Why do cats like boxes?

You know the scene. The beautiful cat bed you bought for your cat online has just arrived, and you are very excited to unpack it. Once the new bed is on the floor, however, your cat completely ignores it and chooses to curl up inside the delivery box instead. But why is that? Where does this obsession with boxes come from? Well, here are a few pointers that may help explain it:

Cats are both hunter and prey, and this duality has given them a fear of open spaces. They prefer lurking in bushes or in the undergrowth, and when outside, they will run alongside fences or walls whenever possible. Staying out of sight gives them an edge when hunting for prey, but it also disguises them from predators such as foxes, coyotes, and racoons. For that reason, boxes provide cats with a sense of security. Like a bush outside, it is a safe space from which cats can observe their environment and keep an eye out for prey and predators alike. You can test the strength of your cat’s instinct to hide by conducting this fun experiment: in a relatively open room, make a square on the floor by using painter’s tape, and show it to your cat. Even though it isn’t a “real” box, most cats will be attracted to the safety of the square and go sit in the middle of it. The internet is full of fun videos and memes of cats doing just that!

Cats also love boxes because they find them physically comforting. The heat from the box can help them maintain their body temperature. The optimal ambient temperature for cats to do that is upwards of 85 degrees Fahrenheit, so small, enclosed spaces, like cardboard boxes, can provide the insulation needed to retain body heat. This also explains why many cats like basking in the sun, sleeping in the wardrobe, or hiding under the clothes in a laundry basket. Some longhaired cat breeds or cats with thyroid conditions prefer it a little cooler and may not be as attracted to boxes or sunlight as other cats.

Hiding in a box greatly reduces feline stress symptoms. When cats are overstimulated, tired, or just in need of a break, a box can give them the ability to retreat and recharge until they feel ready to socialize again. If you have a lot of commotion in your house, or if your cat is a recent addition to the family, a nice hiding box can help your cat feel more at ease.

The answer to that question is yes. Provided the box has been placed on a sturdy surface away from heaters and areas with heavy foot traffic, a box is a great form of enrichment for your cat. Before giving the box to your cat, however, you need to examine it to make sure all tape and staples have been removed. Cats like to rub up against things, and you don’t want your feline friend to get hurt. Many cats also enjoy scratching or chewing on cardboard boxes. Plain cardboard has a texture that cats find appealing, and as long as the box is free of tape, staples, and hasn’t been used to ship or store anything chemical, there is no harm in letting your cat have it as a toy. Cats have scent glands on their toe pads that leave a unique signature, so scratching cardboard boxes is an easy way for them to mark their territory and has the added benefit of keeping their claws away from your couch, bed, and other furniture pieces.

In conclusion, cats like a good box because it makes them feel safe, warm, and relaxed. Why they choose to squeeze themselves into the tiniest boxes out there, however, will likely remain a mystery furever!