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10 Best Outdoor Heating Pads for Cats – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

closeup of cat napping on paws on heating pad outdoors

Our little furry friends have been having a harder time of it over the past few years because of the colder winter temperatures. But let’s face it—snuggling up in a warm place is a favorite activity for all cats at the best of times. Whatever the weather, your cat will love an outdoor heating pad. There are many different types of heating pads available, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

We have put together this list of reviews to help you quickly find the right outdoor heating pad for your situation. Read on to find great suggestions on a heating pad to suit your needs.

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A Quick Glance at Our Favorites of  2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pad K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pad
  • Doesn’t need to be plugged in
  • Great dark colors
  • Whole unit can be machine washed
  • Best Value
    Second place
    K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Dog Crate Pad K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Dog Crate Pad
  • Non-slip bottom keeps it stable
  • Machine washable
  • Can also be used in your crate
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pad K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pad
  • Heats up electrically
  • High quality and durable
  • An electrical cord that is steel-wrapped
  • Best for Kittens
    Downtown Pet Supply Thermal Leopard Print Cat Mat Downtown Pet Supply Thermal Leopard Print Cat Mat
  • Cute range of fabrics
  • Lightweight and warm
  • Can be laundered
  • K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Kennel Heated Pad & Cover K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Kennel Heated Pad & Cover
  • Adjustable temperature
  • Suitable for the coldest climates
  • More expensive than most other models
  • The 10 Best Outdoor Heating Pads For Cats

    1. K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pad – Best Overall

    K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pad

    Check Price on Chewy
    Dimensions 21 L x 17 W x 1 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Microfiber

    Our pick for the best overall outdoor heating pad for cats is the K&H Pet Products’ Self-Warming Pet Pad. Self-warming materials in this bed absorb heat and radiate it back to your cat, amplifying its own temperature. With its soft microfleece, this bed creates an irresistibly cozy nap zone. It is double-sided and comes in two colors, so you can show the shade you prefer. Dark colors make it ideal for the outdoors, and since this isn’t an electrically heated unit, the whole piece can be washed at once.

    Even though this pad has impressive heat retention and keeps your pet snug and warm, it may not be the best choice during the worst winters.

    Pros
    • Doesn’t need to be plugged in
    • Great dark colors
    • Whole unit can be machine washed
    Cons
    • Not as warm as electric pads

    2. K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Dog Crate Pad – Best Value

    K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Dog Crate Pad

    Dimensions 22 L x 14 W x 0.5 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Fleece

    Yes, you can pamper your cat with a warm and cozy outdoor nap without spending a fortune. This great value K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Dog Crate Pad captures the heat from your cat and reflects it back. The top side of the heating pad is made from soft, cushiony microfleece. Inside, there is a metalized plastic material, similar to that found in space blankets. Underneath, you’ll find a stay-put fabric that provides a bit of grip, so the pad doesn’t move around. While the pale tan color of this pad may soil quickly, cleaning and care couldn’t be easier: the whole pad can be thrown in the wash.

    This pad is notched at its corners, so it can also fit inside your crate. The K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad is our pick for the best outdoor heating pad for cats for the money.

    Pros
    • The non-slip bottom keeps it stable
    • Machine washable
    • Can also be used in your crate
    Cons
    • Pale tan color may show dirt easily

    3. K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Pad – Premium Choice

    K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pad

    Dimensions 18 L x 14 W x 1.5 H inches
    Machine washable The removable cover can be washed
    Material Fleece, plastic

    Despite being our pick for premium choice, this K&H Pet Products Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Pad is still affordably priced. Even in sub-zero temperatures, the heated foam pad provides softness and comfortable heat. Protected from wear by a steel coil, the pad’s electrical cord extends 5.5 feet. If you are worried about the impact of rough terrain or chewing, this steel wrapping is a great feature. With a soft PVC shell, the bed does not absorb water as fabric does.

    It should be noted that there are electrical parts in this pad, so you cannot wash it in its entirety. You can launder the faux fleece cover on a gentle cold cycle and the bed can be cleaned using a damp cloth and mild dishwashing detergent.

    Pros
    • Heats up electrically
    • High-quality and durable
    • An electrical cord that is steel-wrapped
    Cons
    • Not the softest cover

    4. Downtown Pet Supply Thermal Cat Mat – Best for Kittens

    Downtown Pet Supply Thermal Leopard Print Cat Mat

    Dimensions 22 L x 19 W x 0.5 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Faux fur

    This Downtown Pet Supply Thermal Cat Mat will make your cat feel like pampered royalty. Your kitty can stay toasty and warm for long periods of time without the use of an electric heater thanks to its lightweight insulating core. Irrespective of whether your cat is young, elderly, nursing, or recovering from an illness or injury, the soothing warmth will make all the difference to their well-being.

