I'm not sure the question being answered is the question you asked. Do you intend to make a big envelope, with the top part quilted, and stuff it with cedar chips or something like that? So the bottom of the quilted part will never be against anything but the cedar chips (or other stuffing)? If so, I would forget about batting altogether. If the reason for quilting the top is that it will be pieced, then I would put a backing under it (any fabric at all), but no batting. Or maybe I don't understand the question either.

Sorry for the delay in response
 

Somehow I didn't follow the replays to my question. Sorry.

I have made the covers with and without a backing to the top and batting. That would essentially form a 'quilt' although the backing would never be seen as it is enclosed in an envelope to insert the bedding.
I appreciate your responses.

I would put a backing on because dogs especially when on their on love to chew batting,

I would say YES your quilted top should be backed with something before quilting it even though it will be the top of an envelope type case for bedding. You said you have always backed before....I think you could get by with some very inexpensive lower grade muslin....or n ugly from your stash....or even head to your local resale shop and scrounge around for repurposing. Drapes, sheets...........

I agree with using flannel for the backing rather than batting. I quilted a top that I used for a duvet cover. I just quilted the top to flannel and then made the duvet cover with that. It has been washed many times without any problems. Well, except for where one of the dogs chewed on the corner :hunf:

...and I would think dog hair would stick to batting and fleece ( from my experience with dogs - haha) I'd vote muslin backing. Photo of finished item would be nice..