Many moons ago, I purchased an electric throw blanket for $50.
As time has progressed, I feel as if I underpaid for this first-world delight. And it’s not just me who feels that way – Smidge and Cairo have both taken to the blanket over the years and now, it’s the most coveted thing in the house.
I first borrowed an electric blanket in college when my dorm room was too chilly, and bought my own the next winter. It’s just a little grey throw blanket with a white tile pattern. It’s now become quite ratty, the fabric near the plug port is a little distressed and there are claw marks from where Cairo has happily kneaded the blanket as he prepared to take a long nap.
This blanket is a magnet for cats, I tell you what. Cairo could sleep on this blanket all day. As you probably know, most adult cats sleep about 20 hours a day, so I’m not exaggerating that statement.
I’ve also found it has a gravity field that pulls in Chihuahuas as well. Smidge doesn’t often bury herself in blankets but last night crept under the electric blanket for maximum warmth while napping.
I think this blanket has a certain texture or fabric both pets like too. I catch one of them on it every time it’s out, even if it’s not on. It is sort of a fleece-y texture, I guess. Perhaps I should buy more fleece items for the animals, though Smidge’s kennel is already decked out in a fleece blanket and a bed, and Cairo typically prefers a more velvety texture (can you say “high maintenance”?)
Since neither pet has thumbs, I am the one who benefits the most from the electric blanket as I can control the digital remote. I could probably teach them to press the “on” button, but I also don’t want to accidentally set my house on fire because one of my furry compatriots cranked the electric blanket to Level 11.
I’m really more impressed the blanket is still heating as it should, as it’s over five years old, gets constant use, and is assaulted by things with claws regularly. The thrifter in me estimates I’ve paid less than $10 a year for each year I’ve used it, which I think is a pretty good deal. I’ll remember that when I debate buying a larger, newer one in the future.
Now if only I could get both pets to use the blanket with me at the same time. That would forever be worth the $50!