    Three fun, leopard-inspired prints are available, so your cat can embrace its wild side—even if that generally means curling up and getting some shut-eye. Keep the mat looking fresh and clean by putting it in the washing machine when necessary.

    Pros
    • Cute range of fabrics
    • Lightweight and warm
    • Can be laundered
    Cons
    • Crinkly noise may deter some cats

    5. K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Kennel Heated Pad & Cover

    K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Kennel Heated Pad & Cover

    Dimensions 28.5 L x 22.5 W x 0.5 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Fleece

    There may be some who find the size and features of the Deluxe Lectro-Kennel excessive, but if your cat (or cats) needs a large, well-heated space to sprawl out in, then this is the K&H Pet Products Deluxe Lectro-Kennel Heated Pad for you. With its built-in sensor and adjustable thermostat, its heating element can be set anywhere between 80°F and 100°F. You can easily control your cat’s comfort using the digital display and push-button design.

    It’s a more expensive model, but your furry friend will be kept warm and comfortable even when the temperatures drop below zero. There is a 5.5-foot steel-wrapped electrical cord to ensure your kitty’s safety. In addition to the washable fleece cover, the pad can also be cleaned by wiping it with a damp cloth.

    Pros
    • Adjustable temperature
    • Suitable for the coldest climates
    • More expensive than most other models
    Cons
    • Only the cover can be machine washed
    • Quite large

    6. FurHaven ThermaNAP Faux Fur Self-Warming Dog & Cat Mat

    FurHaven ThermaNAP Faux Fur Self-Warming Dog & Cat Mat

    Dimensions 22 L x 17 W x 0.25 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Polyester

    This FurHaven ThermaNAP Faux Fur Self-Warming Dog & Cat Mat does not require a plug to work; instead of using electricity, it absorbs and reflects your cat’s natural body heat back to it. As a result, you will have the flexibility of moving the heating pad around freely, but it will not be as warm as most electric heating pads. There are six fun colors to choose from in this thermal pad. The outer layer of this pad is thick and soft. The insulating polyester fiber batting core creates the self-warming property of this bed.

    Because this pad can be machine washed, it can be quickly and easily cleaned, but the crinkly noise this pad makes might be irritating to cats who are sensitive to unusual sounds.

    Pros
    • Very soft
    • No electricity necessary
    • The whole pad can be laundered
    Cons
    • Crinkly noise may annoy some cats

    7. Pet Magasin Thermal Self-Heated Cat Bed, 2-pack

    Pet Magasin Thermal Self-Heated Cat Bed

    Dimensions 12 L x 10 W x .5 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Polyester, mylar

    What cat wouldn’t enjoy a warm nap on Pet Magasin’s thermal cat bed? Three layers of Mylar film and hypoallergenic foam are encased in a velvety fabric: the result is a cozy, comfortable place for your cat to nap. This is luxury with safety as the rubberized underside stops this pad from slipping around. There are two thermal pads included in the set. This is ideal if you have more than one pet or if your cat has more than one favorite spot.

    However, not all cats enjoy this pad, some may reject it because the heat-reflecting fabric produces a crinkly noise. Avoid this pad if you think your cat is sensitive to this type of sound.

    Pros
    • Self-heating, so no electricity costs
    • Soft, plush exterior
    • Non-slip base
    Cons
    • Some cats find the crinkly noise to be off-putting

    8. K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Pad & Fleece Cover

    K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Pad & Fleece Cover

    Dimensions 18.5 L x 12.5 W x 0.5 H inches
    Machine washable Removable cover only
    Material Fleece

    If you live in a seriously cold climate, this is the K&H Pet Products Extreme Weather Kitty Pad for you. Thermostatically controlled to 102° F, this unit is rugged. Its hard shell of ABS plastic makes it both strong and durable. This means that the pad cannot be ripped or chewed up. Despite its faux-fleece cover, not all cats seem to enjoy using this pad: some seem to shy away from the harder shell, perhaps because they find it uncomfortable.

    Because this is a 40w unit, it will cost a little more to run than some other models. It has a 5.5-foot steel-wrapped cord which is standard in most other electrical models. This makes it suitable for a sheltered area outdoors.

