Cage Bedding & Mats – Soft Comfort & Hygiene
Cage bedding & mats keep pets comfortable and dry while they wait between wash, dry, and finish steps. Purpose-built crate liners, kennel mats, and drainage platforms improve traction, wick moisture, and make grooming cages faster to clean and reset.
What cage bedding & mats do
- Maintain a drier surface by wicking spills and bath runoff away from the coat so pets rest clean between stages.
- Improve footing with non-slip textures that reduce sliding on smooth pans and help nervous animals settle.
- Add cushioning and noise damping to protect pressure points and lower stress in busy salon environments.
With the right layering—liner for absorbency, mat for grip, and optional drainage grid—turnover stays quick and cages stay fresher.
Common types & materials
- Veterinary fleece/“vetbed” – deep-pile, fast-wick fabric with a non-slip or mesh backing; trims to size and dries quickly.
- Rubber or EVA mats – cushioned, non-slip panels that add grip and insulation on metal pans.
- PVC/PE drainage grids – raised platforms that keep pets above runoff; hose-clean and quick to disinfect.
- Washable/absorbent pads – quilted or waterproof-backed liners that capture accidents and protect cage pans.
- Foam inserts with sealed covers – supportive kennel pads for longer holds; choose wipe-clean, chemical-resistant covers.
How to use in a grooming workflow
- Measure the cage floor; cut liners or mats to fit flush without bunching under doors or latches.
- Layer by need: drainage grid for wet dogs, fleece or pad on top for wicking, rubber mat where extra grip is required.
- Secure corners (clips/Velcro where appropriate) so bedding doesn’t shift when pets turn or stand.
- Swap soiled pieces immediately; launder hot per label or hose and squeegee hard mats, then allow full dry-down.
- Keep a rotation set ready—clean, dry spares speed resets between appointments.
Consistent laundering and proper dry-down prevent odor, mildew, and re-soiling cues.
How to choose the right bedding or mat
- Fit & stability – correct sizing, anti-curl edges, and paw-safe textures for cats, toy breeds, and large dogs.
- Cleaning method – washer-safe textiles vs. hose-down grids; confirm compatibility with your disinfectants (quats, AHP, HOCl).
- Dry time – quick-dry fleece and open-grid platforms reduce turnaround and moisture in the cage bay.
- Durability – tear-resistant fabrics, sealed seams, and chew-aware materials for heavy use.
- Thermal comfort – insulating layers for cold floors; breathable options for warm rooms and force-drying nearby.
Important notes
- Inspect daily for frays, chewing, or lifted edges; replace damaged pieces to avoid ingestion or trips.
- Do not use heat pads or dryers inside cages without continuous monitoring and adequate ventilation.
- Disinfect pans and hard mats at labeled contact times; rinse if required before relining.
- Store clean bedding dry and off the floor to prevent contamination between uses.
Choose cage bedding & mats that fit securely, wash easily, and balance absorbency with traction. With smart layering and disciplined sanitation, pets stay comfortable and dry, and your grooming cages reset quickly for the next appointment.