considered quite talkative. If you’re bothered by constant meowing and whining, you might want to opt for a quiet Devon Rex or Siberian cat.

Domestic cat or would you prefer a pedigree cat?

Domestic cats are considered to be healthy and less susceptible to disease. The selection of colors and patterns is large and varied. When you give a new home to a feline from a shelter, you’re also doing a good deed. There are countless domestic cats, including kittens, waiting in shelters for their beloved pet. Domestic cats generally have a strong desire for freedom, which they enjoy pursuing in a garden or in nature.

Pedigree cats, on the other hand, require more care and are more susceptible to breed-specific illnesses. It’s all the more easy to assess their character traits before purchasing. A breeder must be chosen carefully to avoid falling victim to a seller who engages in illegal breeding or unscrupulous breeding.

 

House cat Fynn with beautiful markings

Fynn is a beautiful house cat with great markings.

If everything is right, then living together will be great!

Consider all important factors such as space, time, environment, temperament, and noise level. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. A temperamental cat in a much too small apartment, or a reserved animal in a noisy extended family, won’t be happy. Cats can react aggressively or apathetically to the wrong living conditions, which in turn makes the cat owner unhappy.

A well-considered choice of cat that perfectly fits your living situation will enrich your life indescribably. They will quickly become very good friends and remain so for life.

Weimaraner with Norwegian Forest Cats

If everything is correct, they can even live together with Weimaraners and Norwegian Forest Cats.

Cat bed for large cats

Cat bed for large cats

Cats love a sense of security—but they want to decide for themselves how they lie down. Large cat breeds, in particular, quickly outgrow conventional cat baskets. A spacious XXL cat bed gives them freedom of movement while still offering a sheltered retreat.

What is a good cat basket?

Exclusive designer cat basket RONDO made of leather | pet.interiors

The most important criteria for choosing a cat basket.

Since cats sleep up to 16 hours a day, the cat basket should be an ideal place for your cat to sleep and retreat. It is therefore important to pay attention to good features and criteria when buying. To ensure that your cat likes the place to sleep, the cat basket must first and foremost ensure that your cat feels comfortable. Ideally, you should offer your cat several sleeping places to choose from.

 

These are the most important factors when choosing a cat basket:

  • Is the cat comfortable in the cat basket?
  • Does the cat feel comfortable in its cat basket?
  • What size should I look for when choosing a cat basket?
  • How easy is the cat basket to clean?
  • What materials are used to make the cat basket?
  • Does the manufacturer of the cat basket have good references?
  • Are there suitable accessories for the cat basket?
  • Does the cat basket look good?
  • What happens if the cat does not accept the basket?
Liegt die Katze bequem im Katzenkorb?

Whether the cat lies comfortably in its cat basket depends primarily on the lying surface. The cat basket should have a cushion with healthy lying properties. It is important that the cushion material does not sag over time. It should be a point-elastic, healthy filling so that the spine and joints are supported. Good cat cushions, e.g. those filled with latex, usually keep this promise for the cat’s entire life.

Exclusive designer cat basket BOWL made of felt | pet.interiors

Customer image: Cat basket BOWL in felt with latex cushion

Does the cat feel comfortable in its cat basket?

Whether the cat feels comfortable in your cat basket depends on the location and the materials used. Basically, the sleeping place should be warm and in a protected place. Your house cat wants to sleep in peace and also retreat to be alone from time to time. The optimal location depends on the cat’s preference. Some cats love to sleep a little higher up so they can keep an overview. Other animals that are not so mobile are happy if the basket is placed in a somewhat protected place next to the sofa or in a small alcove.
If you have several cats, there should be plenty of sleeping options available. The cats will certainly sleep together in a basket, but every now and then the animals want a place to retreat to all by themselves. If you only have one animal, you can also provide it with an alternative place to sleep.
Cat caves offer a well-protected, warm and undisturbed oasis of well-being. Cat houses made of felt are particularly recommended for anxious and noise-sensitive animals.
A drafty, busy place like the hallway is not suitable for a place to relax.

Cats love it soft, warm, cozy and, above all, clean. Therefore, the materials used should correspond to these preferences. Baskets with comfortable cushions (e.g. made of fleece, brushed cotton…) and with a cozy outer cover (e.g. felt) are ideal. Plastic cat baskets are not suitable as a place to sleep.

 

Felt cat caves - design for cats - pet.interiors.de

Designer cat house made of felt with latex cushions (from left to right: Berta, Mood, Pina).

What size should I pay attention to when choosing a cat basket?

A cat basket should be large enough for the cat to lie comfortably stretched out in it. Depending on its condition, the time of day and its inclination, the cat will sleep curled up tightly or stretched out in its basket. The cat bed should be large enough for both lying positions.

Design cat basket made of felt | pet.interiors

Customer photo: Little MAU is sleeping visibly relaxed!

How easy is the cat basket to clean?

Cats love cleanliness. When buying a basket, make sure it is easy to clean. Ideally, the cushion cover or the entire basket can be machine washed so that the sleeping area is always clean. Some manufacturers offer replacement covers. This way, the cat bed is easy to clean and has a fresh cover.

Exclusive designer cat basket MILA in imitation leather | pet.interiors

Customer image: MILA cat basket in imitation leather is easy to clean and beautiful.

What materials are used to make the cat basket?

When buying, pay attention to where it is produced and whether the materials used are of natural origin. You should also check whether all materials are Oeko-Tex certified. This way you can be sure that your cat is sleeping in a bed that is free of harmful substances.

Exclusive designer cat basket SIRO | pet.interiors

Customer photo: Eldorado is very satisfied with his cat basket SIRO „Handmade in Germany“.

Does the manufacturer of the cat basket have good references?

Take a look at the reviews and references of the manufacturer. There you can get an idea of ​​how cats have reacted to the baskets and cushions on offer. On these pages you can find out a lot about the manufacturer. Is the manufacturer well established in the market, competent in pet products and a good contact for questions about cat beds?

Are there suitable accessories for the cat basket?

If you can buy additional pillows, pillowcases, etc., this has the advantage that you don’t have to replace the entire cat basket if necessary. You can also keep the basket clean with an additional pillowcase.

Does the cat basket look good?

The look of the cat basket is only of interest to you. Your cat will not care about the shape and color. You choose the design that best suits you and your living conditions. Your furry friend will only care about comfort.

Exclusive designer cat basket RONDO in felt and leather | pet.interiors

Customer images: Design cat basket RONDO in felt & leather | Nominated for the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany.

What happens if the cat doesn't accept the basket?

Generally speaking, cats are very curious and like to try out new things. Once they have discovered the advantages of the cat basket, they will accept it. Sometimes, however, it takes a little patience until a new cat basket is taken over by the house cat. You can give it a helping hand by sprinkling some catnip or valerian in the cat basket. House cats are magically attracted to it. In an emergency, good retailers will take back unused cat baskets without hesitation.

Cat bed for large cats

Cat bed for large cats

Cats love a sense of security—but they want to decide for themselves how they lie down. Large cat breeds, in particular, quickly outgrow conventional cat baskets. A spacious XXL cat bed gives them freedom of movement while still offering a sheltered retreat.