Slumber Pet Thermal Cat Mat

September 27, 2010 11:27 pm | By Zootoo Editor CynthiaLo

After finding my 14-year-old cat pitifully curled up on the floor in front of the heater, I asked myself, what would Barbarella do on a cold winter's day? Maybe she'd head off in her rocket ship to the pet store and treat her cat to a little thermal reflective space blanket, covered in sassy electric-blue, leopard skin. Luckily, Slumber Pet sells such an item to earthlings for well under $20. This machine washable, 22 x 18 ½" mat reflects your cat's own body heat to provide soothing comfort, yet needs no electricity or batteries.

I placed our mat on the seat of my vintage green swivel chair. The cats and I instantly agreed it was a step up from the towel I had covering the worn upholstery, but aside from its good looks and constant use, I had no real proof of its special powers. I needed an expert.

A few years back, my brother took a ride in my new Volkswagen Beetle. A mile down the road he said, “Man, why do I feel like I just wet my pants?” The car had heated seats, and his had been left on high. Perhaps his observant backside could provide the answer.

On a recent visit, the thermal pet mat came to rest in my green swivel chair. After a few minutes, he observed aloud, “What am I sitting on? My rear is heating up!” Finally, scientific confirmation that my new space age kitten accoutrement indeed has thermal reflective properties!

While it might not replace an electric pet bed, this machine washable mat, which also comes in grey, white or tan, can be placed anywhere in the house to keep your kitty toasty warm.

Pros: Machine washable; cats will find the warm coziness irresistible; discourages felines from seeking unsafe heat sources.

Cons: None.