Patent Description:
The Balku World branded Multipurpose <NUM>+<NUM> Baby Mat consists of three padded cotton mats and one waterproof soft plastic sheet. One layer getting wet can be replaced with the second. The waterproof sheet can be attached on the top surface or at the bottom. Snap Button are provided on all the sheet for easy attachment. A soft foam filling in Cotton Mat protects from any rough surface. According to the invention there is provided an animal bedding according to the claims. In the following, each of the described methods, apparatus, examples, and aspects, which do not fully correspond to the invention as defined in the claims is thus not according to the invention and is, as well as the whole following description, present for illustration purposes only or to highlight specific aspects or features of the claims.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various aspects of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain its principles. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like elements.

Domesticated animals typically have some type of animal bedding. For example, guinea pigs typically thrive in an environment that has suitable bedding. However, typical guinea pig bedding suffers from several drawbacks. First, typical bedding, such as wood or shredded paper, results in the guinea pig living in its waste (e.g., urine and feces), leading to a potentially unhealthy situation. For example, the guinea pig may develop bumblefoot (i.e., pododermatitis) if the guinea pig's feet are exposed to its own waste in the wood or shredded paper. Second, wood or shredded paper results in a considerable amount of waste. Third, wood or shredded paper, needing to be replaced periodically, resulting in a big expense. Fourth, guinea pigs tend to jerk and leap into the air (typically term "popcoming"), resulting in waste/bedding being kicked out of the cage and into the household. Fifth, paper or wooded bedding may cause dust to be present in the environment. Since small animals, such as guinea pigs, are very close to the ground, the animals' noses may inhale the dust, causing respiratory-related diseases, such as URI (upper respiratory infection). As discussed further below, using fleece, which naturally does not have dust and has static properties to attract dust (which may be generated from hay, the guinea pigs' main source of food) from the environment, may reduce the dust exposure to the animals and, in turn, reduce incidence of respiratory-related diseases.

Various forms of animal bedding are envisioned. The below discussion focuses on guinea pig bedding. Nevertheless, any discussion regarding guinea pig bedding may be equally applied to other forms of animal bedding. Further, any discussion regarding animal bedding may include a pocket on the upper surface or may not include a pocket on the upper surface. In this regard, any discussion below regarding animal bedding with a pocket may equally be applied to the described animal bedding without a pocket. Conversely, any discussion below regarding animal bedding without a pocket may equally be applied to the described animal bedding with a pocket. Thus, in one implementation, the animal bedding includes a main section. In another implementation, the animal bedding includes a main section and a pocket. In a first specific implementation, the main section comprises three layers, including a top layer, a middle layer, and a bottom layer. In a second specific implementation, the main section consists of the three layers.

The top layer may be made from a variety of materials. In one implementation, the top layer is composed of a material that is hydrophobic (e.g., tending to repel or fail to mix with water). In an alternate implementation, the top layer is composed of a material that is hydrophilic (e.g., tending to attract water). In still an alternate implementation, the top layer is composed of a blend of materials, with one material in the blend being hydrophilic and another material in the blend being hydrophobic (e.g., polyester/cotton blend). For example, one type of material for the top layer may comprise a synthetic fiber, such as a fabric woven or knitted from polyester (or other type of polymer) thread or yarn, a blend of polyester (or other type of polymer) with another material (e.g., cotton), or the like. One example material for the top layer is fleece, which may comprise a hydrophobic material. Fleece may come in different thicknesses, such as micro, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> grams per square meter (gsm), with <NUM> gsm being the thickest and least flexible and <NUM> gsm being less flexible. Further, fleece, may be made from polyester or other type of polymer. Alternatively, the top layer may comprise a plant-derived fiber, such as cotton or bamboo, which exhibit hydrophilic properties.

In one implementation, the middle layer may comprise a material that at least partly absorbs liquid (e.g., a hydrophilic material that attracts water). Specifically, the middle layer may comprise a material that is configured to break the liquid's surface tension so that the liquid moves into the spaces between fibers of the material, and into the fibers themselves. For example, the middle layer may comprise a cellulose-based material. Examples of cellulose-based materials include, but are not limited to: cotton; hemp; or bamboo. Other types of cellulose-based materials are contemplated. In the example of the middle layer being composed of bamboo, in one implementation, the middle layer may be entirely composed of bamboo. Alternatively, the middle layer may be composed of a bamboo blend (e.g., bamboo blended with polyester or other synthetic material). Various blends of bamboo may be used. In one implementation, the various blends of bamboo include: at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber);at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber). In another implementation, the various blends of bamboo include: at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber);at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate material (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least <NUM>% bamboo and at most <NUM>% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber). Bamboo (or bamboo blends) exhibit good hydrophilic properties, thereby attracting water (or urine) from the animal. In still an alternate implementation, the middle layer may be composed entirely of cotton.

Thus, in one implementation, the middle layer may consist of a single material. As one example, the material may entirely consist of bamboo, as discussed above. As another example, the material may entirely consist of a synthetic material. One specific example of a synthetic material is a microfiber. Specifically, a microfiber is a synthetic fiber that is finer than one denier or decitex/thread, and may have a diameter of less than ten µm. Microfibers may be made from polyesters, polyamides (e.g., nylon, a para-aramid synthetic fiber (e.g., Kevlar®), a meta-aramid material (e.g., Nomex®), trogamide), or a conjugation of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene.

In an alternate implementation, the middle layer may comprise a composite material (e.g., a blend of materials). As one example, the composite blend may comprise a cellulose fiber and a non-cellulose fiber (e.g., cellulose fibers and poly microfibers, such as bamboo (or other natural fiber) blended with a synthetic fiber). As another example, the composite blend may comprise two or more types of cellulose fibers (e.g., bamboo/cotton blend). In one implementation, the bamboo may comprise bamboo pulp fiber.

In one implementation, at least a part of the bottom layer may be waterproof and/or at least partially water repelling (such as completely water repelling). For example, at least a part, such as one or more surfaces of the bottom layer, may be hydrophobic. The bottom layer may comprise a material with a plastic coating or laminate. The material may be composed of cotton, synthetic (e.g., polyester), or a cotton/synthetic blend (e.g., polyblend). The material may be coated or laminated with polyurethane laminate (PUL), commonly known as PUL Fabric. In one implementation, at least one side of the bottom layer has a laminate (such as PUL). In a first specific implementation, the side of the bottom layer closer to the middle layer is the side with the laminate. Specifically, when assembled, the laminate side of the bottom layer touches or contacts the middle layer, as discussed below. In a second specific implementation, the side of the bottom layer further from the middle layer is the side with the laminate. Specifically, when assembled, the laminate side of the bottom layer does not touch or contact the middle layer (and instead contacts the ground). In a third specific implementation, both sides of the bottom layer include the laminate. Thus, in one implementation, the bottom layer is composed of a material that is hydrophobic. In an alternate implementation, the bottom layer is composed of a material that is hydrophilic. In still an alternate implementation, the bottom layer is composed of a blend of materials, with one material in the blend being hydrophilic and another material in the blend being hydrophobic (e.g., polyester/cotton blend).