    Pros
    • Great for the coldest of winters
    • Hardy and durable
    • Steel-wrapped cord
    Cons
    • Harder plastic isn’t appealing to some cats
    • Not every cat needs this level of heat

    9. Paws & Pals Leopard Thermal Self Warming Dog & Cat Mat

    Paws & Pals Leopard Thermal Self Warming Dog & Cat Mat

    Dimensions 20 L x 17.5 W x 1 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Polyester

    Keeping your pet comfortable and cozy is easy with this leopard-print Paws & Pals Leopard Thermal Self-Warming Dog & Cat Mat. Your cat will love kicking back on this ultra-plush pad, snoozing in a cozy nest created by its own stored body heat. Featuring a leopard print, this ultra-soft microfleece bed will look great wherever your kitty likes to sleep. Additionally, it’s 100 percent machine washable, so cleanup is a cinch.

    This bed does not contain heat-reflecting materials, but it is made from soft microfleece, which channels your pet’s natural body heat. Because of this, it may be better suited to mild climates rather than extreme weather conditions. That being said, its fabrication is mildew and mold-resistant, and users say it works well.

    Pros
    • Low effort cleaning
    • Doesn’t need to be plugged in
    Cons
    • Not suitable for very cold weather

    10. FurHaven Faux Sheepskin Bolster Pet Crate Mat

    FurHaven Faux Sheepskin Bolster Pet Crate Mat

    Dimensions 35 L x 22 W x 3.5 H inches
    Machine washable Yes
    Material Fleece

    Your pet will get the beauty sleep it deserves with Fur Haven’s faux sheepskin bolster mat. Made with ultra-plush, faux sheepskin, this pillow is fiber-stuffed to support joints such as elbows, hips, and backs. Quilted padding and insulating foam keep your cat warm wherever it is. This pad comes with a machine-washable and water-resistant poly-canvas base, so it can easily be cleaned.

    Although we love this product, in comparison to some of the other pieces reviewed, this one has a little less padding on the bottom. Some people have also noticed that the product may shed a little bit.

    Pros
    • Quilted padding for warmth
    • Great for less cold weather
    • Machine washable for easy cleaning
    Cons
    • Not always in stock
    • Less padding on the underside
    • May shed a little

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    Buyer’s Guide: Picking the Best Outdoor Heating Pad for Cats

    Understanding how heating pads work will help you avoid frustration and wasted time. Selecting the right pad will ensure both you and your cat are purrfectly satisfied. To help you make an informed decision, we hope to provide all the information you need below.

    Thermal Pads vs Plug-in Pads

    Thermal warming pads do not require electricity, instead, they absorb and reflect your cat’s body heat. This means you can move the pad anywhere, but it also means it won’t get as warm as most electric heating pads. In many self-warming cat beds, a thin layer of a reflective material such as Mylar is inserted. This is similar to the material used in camping or emergency blankets. In some, other insulating fabrics are used. Those materials reflect heat back to their source (in this case, your cat) to provide an insulated and cozy environment for your pet. They can also cause some crinkly noise when stepped on. Some cats do not enjoy this sound.

    Plug-in pads can typically be divided into two types: those that have outdoor-rated electrical cords and those that are designed to only be used indoors. Make sure to check before you buy and only buy an outdoor heating pad. An electrically heated pad is a better choice if your cat spends a good deal of its time outside or if you experience harsh winters. Electrical heating pads should not be left plugged in when not in use and should not be covered up with blankets. It’s also important to make sure your cat can get up and move away from the heated pad if it becomes too hot.

    Cute cat sitting in donut cat bed
    Image Credit: Nailia Schwarz, Shutterstock

    Helping Feral Cats Keep Warm in Winter

    Many people buy outdoor heating pads for feral cats or “neighborhood cats”. If this is your situation, investigate some of the larger, higher-voltage pieces on the market. These will give you room for multiple cats and allow you to offer a warmer temperature range.

    Therapeutic Benefits of Heated Pads For Older Cats, Sick Cats, and Kittens

    A heated pad can be extremely beneficial for older cats suffering from arthritis, providing much-needed relief. Kittens too will enjoy the comfort of a warm pad to sit or sleep on; the coziness of the pad mimics the feeling of being with their litter. For sick cats, the last thing you want to worry about is that they may get cold on top of being ill. Whatever ails them, an outdoor heating pad is a wonderful way to ensure your paw-tner is warm and well.

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    Conclusion

    Heating pads come in a variety of options, making it tricky to find the right one for your cat right off the bat. We recommend the K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Pad for its ease of use and durability. A great heating pad that doesn’t strain your budget, the self-warming crate pad from K&H Pet Products is also a great choice.

    Happy shopping! We hope our reviews have helped you narrow down your selection so you can keep your best buddy warm, comfy, and safe.


    Featured Image Credit: Mehaniq, Shutterstock

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