Why Do Cats Love Boxes? (Featuring Fang, Director of Shipping)

If your feline friend is anything like Fang, our resident Director of Shipping, they probably have an absolute obsession with cardboard boxes.

Fang literally cannot wait for us to finish unpacking a delivery before he claims the box as his own. Sometimes he curls up inside for a cozy nap. Other times, he uses it as a tactical basecamp, launching surprise “attacks” on our ankles as we walk by. More often than not, Fang just loves to chew the box to absolute shreds.

So, what exactly is behind this universal feline love affair with cardboard? It boils down to two main things: instinct and texture.

1. Ambush Predator Instinct

At their core, cats are ambush predators. In the wild, they sneak up on their prey quietly and swiftly. Because this instinct is hardwired into their psyche, cats are always searching for enclosed spaces where they can hide and lie in wait.

But it’s not just about the hunt; it’s also about safety. A small, confined space gives a cat a sense of security. Inside a box, they know their flanks are protected, allowing them to relax, stay warm, and sleep without worrying about potential threats.

2. Texture

Just like humans, cats have strong tactile preferences—and cardboard happens to hit the jackpot. Many cats simply cannot resist the texture of a crisp box. They love to bite, chew, and scratch it.

Honestly, as cat parents, we should celebrate this! Every minute your furry friend spends shredding a cardboard box is a minute they aren’t scratching up your favorite leather couch.

Pro-Tip for Cardboard Lovers

If your cat is a total cardboard fanatic like Fang, you don’t have to wait around for your next online delivery. Most pet stores sell dedicated cardboard scratchers and scratch lounges. They give your cat that exact same satisfying texture they crave, come in tons of fun shapes, and keep the box-shredding joy going 24/7!

How to Turn Cardboard into Cat Entertainment

Don’t just leave the box on the floor—maximize the fun! Here are some great ways to level up your cat’s cardboard experience:

Interactive Play Ideas

• Level Up Playtime: Drag your cat’s favorite wand or string toys in, out, and around the box to watch their hunting instincts kick into overdrive.

• The Investigation: Leave a new box in an open area and just let them explore. Half the fun for a cat is the initial sniff-test and inspection.

• The Ultimate Catnip Delivery System: Sprinkle a little catnip at the bottom of the box. Your cat gets to roll around in bliss, and when they’re done, the mess stays contained. Plus, cleanup is as easy as tossing the box in the recycling bin!

Fun DIY Projects to Make

• The Cozy Cat Bed: Line an old box with some of your cat’s favorite fabric items—like an old t-shirt that smells like you, a soft blanket, or a fluffy towel.

• The Kitty Castle: Cut a few entry holes and “windows” into the sides of a larger box so your cat has a secret fort to peek out of.

• The Mega Tunnel: If you have a few boxes lying around, tape them together to create an epic play tunnel for your cat to sprint through.

No matter how you introduce a cardboard box into your cat’s life, one thing is for sure: they will absolutely thank you for it.