Why Does My Cat Love Boxes?

You buy your cat a lovely new bed, and they ignore it to sit in the box it came in. Every cat owner knows the feeling. It turns out there are good reasons cats are drawn to boxes.

Why cats love boxes

• Safety: enclosed spaces protect them on all sides, which helps them relax.
• Stress relief: studies of shelter cats suggest that having a hiding box can help cats settle faster.
• Warmth: cardboard holds heat, and cats love being cosy.
• Hunting instinct: a box is the perfect spot to watch and pounce from.
• Curiosity: anything new in the house must be investigated.

Making the most of it

1. Keep a box or two around as free entertainment and a safe space.
2. Remove tape, staples and plastic so the box is safe.
3. Put a blanket inside for extra comfort.
4. Try a covered or cave-style bed: it gives the same snug, safe feeling, but lasts longer.
5. Hide treats or toys inside for a fun game.

Is it ever a worry?

Sitting in boxes is healthy and normal. But if your cat suddenly hides in boxes all day, avoids people and stops eating or playing, it may be a sign of stress or illness, so check in with your vet.

The heart of it

To your cat, a simple box is a castle, a hideout and a cosy bed all in one. It’s one of the easiest ways to make them happy, and one of the funniest things to watch.