Well, technically there are two products of the year this year. I wrestled with this choice for a bit, because, is it still “product of the year” if there’s more than one? But then I thought, my website, my rules! I chose one of the two products because it was created with so much care and thought about what cats need, and it’s backed by science. I chose the other one because it has made the biggest difference in Allegra’s life this year.
Knead Therapeutic Cat Bed
This heated bed, developed with veterinarians, made a noticeable difference in 76% of the arthritic cats participating in a study. 82% of participants observed a decrease in their cats’ pain, 75 % were back to pouncing and playing, and more than 70% took pride in their appearance again. (A lack of grooming can be a sign of pain.)
The bed is made from human grade memory foam. The shape is designed to purrfectly cradle feline bodies and reduce joint pain. It is designed with cat safe heating technology. The removable cover can be machine washed and line dried. The heating film and memory foam can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. The bed warms to a safe cat-friendly 104°F (40°C) within 3 – 4 minutes, with smart controls to prevent overheating.
Click here to read our full review.
25% off Knead Cat Bed, discount valid through January 5
For more information about the Knead Therapeutic Bed and to purchase, visit Kneadcats.com.*
Amarkat Classic Faux Fleece Pet Stairs
At 16 years old, it’s safe to assume that Allegra has some degree of arthritis. She still jumped on and off my bed multiple times a day earlier this year, seemingly without any problems. Then came the day when I noticed her getting ready to jump up, and she didn’t quite make the jump. I don’t know whether she just miscalculated, or whether she did experience some pain that morning, but it just about broke my heart. That’s when I decided that it was time to get her some pet stairs to help making get on and off the bed easier for her.
These particular stairs are not new. They’ve been on the market for a number of years, and there’s probably a reason for that, because these are solid, quality stairs. Made from pressed wood, covered in faux fleece, they come with all the hardware you need along with an easy to read drawing of how to put them together. It took me less than 10 minutes to set them up, despite my history of not doing well with anything that requires assembly.
Click here to read our full review.
The Amarkat Classic Faux Fleece Pet Stairs are available from Chewy.com.*
I love that both of these products are designed to help senior and arthritic cats live their best life. Allegra is still adjusting to the Knead Therapeutic Bed, mostly because she is currently having a love affair with her Lola Blanket (more on that next week.) She uses the Amarkat Pet Stairs multiple times every day and every night.
*FTC Disclosure: Purrs of Wisdom is an affiliate partner of Chewy.com and Knead Cats. This means that if you decide to purchase through any of our links, we get a small commission. We only spread the word about products and services we’ve either used or would use ourselves. We received these stairs at no charge for the purpose of this review. All reviews on Purrs of Wisdom will always reflect my honest and unbiased opinion, or, as the case may be, Allegra’s opinion.
Have loved your site and emails way back when your husband was doing it. This aging thing isn’t easy for any of us. It is comforting to know I am not the only one, nor are my furry kids. Big hugs, not going down without a fight!!
I’m not married, Marie, you must be thinking of someone else 🙂 I’ve been writing this site for the past 16 years myself. I’m glad you love the site so much. We’ll all age well together!
I can imagine how heartbreaking it was to see Allegra not be able to ump up on the bed. I have been noticing Kiki having trouble jumping down from places. One of her favorite places is the cabinet in the kitchen, over the fridge. She can get up there but cries to be helped back down. It’s sad to watch our furry babies struggle when they get older.