Why Do Cats Love Boxes So Much?
If you've ever brought home a shiny new toy for your cat, only to watch them ignore it in favor of the cardboard box it came in, you're not alone. It’s one of the great mysteries of cat ownership. Why are they so obsessed with boxes? As it turns out, there is some logic behind it beyond cats just being plain weird.
Let’s take a closer look at the science, instincts, and sheer cat reasoning behind their cardboard fascination.
Safety and Security
Moving through the world as both a predator and prey can be a difficult existence. In nature, cats are both. This means they frequently seek out enclosed spaces to hide from larger predators and to observe their environment without being seen. A box provides the perfect hideaway (or at least they think) where your cat can feel safe, sheltered, and in control. Think of it like a mini fortress!
Help Regulating Body Temperature
Cats love to be warm. They run hotter than humans and that’s why you’ll find them soaking up sunbeams or curling up in freshly dried laundry every chance they can get. Cardboard acts as a natural insulator, and depending on their size, a small, enclosed space can help retain body heat, like a cozy fleece blanket fort.
Private Comfort and Less Stress
Believe it or not, cardboard boxes have been shown to reduce stress in cats – especially in new environments. Studies have shown that shelter cats who were given boxes to hide in adapted faster and showed fewer signs of anxiety than those without. Boxes offer a private retreat where cats can decompress and feel calm.
If your cat is dealing with change (like a new pet, baby, or move), a cardboard box to call their own might be a surprisingly effective way to support their emotional well-being.
The Ultimate Playgrounds
Boxes aren’t just about comfort or survival, they’re also incredibly fun! As an owner, if you want to get creative, grab a glue gun and a handful of boxes of different sizes, then cut little doorways into them and attach them together. They will have the time of their lives!
Should You Let Your Cat Play in a Box?
Yes, absolutely! It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to enrich your cat’s environment. Whether it's a big moving box, a shoebox, or even a cardboard castle of your own making, just be sure to:
Remove any staples, tape, or plastic
Avoid boxes that have housed chemicals or food
Monitor play for safety, especially if the box is small or easily tipped