There have been many displaced animals due to the fires and COVID-19 and Australia’s pounds and rescue organisations are full. Rescuers are taking on as many as possible, but supplies are dwindling. Making these beds will keep a variety of animals comfortable. These beds will be used for domestic animals as well as wildlife being transported between vets and carers.

These beds are comfortable but not too thick, making them easy to wash and replace frequently. Scared, injured, anxious animals can wee, bleed, vomit, poop, or get their dinner all over these, so their carers need a few per animal.

Fabrics to Use

The recommended outer fabric for these beds is polar fleece. Other warm, sturdy fabrics like chenille or sweater fleece can be used too. Remember, it needs to be highly washable and soft.

Between the two layers of fabric is a layer of padding. An old, clean mattress cover or thin doona (duvet) or blanket would be perfect. (We highly advocate upcycling what you have already!) In a pinch, two more layers of fleece would work too.

It’s important to note that the fabrics you use must be synthetic. This allows liquids to drain away from the animal so it remains comfortable and speeds up drying after washing. (Mattress covers and doonas often have a thin cotton outer – that’s fine.)

These beds are a great project for beginner sewists because nothing needs to be too exact.

Size chart for animal beds
Rescued kitty Annie enjoying a bed while birdwatching. This is the XS sized bed.

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