You make the bed, turn around, and there's a lump under the comforter. You fold the laundry and find a cat in the basket. You sit on the sofa and a small dog is buried behind the cushions. Burrowing is natural. It just helps to give them a better place to do it.
In this article
Why pets burrow · Five ways to help them settle · Why a hood changes everything · A bed made for burrowing
The problem
Why pets burrow
01
Warmth
Wrapping up holds body heat, especially for small, short-haired or older pets.
02
Security
Being covered feels safe and quiet, like a den.
03
Your scent
Your comforter and your laundry smell like you, which is calming.
04
Habit
Many small dogs and cats simply sleep better when something is touching their back.
What helps
Five ways to help them settle
Keep their spot warm. Off cold floors and away from drafts.
Add a blanket that smells like you. It makes a new spot feel familiar.
Pick the quiet corner. Somewhere they can see you, but away from foot traffic.
Keep a routine. Same place for naps and bedtime helps them settle faster.
Give them a bed with a hood. Something to crawl under, without stealing your comforter.
Why a hood changes everything
An open bed leaves their back exposed. A soft hood gives them the same tucked-in feeling as your comforter, so they can burrow without taking over your bed.
The setup
A bed made for burrowing
Put it where they already nap, pull the hood halfway down, and tuck a treat inside. Most pets find their way in within a day or two.
First days
Helping them find it
Day 1
Shake out the plush and let it fluff up for a day.
Day 2
Place it in their favorite nap spot with a familiar blanket.
Day 3 onwards
Leave the hood half down so they can peek out.
Measure your pet curled up and add a little room to stretch when you choose the size.