In this way, fluid, such as urine, may pass through the top layer and be absorbed in the middle layer. Further, the fluid that is in the middle layer may remain in the middle layer without passing through to the bottom layer (such as due to the laminate in the bottom layer).

In one implementation, the top layer, the middle layer, and the bottom layer are attached to one another. In a specific implementation, the top layer, the middle layer, and the bottom layer are stitched together along a perimeter, as described in more detail below.

In an alternate implementation, in addition to attaching the top layer, the middle layer and the bottom layer together, the top layer and middle layer (but not the bottom layer) are attached together separately. In a first specific implementation, the means of attachment of the top layer, the middle layer and the bottom layer is the same as the separate means of attachment of the top layer and the middle layer. For example, stitching may be used to attach the top layer, the middle layer, and the bottom layer together, and stitching may also be used to separately attach the top layer and the middle layer. In a second specific implementation, the means of attachment of the top layer, the middle layer and the bottom layer is different than the separate means of attachment of the top layer and the middle layer.

As discussed above, the location for attachment of the top layer, middle layer, and bottom layer are different from the location for separate attachment for the top layer and middle layer. For example, the top layer, middle layer, and bottom layer may be attached along a periphery or perimeter of the main section, as discussed above, and the top layer and middle layer may be separately attached in an interior of the main section. Further, the separate attachment of the top layer and middle layer may be in a pattern. For example, the stitching that attaches the top layer and middle layer may create a diamond pattern, square pattern, or the like as viewed on the top layer.

The separate attachment of the top layer to the middle layer may result in quilting. Quilting may result in one or more benefits. First, the middle layer, such as the bamboo or bamboo blend, even if the material (e.g., the bamboo) in the middle layer loosens, the middle layer will not shift significantly due to the quilting. Second, the quilting may hold the top layer and middle layer together better. Third, hay (or other debris) stuck in the top layer material (e.g., in the fleece material of the top layer) may be more easily removed because of the quilting.

In one implementation, a pocket may be attached to the main section (e.g., attached to at least one side or one edge of the main section). For example, the pocket may be attached on three sides or three edges to the main section, with the fourth side or fourth edge of the pocket being used as an opening for the animal to enter/exit the pocket. As another example, the pocket may be attached on two sides or two edges to the main section (such as to only two sides or two edges that meet in a corner of the main section). As still another example, the pocket may be attached to only one side or one edge of the main section. Certain animals, such as guinea pigs, are prey animals. In the wild, guinea pigs spend time underground. The pocket allows the guinea pig to burrow therein, where it is considered safe and dark. In one manner of manufacture, the three layers are attached to one another to form the main section, and thereafter, the pocket is attached to the main section. The method of attachment (e.g., stitching) for the three layers to form the main section may be the same method of attachment (e.g., stitching) for attaching the pocket to the main section. For example, the three layers may be stitched along a periphery to form the main section. Likewise, the pocket may be stitched along at least a part of the same periphery (such on three sides of the pocket) in order to attach the pocket to the main section. Alternatively, the method of attachment for the three layers to form the main section may be different from the method of attachment for attaching the pocket to the main section. Further, when the pocket is attached to the main section, the pocket may abut the top layer of the main section. Further, flipping back the pocket behind the main section results in the pocket abutting the bottom layer of the main section. In addition, in one implementation, the pocket may be constructed of the same material as the top layer. For example, the pocket may be constructed of a fleece material similar to the top layer. As discussed below, any embodiments disclosed herein without a pocket may alternatively include a pocket. Conversely, any embodiments disclosed herein with a pocket may alternatively not include a pocket.

Each fleece layer may include a softer side and a rougher side. Given this, the pocket may be formed such that only the softer side of the fleece material is exposed to the guinea pig. In one example, two fleece layers may be sewn together such that both sides of the pocket (e.g., the top side of the pocket (which the guinea pig touches when sitting on the pocket) and the underside of the pocket (which the guinea pig touches when burrowing in the pocket)) have the softer side of the fleece material exposed. Alternatively, a single fleece layer may be folded over such that both sides of the pocket have the softer side of the fleece material exposed. In contrast, the top layer may be constructed of one layer of fleece material, with the softer side of the fleece material abutting the pocket (and exposed to the guinea pig when the guinea pig is burrowing in the pocket or sitting on the main section) and the other side of the fleece material (e.g., the rougher side) abutting the middle layer (and therefore not exposed to the guinea pig). In still an alternate implementation, the pocket may be composed of <NUM>-<NUM> gsm fleece, whereas the top layer may be composed of <NUM>-<NUM> gsm fleece. Alternatively, the pocket may be composed of <NUM>-<NUM> gsm fleece, whereas the top layer may be composed of <NUM>-<NUM> gsm fleece. In this way, the top layer and the pocket may be formed of the same material; however, the configuration of the material for the pocket (e.g., such that two layers of fleece are used) may be different than the configuration of the top layer (e.g., such that a single layer of fleece is used).

As discussed below, various types of connections, bindings, or attachments for the materials are contemplated. In one embodiment, a permanent or non-reversible connection, binding or attachment may comprise stitching, such as needle-and-thread stitching and/or ultrasonic stitching (interchangeably termed ultrasonic sewing). Other types of permanent or non-reversible connections, bindings or attachments are contemplated. In this regard, any discussion below regarding stitching may be equally applied to any permanent or non-reversible connection, binding or attachment.

Alternatively, reversible or non-permanent connections, binding or attachment is contemplated. Merely by way of example, any one, any combination, or all of the following reversible connections may be used including: zippers; buttons; snaps; magnets; or Velcro. In this way, in animal bedding that includes a reversible connection (e.g., zippers; buttons; snaps; magnets; or Velcro) to attach a first part of the animal bedding with a second part, the animal bedding may include a more permanent type of attachment, connection, binding or the like (e.g., such as stitching).

In an alternate embodiment, the animal bedding may include at least one supporting layer configured to perform any one, any combination, or all of: (i) providing cushioning for the animal when resting on the animal bedding; (ii) helping circulate air so that an absorbent layer (such as an interior absorbent layer) dries quicker (e.g., after the animal urinates and/or after the animal bedding is washed); or (iii) reducing shrinkage of the absorbent layer (e.g., the absorbent layer may be attached or connected (such as via stitching) to a more rigid layer so that absorbent layer may retain its shape more after washing of the animal bedding). In this regard, the supporting layer may include any one, any combination, or all of the following: (A) more rigidity than the absorbent layer; (B) thicker than the absorbent layer; or (C) larger air pockets than in the absorbent layer.

