Cats prefer cardboard boxes to toys because these confined spaces provide them with a sense of security and offer them an environment conducive to exploration and rest.
Cats have a natural attraction to small confined spaces. In the wild, entering a narrow place allows them to hide, observe their surroundings, and hunt discreetly without being detected by their prey or potential predators. It is this ancient instinct that drives domestic felines to sneak into all sorts of tight spots, even when they live comfortably at home. A cardboard box gives them exactly that reassuring feeling of being protected and controlling their territory. For them, it’s simple: small space equals safety and comfort.
For cats, boxes represent a quiet corner where they can isolate themselves from the surrounding bustle. This secure and confined aspect reduces their stress, especially when they feel nervous or when their environment changes suddenly (moving, a visit to the vet, the arrival of another animal...). Taking refuge in a cardboard box is like finding the perfect hiding spot: they feel protected while discreetly observing what is happening outside. This sense of control and serenity explains their spontaneous attraction to these improvised shelters.
A cardboard box is simple but works wonders with cats. This ordinary thing stimulates their natural desire to explore because they love to hide, spring out unexpectedly, or play ambush with their friends (or even with you). The box is a super handy playground: it quickly turns into a hiding spot or an observation post. As its smell and texture easily awaken their senses, it encourages the kitties to be active and playful longer than some complicated toys they often ignore after a few days. The more possibilities seem endless to them, the more it boosts their curiosity and play instinct.
Cats feel a so-called comfort temperature that is much higher than ours, usually around 30°C. As a result, cardboard boxes are the ideal place for them: cardboard is an excellent thermal insulator, it retains their body heat very well and allows them to stay warm more easily. They willingly settle in these boxes to maintain a comfortable and stable warmth, especially in cooler rooms. It's as if the cat has found a cozy little spot just the right size for it, which perfectly keeps its warmth—smart, right?
Often, a simple piece of cardboard intrigues Minou more than a high-tech toy. Why? Because cats prefer the basic and immediate aspect of a simple box. A sophisticated toy can sometimes be too unpredictable, too noisy, or too complicated, which ultimately disinterests our felines. In contrast, a cardboard box offers spontaneous play, without constraints, allowing their natural imagination to run free. Even the latest high-priced toy doesn't always compete with the simple pleasure of slipping into a box and settling in comfortably. A box is somewhat the perfect toy: simple, affordable, and above all, totally in tune with their current desires.
A study published in the journal Applied Animal Behaviour Science has shown that cats with access to cardboard boxes experience less stress and adapt better to new environments.
Cats see cardboard boxes as safe hideouts where they can discreetly observe their surroundings, thus activating their natural instinct as cautious predators.
The cardboard has ideal thermal properties for felines: it effectively captures and reflects their body heat, providing optimal comfort for your cat, even in cool weather.
Many shelters around the world use cardboard boxes to help newly welcomed felines adjust. This reduces stress and promotes calming for anxious or shy cats.
Most cats enjoy snug and cozy spaces. So choose a box that is small enough for your cat to feel snug, while still allowing it to turn around and lie down comfortably.
Absolutely! You can cut additional openings in it, place a comfortable cushion inside, or hide treats to encourage interaction and stimulate its natural curiosity.
Cats are attracted to simple objects that stimulate their natural instincts. A cardboard box provides security, thermal comfort, exploration opportunities, and better meets their natural expectations than overly sophisticated and inactive toys.
Observe their behavior: if they use the box when they feel stressed or want some peace, this indicates a refuge use. On the other hand, if they jump in, hide, and quickly come out or play with it, it is more about play.
In general, cardboard boxes are safe for your cat as long as they do not contain staples, tape, or toxic substances. However, keep an eye on your cat to ensure that it does not eat any pieces that could cause digestive issues or choking.
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