Why Do Cats Love Cardboard Boxes?

Understanding why cats love cardboard boxes

We’ve all been there... you order your cat a new toy and he/ she is more interested in the box it came in! Cats are known to get comfort and security from enclosed spaces, but their fascination with boxes goes even deeper than that.

The science behind why cats like boxes so much and how they help cats to adapt

Research shows that cats in boxes experience less stress. Shelter cats with boxes so much recover faster and help cats to adapt to new environments. Dr. Claudia Vinke found that boxes provide warmth and protection, making feline companions feel secure. When a cat sees a safe small space, they’re more likely to curl up and relax.

Reasons why cats often prefer boxes over fancy beds and why boxes are safe

Cats often seek out hiding places where predators can’t surprise them. Since cats are ambush predators themselves, they understand the value of a good hiding place. A simple cardboard box offers:

• An enclosed space to help retain body heat

• A scratching post and a place to rest their chin

• A new toy in the form of a box to explore

The sensory appeal: why cats like the texture of cardboard

Cardboard is the perfect texture for cats, as it provides a scratchy surface for marking territory. Many cats also enjoy chewing on cardboard, though owners should monitor this behaviour to ensure they do not ingest pieces of it.

The smell factor: why cats also love the box it came in

A cat’s sense of smell is 14 times better than a human’s, and they like the smell of cardboard. When a cat sees a box to explore, they are curious to see what scents it might contain. The smell of the box itself can provide comfort, especially if it comes from a familiar place.

Why cats use boxes as hiding places

Cats don’t just sleep in boxes—they use boxes as hiding places for strategic reasons. When you see a simple cardboard box, your cat sees a secure retreat. Boxes provide:

• A place to spend hours every day sleeping safely

• A sense of comfort and security from enclosed spaces

• A hidden and safe environment from potential threats

How boxes help reduce cat anxiety and why cats eat inside them

It should come as no surprise that boxes help reduce stress in felines. Whether they eat, sleep, or play, they prefer having a safe retreat nearby. A box allows them to watch the world in comfort while feeling secure.

Safety considerations when your cat loves boxes so much

While it’s natural for a cat to bite or shred their cardboard kingdom, some safety aspects should be considered:

• Monitor any corner was bitten to prevent ingestion

• Ensure the box is clean and free from harmful residues

• Replace boxes when they become too worn

The perfect box setup: what to consider

Initially, I assumed any box would do, but there are ways to optimise your cat’s experience:

• Choose boxes that allow your cat to curl up and relax comfortably

• Add some catnip to make the space more appealing

• Ensure the box is stable when your cat needs to be able to jump in and out

Why cats don’t need expensive alternatives

While pet stores offer countless options, cats are known to prefer simple solutions. When you see the results of how much they love a basic box, you might wonder why you ever bought that expensive cat bed. Including uncomfortable places in your home, cats may still choose a cardboard box over any alternative.

Understanding your cat’s box behaviour

To really answer the questions about why cats like boxes, we need to see what the purpose of boxes is for them. Whether your cat loves to chew the corners, use it as a place to sleep but know they’re safe, or see a simple cardboard box as their favourite retreat, cardboard boxes fulfil many natural instincts.