Various supporting layers are contemplated including any one, any combination, or all of: a <NUM>-D mesh layer (which may be any one, any combination, or all of: more rigid than the absorbent layer in order to reduce shrinkage of the absorbent layer, thicker than the absorbent layer for cushioning, and include larger air pockets to assist in drying the absorbent layer); one or more sponges (which may be any one, any combination, or all of: more rigid than the absorbent layer in order to reduce shrinkage of the absorbent layer, thicker than the absorbent layer for cushioning, and include larger air pockets for drying); corrugated-type plastic and/or rubber material (for rigidity and/or cushioning and/or drying); honeycomb pattern sheet comprising (or alternatively consisting) of rubber material (for rigidity and/or cushioning and/or drying); open cell material (e.g., open-cell rubberized or polyurethane material); closed cell material (e.g., closed cell rubberized or polyurethane material); or gel-type material (for rigidity and/or cushioning).

In a first embodiment, the animal bedding includes an upper layer upon which the animal may rest, one or more absorbent layers (e.g., bamboo and/or cotton and/or synthetic material) configured to absorb at least a part of the urine from the animal, and one or more supporting layers. In a first sub-embodiment, the upper layer, the absorbent layer, and the supporting layer are each connected or attached to one another. In one particular example, stitching may be used to stitch the upper layer, the absorbent layer, and the supporting layer together. As one example, the stitching may go through each of the upper layer, the absorbent layer, and the supporting layer (e.g., stitching on at least a part of the periphery (such as connecting upper layer, absorbent layer, and supporting layer along at least two sides, at least three sides, or on all sides) and/or on an interior (such as connecting upper layer and absorbent layer only or connecting each of upper layer, absorbent layer, and supporting layer) to form a pattern on the upper layer. As a second example, first stitching may go through the upper layer and the absorbent layer to form a pattern on the upper layer and second stitching (such as around a periphery) through the absorbent layer and the supporting layer. As another example, other types of connection means may be used to connect each of the upper layer, the absorbent layer, and the supporting layer together. In a second sub-embodiment, the absorbent layer and the supporting layer are each connected or attached to one another, but one or both of the absorbent layer or the supporting layer are not attached to the upper layer. The animal bedding in the first embodiment may include at least a part any one, any combination, or all of the upper layer, the absorbent layer, or the supporting layer being at least partly hydrophobic. For example, at least a part of the supporting layer (such as an underside of the supporting layer having a PUL coating thereon, with the underside being opposite to the side of the supporting layer that directly contacts the absorbent layer or to the side of the supporting layer that is closer to the absorbent layer) may be hydrophobic.

In a second embodiment, the animal bedding includes an upper layer upon which the animal may rest, an absorbent layer (e.g., bamboo and/or cotton and/or synthetic material) configured to absorb at least a part of the urine from the animal, the supporting layer, and a lower layer that is at least partly hydrophobic.

According to the invention, the animal bedding comprises a first part that is reversibly attached to a second part. The reversible attachment may comprise any one, any combination, or all of: zipper(s); magnet(s); Velcro; buttons; or snaps. The first part may include one or more layers, such as any one, any combination, or all of: an upper layer (upon which the animal rests); an absorbent layer (which may be composed of bamboo, cotton, and/or synthetic material); or a protective layer (which may protect the absorbent layer). The second part includes waterproof layers, and may include any one, any combination, or all of: cushion layer(s); or rigid layer(s). According to the invention, the waterproof layers of the second part are attached to one another, and form a cavity therein to house one or both of the cushion layer(s) or the rigid layer(s).

Moreover, various shapes of the animal bedding are contemplated. For example, the animal bedding may be rectangular in shape, such as illustrated in the figures of the present application. Alternatively, the animal bedding may be any other shape, including square, triangular, circular, or the like.

Referring to the figures, <FIG> is a front perspective view of the animal bedding <NUM>. As discussed above, the top layer <NUM> may be made from a variety of materials, such as hydrophobic materials. Example materials include synthetic fibers (e.g., fleece) or synthetic blends. Likewise, the middle layer <NUM> may be made from a variety of materials, such as hydrophilic materials. Example materials include cellulose-based materials, such as bamboo or bamboo blends. The bottom layer <NUM> likewise may be made from a variety of materials, such as materials, with at least part of which are waterproof and/or water repelling. For example, the bottom layer may be composed of a fabric. In one implementation, the fabric for the bottom layer may be composed of cotton, synthetic (e.g., polyester), or a cotton/synthetic blend (e.g., polyblend), with a plastic coating or laminate applied to a side facing the middle layer, as discussed further below.

The top layer <NUM>, middle layer <NUM>, and bottom layer <NUM> may be connected or attached together in one of several ways. In one way, stitching may connect the top layer <NUM>, middle layer <NUM>, and bottom layer <NUM> together. For example, <FIG> illustrates stitching <NUM> around an entire perimeter of main section <NUM>. Alternatively, stitching may be less than the entire perimeter. Further, separate from attaching the top layer <NUM>, middle layer <NUM>, and bottom layer <NUM> together, at least two of the components of the main section (but not the third component of the main section) may be connected together as well. For example, top layer <NUM> and middle layer <NUM> (but not bottom layer <NUM>) may be connected separately. For example, stitching <NUM> may connect top layer <NUM> and middle layer <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. Stitching <NUM> may be in an interior of main section <NUM>, such as interior to the perimeter of main section. In this regard, stitching <NUM> (connecting top layer <NUM> and middle layer <NUM>) is in a different part of main section <NUM> than stitching <NUM> (connecting top layer <NUM>, middle layer <NUM>, and bottom layer <NUM>). Further, stitching <NUM> results in quilting <NUM> or bunching of the middle layer <NUM>. Various patterns of stitching of the top layer <NUM> and middle layer <NUM> are contemplated, such as a diamond shaped pattern, a wave shaped pattern, and/or a zigzagged shaped pattern.

In particular, stitching may connect any one, any combination, or all of: the top layer, the middle layer(s); and the bottom layer. Further, stitching may be along part or all of a periphery of main section (e.g., along only one side of the periphery of the main section, only two sides of the periphery of the main section, only three sides of the periphery of the main section, or on all four sides periphery of the main section. Separate from stitching, other stitching may connect the top layer and the one or more middle layers. Specifically, vertical stitching and horizontal stitching may form a grid of squares (or other type of quadrilateral) that connects top layer and middle layer, but not bottom layer.

Pocket <NUM> may also be attached to main section <NUM>, such as by stitching along three sides <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of pocket <NUM>. Fourth side <NUM> of pocket <NUM> is not attached to main section <NUM>. In one implementation, pocket <NUM> is less than half the surface area of main section <NUM> (e.g., pocket <NUM> may be ¼ or less than ¼ of the surface area of main section <NUM>). As discussed below, in one implementation, pocket <NUM> may be attached to all of top layer <NUM>, middle layer <NUM> and bottom layer <NUM>. Alternatively, pocket <NUM> may be attached only to top layer <NUM> but not to middle layer <NUM> or bottom layer <NUM>. Still alternatively, pocket <NUM> may be attached to top layer <NUM> and middle layer <NUM>, but not to bottom layer <NUM>.

