Cat Donuts: Tips to Pick the Right One in 2025

 

What we mean by “cat donuts” 

When people say cat donuts, they usually mean donut-shaped gear for cats—think a ring-style plush bed, a round “cat donut cave,” a looped donut cat tunnel, or a circular cat scratching donut. These items tap into core feline needs: hiding, resting, playing, and scratching—all pillars of good cat welfare per veterinary guidelines on environmental needs and enrichment. 

Why cats love donut-shaped beds and tunnels

Cats are crepuscular rest champions, often sleeping 12–15+ hours daily. Cozy, semi-enclosed shapes help them feel safe while they doze and observe. A “donut” profile lets them curl, support joints, and peek out—especially helpful for shy or rescue cats that crave secure hideaways. 

Benefits at a glance 

• Security & stress relief: Enclosed spaces reduce social and noise stress, offering choice and control. 

• Play & exercise: Tunnels invite stalking, chasing, and ambushing—key parts of a cat’s hunting repertoire. 

• Appropriate scratching: Circular scratchers (a “cat scratching donut”) satisfy marking and nail care so the couch survives.
  

Types of “cat donuts” (and when to use each)

You’ll also see “donut tunnel cat” (often mistyped online as donut tunnel cap). The idea is the same: a ring-like tunnel that doubles as a rest spot.

How to choose the right cat donut 

1) Fit & size

• Measure your cat from nose to base of tail.

• Beds should let them curl and stretch; tunnels should allow easy turn-around.

• In multi-cat homes, consider one per cat plus one extra to prevent resource guarding. 

2) Materials & build

• Look for sturdy felt, foam that springs back, or corrugated board (for scratchers).

• Non-slip base helps timid cats feel stable when stepping inside.

• For kittens or chewers, avoid dangly strings and check for loose threads regularly. (General enrichment safety guidance.) 

3) Layout & placement

• Place beds/tunnels along your cat’s normal travel routes—near windows, favorite perches, or where you hang out.

• Put scratching donuts in visible, high-traffic spots and near sleeping areas (cats often scratch after naps). 

4) Match scratching style

• Some cats prefer horizontal scratchers (great for ring/donut shapes); others want tall, stable vertical posts. Offer both if you can.
  

Set-up tips for instant success

• Scent in: Rub a small cloth your cat has slept on along the bed or tunnel rim.

• Reward discovery: Toss treats through a donut cat tunnel or hide a toy inside to spark that “cat in donut” moment. Short, fun sessions beat marathons. 

• Respect consent: Never force a cat into a cat donut cave—choice reduces stress. 
  
  

Cleaning & care 

• Weekly quick clean: Lint-roll fur, shake out debris.

• Monthly deeper clean: Wash removable covers; vacuum felt seams.

• Cardboard scratching donuts: Rotate/flip sections and replace when shredded so cats keep using them. (Good resource maintenance is a core part of enrichment.) 
  
  

Why StayPurr Hideaway Tunnel Bed 

If you’re considering a combined bed-and-tunnel option, the StayPurr Hideaway Tunnel Bed is a donut-style, semi-enclosed tunnel with a rest spot on top. It’s offered in two sizes and several colors, comes with a free digital eBook, and has 30-day guarantee policy. 

What we like:

• Combines hiding, resting, scratching and play—covering multiple needs in one convenient, modern aesthetic toy.

• Horizontal surface likely suits cats that prefer lounging and low, stable entries.

What to check before buying:

• Confirm actual internal diameter fits your cat’s shoulder width and turn-around comfort.
  

• For multi-cat homes, consider one per cat or Large size to minimize queuing. 

Troubleshooting common issues

• “My cat ignores the new donut bed.” Start with treat trails and a toy toss through a donut cat tunnel; place it near a window or your TV sofa, then slowly move to your preferred spot. 

• “Scratching donut isn’t used.” Relocate to a busy path or next to a post-nap zone. Try a light catnip sprinkle if your cat responds to it. 

• “My kitten chews the seams.” Supervise play, remove loose threads, and provide appropriate chew toys to redirect. 

FAQs: cat donuts 

1) Are cat donuts safe for kittens?
Generally yes—choose sturdy, non-fraying materials, avoid strings, and supervise early play sessions. Replace worn items. 

2) Do cats actually need donut-shaped beds?
No single shape is required, but many cats prefer enclosed or rimmed spaces that feel secure, which is why cat donut caves and tunnels often perform well. 

3) Where should I put a cat scratching donut?
Right where your cat already travels or rests—near doorways, routes to food/water, and favorite nap zones. Visibility matters.

4) Horizontal vs vertical scratching—does it matter?
Yes. Individual cats show clear preferences; many enjoy horizontal donut scratchers, others require a tall, sturdy vertical post. Offer both if space allows. 

5) How often should I replace a donut scratcher?
When the surface is soft, peeling, or uneven, cats may avoid it. Flip or rotate sections, then replace to keep scratching attractive. (Maintenance is part of good enrichment.) 

6) My cat sleeps all day in the donut bed—is that normal?
Cats commonly sleep 12–15+ hours daily; seniors and kittens can log even more. If sleep changes suddenly or your cat seems unwell, call your vet. 

A simple shopping checklist 

• Size fits curl and stretch

• Stable base; no wobble

• Fabric feels durable; no loose strings

• Washable cover or easy vacuum points

• Place by a window/perch or where you relax

• Add a vertical post near a scratching donut 

Key takeaways

• Cat donuts (beds, caves, tunnels, and scratchers) can lower stress, boost play, and protect furniture—when sized, placed, and maintained well. 

• Offer choice (bed + tunnel + vertical & horizontal scratchers), keep items clean and sturdy, and follow your cat’s preferences.

• If you want a single piece that covers hide-sleep-play, the StayPurr Hideaway Tunnel Bed is a reasonable, compact option—measure carefully and place it on a route your cat already uses.

Further reading

• SAGE Journals AAFP/ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines — cat welfare advice for every home. 
• Indoor Pet Initiative (OSU) — practical how-tos on enrichment, play, and scratching.
• International Cat Care — up-to-date home setup and scratching guidance.