Do cats have a preference for felt over foam, or vice versa?Updated 3 months ago

Not that we've noticed, or at least, not in a generalized sense. All cats are different, with their own unique personalities and preferences, so some of them might very well prefer the feel of the felt, or the feel of the foam, and it's not something that can really be predicted. However, we haven't had any cases of cats absolutely rejecting either material, so no matter which one you get, you'll probably be just fine. Keep in mind that pads wear down over time and will need to be replaced eventually, so you can always try the other option at a later date if you feel like the one you first chose isn't working as well as you'd like. 

If you're not sure which material to start with, here are some ways that they differ:

1. Felt pads are more textured, making them rougher to the touch (not uncomfortably so; think of the feel of thin, tightly-woven carpet and you'll have a good idea of how felt feels under your cat's paws). This can provide cats with more traction, although typically the average cat can get plenty of traction regardless of whether you are using foam or felt pads.
2. Foam pads are smooth and soft. They are thicker and provide more cushioning.
3. Felt pads are more durable. Cats that have never used a wheel before tend to use their claws a lot for balance when first learning to run, and the felt will hold up against this kind of behavior better than the foam.
4. Because the foam pads are very soft, they will show claw marks faster than the felt.
5. Felt pads are not very resistant to water and can collect cat fur more easily than the foam. They are not as easy to keep clean since you may need to use a vacuum to get rid of accumulated fur. They may also be more prone to holding odors.
6. Foam pads have a slick surface that you can wipe down or hose off for a quick and easy cleaning. They will also resist fluids more easily, so they're a good option if you have a cat that likes to spray or mark its territory. The foam pads are not 100% waterproof though, so if your cat does have an accident on the wheel we recommend rinsing it off ASAP to avoid odor buildup. 
7. In terms of aesthetics, the felt pads are always solid colors, while the foam pads are patterned. If you're wanting bright or fun patterns, you'll need to choose the foam option.