For example, pocket <NUM> may be connected to top layer <NUM> (and optionally middle layer <NUM> and/or bottom layer <NUM>) via stitching. For implementations without pocket <NUM>, stitching may attach top layer <NUM>, middle layer <NUM>, and bottom layer <NUM> together. Stitching may be along the edge of any one, any combination, or all of the four sides. Separate from stitching, stitching may connect top layer <NUM> and middle layer <NUM>. Further, the stitching along the periphery may be different from the stitching in the interior. By way of example, the stitching along the peripheral may comprise needle-and-thread stitching whereas the stitching in the interior may comprise ultrasonic stitching (interchangeably termed ultrasonic sewing). As another example, the stitching along the peripheral may comprise ultrasonic stitching (interchangeably termed ultrasonic sewing) whereas the stitching in the interior may comprise needle-and-thread stitching. Still alternatively, the stitching on the periphery and in the interior may be the same type of stitching (e.g., both being ultrasonic stitching (interchangeably termed ultrasonic sewing) or both being needle-and-thread stitching). As such, the stitching in the interior may comprise a regular pattern in the interior. As discussed above, the pattern may comprise a diamond pattern, a wave pattern, a zig-zag pattern, or the like.

The following are examples of the materials, weights, thickness details of various parts of the animal bedding. The examples are merely for illustration purposes. For example, the pocket (or pocket layer) may comprise the following: term of the material: <NUM>% Polyester; weight: <NUM> gsm; thickness: <NUM>. The top layer may comprise the following: term of the material: <NUM>% Polyester; weight: <NUM> gsm; thickness: <NUM>. In the example of the middle layer being composed of a bamboo absorbent layer: term of the material: Bamboo fiber batting; weight: <NUM> gsm; thickness: <NUM>; blend: Bamboo fiber <NUM>%, polyester <NUM>%. As discussed above, various percent bamboo blends are contemplated. As another example, the waterproof bottom layer may comprise the following: term of the material: <NUM>% Polyester; total weight: <NUM> gsm; overall thickness (including material and laminate): <NUM>; laminate weight: <NUM> gsm; laminate thickness: <NUM>; non-laminate material thickness: <NUM>; non-laminate material weight: <NUM> gsm.

As discussed above, one or more layers may be positioned between the top layer and the bottom layer. For example, the top layer may be composed of a variety of materials, such as material that is hydrophobic, material that is hydrophilic, or a blend of materials (such as one material in the blend being hydrophilic and another material in the blend being hydrophobic). The one or more middle layers may comprise at least one middle layer that at least partly absorbs liquid (e.g., a hydrophilic material that attracts water). In one or some embodiments, the bottom layer may be waterproof and/or at least partially water repelling (such as completely water repelling).

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional view <NUM> of another example of animal bedding illustrating a fleece layer <NUM> (which is an example of the top layer), an absorbent layer <NUM> (which is one example of one of the one or more middle layers and comprises a hydrophilic material), a 3D air mesh layer <NUM> (which is another example of one of the one or more middle layers that may act as a supporting layer), and a waterproof layer <NUM> (which is an example of the bottom layer). Separate from, or in addition to, 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, supporting layer(s) may be include any one, any combination, or all of: one or more sponges; corrugated-type plastic and/or rubber material; honeycomb pattern sheet comprising (or alternatively consisting) of rubber material; open cell material; closed cell material; or gel-type material.

The fleece layer <NUM>, the absorbent layer <NUM>, and the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> are stitched together using stitching <NUM> so that a pattern is present on the top surface of the fleece layer <NUM>. An example of the pattern comprises a diamond shaped pattern, such as illustrated, for example, in <FIG>. Other patterns are contemplated, as discussed above.

<FIG> further illustrates stitching <NUM>. Thus, <FIG> illustrates two attachments, with a first attachment (e.g., stitching <NUM>) that attaches the top layer (e.g., fleece layer <NUM>) with the bottom layer (e.g., waterproof layer <NUM>) and with a second attachment (e.g., stitching <NUM>) that attaches the top layer (e.g., fleece layer <NUM>) with the one or more middle layers (e.g., both the absorbent layer <NUM> and the 3D air mesh layer <NUM>). As shown, stitching <NUM> also connects the absorbent layer <NUM> and the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> with the waterproof layer <NUM>. Stitching <NUM> may be along at least a part of the periphery of the animal bedding, such as along an entirety of the periphery of the animal bedding (e.g., such as similar to stitching <NUM> around an entire perimeter of main section <NUM>). Alternatively, or in addition, stitching <NUM> may be such that a pattern may be present on at least a part of the surface of the fleece layer <NUM>, such as at least over <NUM>% of the surface of the fleece layer <NUM>, at least over <NUM>% of the surface of the fleece layer <NUM>, at least over <NUM>% of the surface of the fleece layer <NUM>, at least over <NUM>% of the surface of the fleece layer <NUM>, at least over <NUM>% of the surface of the fleece layer <NUM>, or <NUM> % of the surface of the fleece layer <NUM>.

Thus, <FIG> illustrates that 3D air mesh layer <NUM> is positioned between absorbent layer <NUM> and waterproof layer <NUM>. In one embodiment, there may be no other layers so that 3D air mesh layer <NUM> is sandwiched directly between absorbent layer <NUM> and waterproof layer <NUM>. Alternatively, one or more layers may be positioned on either side of 3D air mesh layer <NUM> (e.g., one or more layers between 3D air mesh layer <NUM> and absorbent layer <NUM> and/or one or more layers between 3D air mesh layer <NUM> and waterproof layer <NUM>) so that 3D air mesh layer <NUM> is sandwiched indirectly between absorbent layer <NUM> and waterproof layer <NUM>.

3D air mesh layer <NUM> may include one or more qualities, such as one or both of: (<NUM>) greater rigidity (e.g., the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> is more rigid (e.g., has less flexibility) than any one, any combination, or all of fleece layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM> or waterproof layer <NUM>); and (<NUM>) at least partly repel water. 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may include gaps (such as air gaps resulting in a 3D air mesh) within the 3D structure (e.g., a honeycomb structure), such that the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may comprises any one of the following solid/air structures: <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air; or <NUM>% structure vs. <NUM>% air. 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may be composed of a variety of material. As one example, 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may be composed of polyester.

