Why Do Cat’s Like Boxes?

Why Do Cat’s Like Boxes?

Why do cat’s like boxes? If your cat is anything like Fang (our director of shipping) they love boxes! Fang can’t wait for me to finish unpacking a box before he hops in it.  Sometimes he curls up in it to sleep, other times he uses it as a pouncing spot and jumps out to “attack” us as we walk by.  Most of the time though Fang will chew on the box and tear it all apart.  So where does this love of boxes come from?

Instinct

Cat’s by nature are ambush predators, they will sneak up on their prey very quietly and swiftly. with this instinct engraved in their psyche cat’s are always on the lookout for places to hide and lie in wait for prey.  Another instinct reason for the love of boxes comes from the need to feel safe and secure.  In a small enclosed space they can rest easy, knowing the are safe, warm and comfortable.

Texture

Cat’s (just like us) have preferences to different textures. Quite often the texture of a cardboard box is one that can not be passed up.  Cat’s in general love to chew, bite, and scratch cardboard, for us humans this is great! So much better than our furry friends scratching up the leather couch…..

Cardboard Fun For your Cat

Things to do:

-Use the cardboard box during play time with your kitty, drag their favourite toys in and around the box to see what they do next

-leave the box in an open area and allow your cat plenty of time to sniff it over and inspect it

-use the box as a catnip delivery system, sprinkle catnip in the bottom of the box and when your cat is through it’s easy cleanup and recyclable too

Things to Make:

-make a cat bed using an old box and some of your cat’s favourite fabric items (shirt, blanket, towel)

-make a little house for your cat, cut holes out of these of the box so your cat can hide inside

-make a play tunnel using a few boxes connected together

No matter how you bring a cardboard box into your cat’s life, they will thank you for it.