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If you’ve ever brought home a new purchase, only to find your cat more interested in the box it came in than the item itself, you’re not alone. Cats’ fascination with boxes is a well-documented phenomenon, and while it may seem puzzling to us, there are several reasons why these simple cardboard containers are so irresistible to our feline friends.

A Sanctuary of Security

First and foremost, boxes provide cats with a sense of security. In the wild, cats are both predators and prey, so they are instinctively drawn to enclosed spaces where they can hide from potential threats while still observing their surroundings.

A box offers a perfect vantage point, allowing a cat to feel safe and in control. This is especially important in a domestic environment, where a box can become a cozy refuge from the hustle and bustle of household activity.

The Perfect Ambush Spot

Another reason cats love boxes is that they are natural-born hunters, and a box serves as the ideal hiding spot for an ambush. Whether it’s a toy mouse, a feather, or even an unsuspecting human foot, cats love to pounce, and a box provides the perfect cover for a surprise attack. This behavior taps into their playful and predatory instincts, offering both entertainment and exercise.

Warmth and Comfort

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Boxes are also excellent insulators, helping cats to stay warm. Cats prefer temperatures around 86 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly warmer than the average household. Curling up in a box allows them to conserve body heat, making it an appealing resting spot. The enclosed space of a box helps trap their body heat, creating a snug and cozy environment.

The Texture Temptation

Lastly, the texture of a cardboard box is appealing to cats. Many cats enjoy scratching, biting, and even rubbing against the rough surface of a box. This not only helps them to keep their claws healthy but also allows them to mark their territory with scent glands located in their paws and face. The tactile experience of interacting with a box can be both satisfying and stimulating for a cat .

More Than Just a Box

So, the next time your cat chooses a box over a new bed or toy, remember that they’re just following their instincts. To them, a box is much more than a simple container—it’s a fortress, a hunting blind, and a cozy retreat all rolled into one. Embracing your cat's love for boxes can provide them with comfort, entertainment, and a sense of security, enriching their environment and strengthening your bond.

References

Bradshaw, J. W. (2018). The behavior of the domestic cat. CABI.

Johnson, P. (2021). Understanding your cat's instincts: The allure of boxes. Feline Behavior Journal, 12(3), 45-53.

Smith, R. (2020). The warmth of cardboard: Why cats love boxes. Journal of Feline Studies, 15(2), 34-42.

Turner, D. C. (2019). The domestic cat: The biology of its behaviour. Cambridge University Press.