In one or some embodiments, 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may be composed of at least two separate fabric layers knitted together. Alternatively, 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may be composed of at least three separate fabric layers knitted together (e.g., in a three fabric layer 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, a face and a back may be connected by a monofilament yarn to produce a connecting cushion). Still alternatively, 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may be composed of at least four separate fabric layers knitted together. In one or some embodiments, each layer of the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may be knitted simultaneously by a single machine. An example disclosure of cushioning fabric is in <CIT>. Examples of mesh fabric are disclosed in <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>. In one or some embodiments, the <NUM>-D mesh layer comprises <NUM> or more layers of fabric (e.g., at least <NUM> separate layers of fabric) that is connected or knitted together (e.g., via vertical fibers, such as vertical plastic fibers). Thus, in one or some embodiments, the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may comprise three-dimensional mesh fabric, which may be a special type of knitted spacer fabric, with sandwich structure comprising (or consisting of) two separate meshed multifilament outer layers linked together with a layer of spacer monofilaments.

In one or some embodiments, the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may have a thickness that is greater than any one, any combination, or all of fleece layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM>, and waterproof layer <NUM> (though not as depicted in <FIG>). In particular, the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may have a thickness that is at least two times greater than any one, any combination, or all of fleece layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM>, and waterproof layer <NUM> (e.g., in one embodiment, 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, having multiple layers of fabric sewn together, may be at least two times thicker than fleece layer <NUM> and/or absorbent layer <NUM>). Alternatively, instead of (or in addition to) 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, compressible foam may be used.

3D air mesh layer <NUM> may result in one or more of the following benefits. First, 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may act as a cushion resulting in the animal bedding being softer. In this regard, 3D air mesh layer <NUM> is an example of a cushion layer. This may be beneficial in that the animal bedding is more comfortable for guinea pigs and better for the guinea pigs' joints (e.g., more comfortable bedding may be beneficial for older guinea pigs that already suffer from joint problems and for younger guinea pigs to avoid future joint problems). Second, 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may provide further rigidity for the animal bedding, so that the animal bedding may keep its shape during washing (e.g., the absorbent layer <NUM>, which may be composed of bamboo and comprise a bamboo layer or a bamboo blend layer, may tend to shrink; the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may counteract that tendency). Third, cleaning may be easier with 3D air mesh layer <NUM>. As one example, 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, with its holes therein, may create an air gap, which may help with the washing and the drying of the absorbent layer <NUM>. As another example, the air gap created by 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may assist in drying of urine (e.g., because of the air gap, urine may dry quicker and may spread better, thereby potentially reducing the smell).

3D air mesh layer <NUM> may be connected to any one, any combination, or all of fleece layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM> and waterproof layer <NUM> in one of several ways. In one way, stitching <NUM> may connect 3D air mesh layer <NUM> to all of fleece layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM> and waterproof layer <NUM>. Alternatively, or in addition, stitching may connect 3D air mesh layer <NUM> to one or both of the fleece layer <NUM> and the absorbent layer <NUM> (<FIG> illustrates that stitching <NUM> attaches 3D air mesh layer <NUM> to both of fleece layer <NUM> and absorbent layer <NUM>; in contrast, <FIG> illustrates that stitching <NUM> does not attach 3D air mesh layer <NUM> to both of fleece layer <NUM> and absorbent layer <NUM>). Further, in one embodiment, a gap is present on one or both sides of 3D air mesh layer <NUM> (e.g., <FIG> illustrates a gap on a first side of 3D air mesh layer <NUM> facing absorbent layer <NUM> and on a second side facing waterproof layer <NUM>). Alternatively, a gap is not present on either side of 3D air mesh layer <NUM>.

Any one, any combination, or all of the fleece layer <NUM>, the absorbent layer <NUM>, the 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, the waterproof layer <NUM> or a pocket (such as illustrated in <FIG>) may be coated with an antimicrobial agent or solution. As discussed above, guinea pigs may be vulnerable to bacterial infection. As such, an antimicrobial agent may be added to one or more of the layers, such as the absorbent layer <NUM> (and potentially to the fleece layer <NUM> and/or to the 3D air mesh layer <NUM>). An example of an antimicrobial agent comprises SILVADUR™ from DuPont. See https://www. dupontnutritionandbiosciences. com/silvadur. Other an antimicrobial agents are contemplated. The antimicrobial agent may be applied by padding, exhaustion, printing, or spray application, such as during the manufacture of the absorbent layer <NUM>.

Waterproof layer <NUM> may be waterproof on one or more its sides. In one or some embodiments, waterproof layer <NUM> may be waterproof (or water resistant) on only one side, such as by applying a laminate (e.g., PUL) on the side that faces 3D air mesh layer <NUM> (whether or not there are intervening layers between 3D air mesh layer <NUM> and waterproof layer <NUM>). Alternatively, waterproof layer <NUM> may be waterproof on only two of its sides. In particular, a laminate may be applied to both sides of the waterproof layer <NUM>, such as the one side facing 3D air mesh layer <NUM> and the opposite side (e.g., the side that contacts the ground). Still alternatively, waterproof layer <NUM> may be waterproof on all of its sides.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional view <NUM> of another example of animal bedding illustrating the fleece layer <NUM>, the absorbent layer <NUM>, the 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, and the waterproof layer <NUM>, with the fleece layer <NUM> and the absorbent layer <NUM> (but not the 3D air mesh layer <NUM>) stitched together with stitching <NUM> so that a pattern is present on the top surface of the fleece layer <NUM>. Thus, <FIG> differs from <FIG> in that stitching <NUM> stitches each of the fleece layer <NUM>, the absorbent layer <NUM>, the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> together whereas stitching <NUM> stitches the fleece layer <NUM> and the absorbent layer <NUM> together but not the 3D air mesh layer <NUM>.

Though not illustrated in <FIG>, in one or some embodiments, a pocket may be included (such as illustrated in <FIG>). As discussed above, the pocket may be less than half the surface area of the top layer (such as half the surface of fleece layer <NUM>). The pocket may be attached to the top layer (such as fleece layer <NUM>) along one or more side of the pocket (such as along three of the sides of the pocket) via stitching <NUM>. Alternatively, no pocket is included.

As discussed above, various parts of the animal bedding may be attached together. According to the invention, the attachment comprises a connection device that is composed of two parts and is designed so that the end-user can detach the two parts and then re-attach the two parts. An example of such an attachment that is a connection device comprises a zipper, clasp snap buttons, or other type of binding device used to bind edges of parts of the animal bedding together. As discussed in more detail below, for cleaning, the end-user may detach the two parts and clean one or both of the parts separately. For example, the animal bedding may be composed (or consist) of a first part and a second part, with the first part and the second part being attached together via a zipper (or the like). In the case of a zipper, the attachment may include two mating pieces, such as a first set of teeth and a second set of teeth that are made to interdigitate thereby linking the first set of teeth with the second set of teeth. In order to bind the first part with the second part using the zipper, the first set of teeth may be sewn into the edge of the first part (such as along an entire perimeter or along substantially the entire perimeter of the edge of the first part) and the second set of teeth may be sewn into the edge of the second part (such as along an entire perimeter or along substantially the entire perimeter of the edge of the second part). In this way, the zipper (which acts as an attachment) is configured to attach the first part to the second part in one configuration such that the first part and the second part are a unitary device (e.g., when the first set of teeth and the second set of teeth interlink) and to detach the first part from the second part in another configuration such that the first part and the second part are disconnected from one another. In this regard, the zipper comprises a different type of attachment than stitching or other permanent or non-reversible connection.

<FIG> illustrate various forms of the first part and the second part of the animal bedding, with <FIG> illustrating the first part, <FIG>-C illustrating the second part, and <FIG> illustrating both the first part and the second part connected to one another. In particular, <FIG> is a front perspective view <NUM> of a first part of the animal bedding, with a pocket <NUM> covering part of the top surface of the top layer <NUM> of the first part of the animal bedding (an example of the top surface of the top layer <NUM> is shown at <NUM> in <FIG>), with a set of teeth <NUM> for one part of a zipper, and with the top layer <NUM> including a diamond stitching pattern. Set of teeth <NUM> may be connected (e.g., stitched or glued) to one, some or all of the layers of the first part. In practice, the guinea pig may sit on the top surface of the top layer <NUM> (e.g., may burrow underneath the pocket <NUM> while on the top surface of the top layer <NUM>). An example of the top layer <NUM> is fleece layer <NUM>, discussed below with regard to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a bottom perspective view <NUM> of the first part of the animal bedding, illustrating a bottom surface of the protective layer <NUM> (an example of the bottom surface of the protective layer <NUM> is surface <NUM> of non-waterproof layer <NUM> in <FIG>) and the set of teeth <NUM> for the one part of a zipper. An example of the protective layer <NUM> is non-waterproof layer <NUM>, discussed below with regard to <FIG>.

<FIG> is one example of a cross-sectional view <NUM> of A-A' from <FIG>. Pocket <NUM> may be attached to top layer <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, pocket <NUM> is attached to each of top layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM>, and protective layer <NUM> via stitching <NUM>. Alternatively, pocket <NUM> is not included. In one embodiment, even without pocket <NUM>, stitching <NUM> is used to attach each of each of top layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM>, and protective layer <NUM> together. Alternatively, without pocket <NUM>, stitching is not included as well. Separately, top layer <NUM> and one or both of absorbent layer <NUM> and protective layer <NUM> may be connected via stitching. For example, each of top layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM>, and protective layer <NUM> may be connected via stitching <NUM> (as illustrated in <FIG>), which may be separate from stitching <NUM>. Further, protective layer <NUM> includes bottom surface <NUM>, which may face the second part of the animal bedding when connected via zipper <NUM>. Zipper <NUM> may be attached to the animal bedding in one or more places, such as to any one, any combination, or all of top layer <NUM>, the absorbent layer <NUM>, or the protective layer <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, zipper <NUM> is attached to the protective layer <NUM>. The attachment of the zipper <NUM> to any one, any combination, or all of top layer <NUM>, the absorbent layer <NUM>, or the protective layer <NUM> may be in one of several ways, such as via glue, heat bonding, and/or stitching.

<FIG> is another example of a cross-sectional view <NUM> of A-A' from <FIG>. In contrast to <FIG>, top layer <NUM> is connected to absorbent layer <NUM> but not to protective layer <NUM> via stitching <NUM>.

<FIG> is a bottom perspective view <NUM> of a second part of the animal bedding, with a bottom surface of the waterproof layer <NUM> shown (an example of the surface of the waterproof layer <NUM> is surface <NUM> of waterproof layer <NUM> in <FIG>), and with a set of teeth <NUM> for a second part of a zipper designed to mate with the first part of the zipper shown in <FIG> (e.g., set of teeth <NUM> interlock with set of teeth <NUM>). Set of teeth <NUM> may be connected (e.g., stitched or glued) to one, some or all of the layers of the second part. According to the invention, waterproof layer <NUM> includes multiple levels, such as illustrated in <FIG>.

As shown, both set of teeth <NUM> of the first part and set of teeth <NUM> of the second part are entirely around (or substantially entirely around) a perimeter of each of the first part and the second part. <FIG> is a top perspective view <NUM> of the second part of the animal bedding, illustrating the top surface of the waterproof layer <NUM> (an example of the top surface of the waterproof layer <NUM> is surface <NUM> of waterproof layer <NUM> in <FIG>) and the set of teeth <NUM> for the second part of a zipper. It is noted that the waterproof layer illustrated in <FIG> comprises a multi-leveled structure, such as illustrated by waterproof layer <NUM> in <FIG> inside which resides a cavity.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional view of another example of animal bedding <NUM> with two parts that are connected to one another via a zipper <NUM>. The first part comprises fleece layer <NUM>, absorbent layer <NUM>, non-waterproof layer <NUM>, and the first part of zipper <NUM> (e.g., first set of teeth for the zipper <NUM>). The second part comprises waterproof layer <NUM>, cushion layer <NUM>, plastic board <NUM>, and second part of zipper <NUM> (e.g., the second set of teeth designed to interlock with the first set of teeth for the zipper <NUM>). Thus, the absorbent layer <NUM>, which may comprise bamboo or a bamboo blend, of the first part may be separated from the second part, such as from the waterproof layer <NUM> of the second part via one or more layers, such as non-waterproof layer <NUM>.

Plastic board <NUM> may be composed of any type of plastic, such as synthetic or semi-synthetic materials that use polymers as an ingredient (such as a main ingredient). Merely by way of example, plastic board <NUM> may be composed of polyethylene.

As discussed above, a cushion layer (an example of which is 3D air mesh layer <NUM>) may be used so that the animal bedding may be more comfortable for guinea pigs and may be better for the guinea pigs' joints. One example is cushion layer <NUM>. Various examples of cushion layer <NUM> are contemplated. As one example, cushion layer <NUM> may comprise the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> discussed above. Alternatively, or in addition, cushion layer <NUM> may comprise one or more sponges (or one or more sponge layers), which may fill the cavity (apart from plastic board <NUM> inserted therein). In one embodiment, a first sponge is placed on top of a second sponge, with at least one aspect of the first sponge being different from the second sponges. As one example, the first sponge may be any one, any combination, or all of softer, less dense, or less firm than the second sponge. In particular, the first sponge may comprise a Polyurethane (PU) foam and the second sponge may comprise a Polyethylene (PE) foam. In this way, the cushion layer <NUM> may provide for shock absorbency for the animal.

As shown in <FIG>, the cushion layer <NUM> is positioned above plastic board <NUM>. Alternatively, cushion layers may be on either side of plastic board <NUM>, such as directly above and/or directly below plastic board <NUM>, or above plastic board <NUM> (with one or more intermediate layers) and/or below plastic board <NUM> (with one or more intermediate layers). Cushion layer <NUM> is different from plastic board <NUM> in one or more aspects, such as in rigidity with plastic board <NUM> being more rigid than cushion layer <NUM> (e.g., cushion layer <NUM> has more flexibility than plastic board <NUM>).

The waterproof layer <NUM> comprises a multi-level structure and at least partly encircles one or both of cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM>. For example, waterproof layer <NUM> may encircle at least on two sides of one or both of cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM>, at least on three sides of one or both of cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM>, or entirely encircle on all four sides of one or both of cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM>.

According to the invention, waterproof layer <NUM> comprises multiple levels to form a cavity contained therein. The cavity of the waterproof layer <NUM> may include one or more internal cavity layers, such as a first interior cavity layer and a second interior cavity layer. In one or some embodiments, after inserting cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM> in the cavity (both of which may act as interior cavity layers), waterproof layer <NUM> may be permanently sealed (e.g., by applying heat to melt the opening of the waterproof layer <NUM> through which cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM> were inserted) such that no water may enter therein after permanent sealing. Alternatively, after inserting cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM> in the cavity, waterproof layer <NUM> may be temporarily sealed (e.g., via a zipper closing the opening of the waterproof layer through which cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM> were inserted) such that no water may enter therein after temporary sealing. In one or some embodiments, one or both of cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM> are at least ¼ inch (<NUM>,<NUM>), at least <NUM>/<NUM> inch (<NUM>,<NUM>), or at least ½ inch (<NUM>,<NUM>). Thus, in one or some embodiments, the second part, which includes waterproof layer <NUM>, cushion layer <NUM> and plastic board <NUM>, may comprise a plastic mat with a cushion and/or rigid layer therein.

As discussed above, one or more of the layers may be used to absorb liquid, such as urine. For example, absorbent layer <NUM>, which may be composed of bamboo or a bamboo blend, may be used to absorb the liquid. However, when washing the animal bedding, such as washing in a washing machine, shrinkage of the layer(s), such as shrinkage of the absorbent layer <NUM>, <NUM>, may occur. In order to reduce the potential for shrinkage, various types of animal bedding may be used in which one or more layers may be used as a protective layer to reduce shrinkage and/or to better maintain the shape of the animal bedding. In one or some embodiments, this protective layer may be in the form of a 3D mesh, such as 3D air mesh layer <NUM>, whereby the rigidity of the 3D air mesh layer <NUM> may maintain or stretch the absorbent layer, thereby reducing shrinkage.

Alternatively, or in addition, this protective layer may be in the form of non-waterproof layer <NUM>. As mentioned above, shrinkage may occur during washing. In that regard, prior to washing the animal bedding, such as animal bedding <NUM>, the animal bedding may be separated into the two separate parts (e.g., unzipping the animal bedding so that the first part and the second part are no longer connected). In this way, the first part and the second part may be reversibly attached and detached, with detaching allowing the first part and the second part to be cleaned separately and in different ways. For example, first part (illustrated in <FIG>) may be cleaned in a washing machine, whereas second part (illustrated in <FIG>) may be cleaned by wiping down the waterproof layer <NUM> by hand with a disinfectant. Further, first part may likely need to be cleaned more often since it will become dirtier with urine/feces than second part. Therefore, first part alone may be cleaned more often than the second part, reducing wear on the second part. Because of this, the second part may be cleaned less than the first part, thereby lasting longer. Further, the animal bedding may last longer by only purchasing a new first part (after the original first part wears out from washing) without needing to purchase the second part, thereby being more ecologically friendly. In addition, because the first part is detached from the second part while cleaning, the first part may dry more quickly after removal from the washing machine. Finally, to the extent the first part may shrink from washing, when reattaching the second part to the first part (e.g., reconnecting the first part to the second part via the zipper), the second part, with the rigidity of plastic board <NUM>, may stretch the first part to the extent any layer of the first part (such as absorbent layer <NUM>) may have shrunk.

As discussed above, a protective layer, such as non-waterproof layer <NUM>, may be used to protect the absorbent layer <NUM>. The protective layer may abut absorbent layer <NUM> on one side (such as illustrated in <FIG>). Alternatively, one or more intermediate layers may be in between the protective layer and the absorbent layer <NUM>.

The non-waterproof layer <NUM> may be composed of any one or both of polyester (or other synthetic fiber) or cotton. For example, in one embodiment, the non-waterproof layer may comprise a thin cotton fabric, such as a thin fleece made with or without cotton. In particular, the thin fleece may have a lower gsm, such as less than <NUM> gsm, less than <NUM> gsm, or the like.

The protective layer may assist both when the first part and the second part are attached to one another and when the first part is detached from the second part. When the first part and the second part are connected, even if the absorbent layer <NUM> absorbs liquid, the protective layer may also be able to transmit liquids, such as urine, that passes from the absorbent layer <NUM> so that the liquid sits on top of the waterproof layer <NUM>. When the first part and the second part are disconnected in order to wash the first part, the protective layer (e.g., the non-waterproof layer <NUM>) may protect the absorbent layer <NUM> during the washing and/or drying process. The absorbent layer <NUM> may include batting, so that without the non-waterproof layer <NUM> as protection, the absorbent layer <NUM> may be damaged in the washing process.

<FIG> is a second example of a front perspective view <NUM> of a first part of the animal bedding reversibly attached to a second part of the animal bedding using a zipper <NUM>, with a pocket <NUM> covering part of the top layer of the first part of the animal bedding, with a set of teeth for one part of a zipper, and with the top layer including a diamond stitching pattern <NUM>. As discussed above, various types of connections may reversibly attach the first part to the second part including any one, any combination, or all of: one or more zippers; one or more buttons; one or more strips of Velcro (or other type of hook-and-fastener, such as a first component featuring tiny hooks and a second component for mating with the first component featuring smaller loops); or one or more magnets.

<FIG> is a cross-section <NUM> of a part of the animal bedding shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is an illustration when the first part and the second part are reversibly connective together. As shown in <FIG>, <NUM> may comprise a fleece pocket, <NUM> may comprise a fleece upper layer (shown in <FIG>), <NUM> may comprise a layer of any one, any combination, or all of: bamboo (e.g., for an absorbent layer); bamboo blend; cotton; cotton blend; synthetic (e.g., polyester); or synthetic blend, and <NUM> may act as a protective layer to layer <NUM> and may comprise any one, any combination, or all of: cotton; cotton blend; synthetic; or synthetic blend. In one or some embodiments, the first part may comprise any one, any combination, or all of: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. As one example, the first part may or may not include pocket <NUM>. As another example, in one embodiment, the first part may include each of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> (with or without pocket <NUM>). Further, in such an embodiment, stitching <NUM> may stitch layer <NUM> with one or both of layers <NUM> and <NUM>.

In the embodiment where layers <NUM> and <NUM> are present (but not <NUM>) and where the pocket is present (e.g., layer <NUM>), the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Still alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In one embodiment in which no pocket (e.g., layer <NUM>) and layer <NUM> is present, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Still alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

Alternatively, the first part may include only <NUM> and <NUM> (without <NUM>) and with or without pocket <NUM>. In such an embodiment, layer <NUM> may be composed of cotton or fleece and layer <NUM> may be composed of a synthetic material (e.g., fleece), a synthetic blended with cotton, a cotton material, or the like. Further, layers <NUM> and <NUM> may be stitched together via stitching <NUM>.

As discussed above, layer <NUM> may comprise flexible synthetic material (e.g., vinyl or polyvinyl chloride), layer <NUM> may comprise a cushion, layer <NUM> may comprise a rigid synthetic material (e.g., Poly Ethylene, Poly Propylene (PP), and Poly Ethylene Terephthalate (PET), and layer <NUM> may comprise a flexible synthetic material identical to layer <NUM>. The first part, when unzipped to the second part, includes layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The second part, when unzipped to the first part, includes layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Still alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In one embodiment in which no pocket is present, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Still alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top perspective view <NUM> of the second part of the animal bedding with a plurality of snaps or buttons <NUM> for connection to mating snaps or buttons <NUM> on the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in <FIG>. As shown, the snaps or buttons <NUM> may be distributed (such as evenly distributed) on the n-sided (such as <NUM>-sided as shown in <FIG>) structure. In one embodiment, the snaps or buttons <NUM> are on each of the n-sided structure, such as on each of the <NUM> sides of the <NUM>-sided structure. Alternatively, the snaps or buttons <NUM> are on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the <NUM>-sided structure or such as on only three sides the <NUM>-sided structure.

<FIG> is a bottom perspective view <NUM> of the first part of the animal bedding with a plurality of snaps or buttons <NUM> for a mating connection to the snaps or buttons <NUM> on the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in <FIG>. As shown, the snaps or buttons <NUM> may be distributed (such as evenly distributed) on the n-sided (such as <NUM>-sided as shown in <FIG>) structure. Since snaps or buttons <NUM> are to mate with snaps or buttons <NUM>, in one embodiment, the snaps or buttons <NUM> are on each of the n-sided structure, such as on each of the <NUM> sides of the <NUM>-sided structure. Alternatively, the snaps or buttons <NUM> are on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the <NUM>-sided structure or such as on only three sides the <NUM>-sided structure.

<FIG> is a top perspective view <NUM> of the second part of the animal bedding with Velcro <NUM> for connection to the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in <FIG>. Velcro is an example of hook-and-loop fasteners, hook-and-pile fasteners, touch fasteners, slidingly engaging fasteners, etc. In one or some embodiments, Velcro includes a first component (put on one of the first part or the second part) featuring tiny hooks, and a second component (put on the other of the first part or the second part) featuring smaller loops. When the first component and the second component are pressed together the hooks catch in the loops and the two pieces fasten or bind temporarily. When separated, by pulling or peeling the two surfaces apart, the strips make a distinctive ripping sound. As shown, the Velcro <NUM> may be positioned along a respective edge of the <NUM>-sided structure. Further, in one embodiment, the Velcro <NUM> is on each side of the n-sided structure, such as on each side of the <NUM>-sided structure. Alternatively, the Velcro <NUM> is on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the <NUM>-sided structure or such as on only three sides the <NUM>-sided structure. In addition, in one embodiment, the Velcro <NUM> is along an entire side of a respective side of the n-sided structure and on each of the sides, as shown in <FIG>. Alternatively, the Velcro <NUM> is along less than an entire side of the respective side of the n-sided structure (e.g., along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side).

<FIG> is a bottom perspective view <NUM> of the first part of the animal bedding with Velcro <NUM> for a mating connection to the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in <FIG>. As discussed above, one of the first part (illustrated in <FIG>) or the second part (illustrated in <FIG>) includes the first component of the Velcro and the other of the first part (illustrated in <FIG>) or the second part (illustrated in <FIG>) includes the second component of the Velcro. Further, similar to <FIG>, since the Velcro <NUM> is to mate with the Velcro <NUM>, the Velcro <NUM> may be positioned along a respective edge of the <NUM>-sided structure. Further, in one embodiment, the Velcro <NUM> is on each side of the n-sided structure, such as on each side of the <NUM>-sided structure. Alternatively, the Velcro <NUM> is on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the <NUM>-sided structure or such as on only three sides the <NUM>-sided structure. In addition, in one embodiment, the Velcro <NUM> is along an entire side of a respective side of the n-sided structure and on each of the sides, as shown in <FIG>. Alternatively, the Velcro <NUM> is along less than an entire side of the respective side of the n-sided structure (e.g., along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side; along no more than <NUM>% of the length of the respective side).

<FIG> is a top perspective view <NUM> of the second part of the animal bedding with a plurality of magnets (<NUM> shown in <FIG>) for connection to the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in <FIG>. For example, a plurality of magnets of a first polarity may be positioned on (or within) the first part (shown in <FIG>) and a plurality of magnets of second polarity opposite the first polarity may be positioned on (or within) the second part (shown in <FIG>). Stitching <NUM> is shown where the magnets are sewn into the interior of the second part (depicted in <FIG>). Again, alternatively, the magnets may be placed on the surface of the second part (rather than put in the interior of the second part).

<FIG> is a bottom perspective view <NUM> of the first part of the animal bedding with opposite polarity of a plurality of magnets for connection to the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in <FIG>. Stitching <NUM> is shown where the magnets are sewn into the interior of the first part (depicted in <FIG>). Again, alternatively, the magnets may be placed on the surface of the first part (rather than put in the interior of the first part).

<FIG> is a cross-section <NUM> of the second part of the animal bedding shown in <FIG>. As discussed above, a plurality of layers may be included in the second part, such as illustrated in <FIG>. Further, a magnet <NUM> may be embedded into of the layers, such as any one, any combination, or all of: layers <NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM>; or <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the magnet <NUM> is included or embedded in cushion layer <NUM>. Stitching <NUM> may be used to secure magnet <NUM> into the respective layer.

Claim 1:
Animal bedding (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a first part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
an upper layer (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
a lower layer (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
a second part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein a first type of attachment (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to attach the first part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to the second part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
wherein a second type of attachment (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) attaches the upper layer (<NUM>, <NUM>) to the lower layer (<NUM>, <NUM>),
wherein the second type of attachment (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is of a different type than the first type of attachment (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the second type of attachment (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises a permanent or non-reversible type of attachment,
and wherein the first type of attachment (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to reversibly attach the first part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to the second part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and detach the first part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) from the second part (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
characterized in that the second part includes a multi-leveled structure that includes waterproof layers (<NUM>, <NUM>) attached to one another to form a cavity contained therein.