It's a familiar scene: The package you've been anxiously awaiting finally arrives, you take out the cool new purchase, and your cat ... sits in the box. Why do cats like cardboard so much? Is it just for fun, or is there a scientific reason for the relationship between cats and cardboard boxes? It's a bit of both, actually.
Why Do Cats Like Cardboard Boxes?
Cats are quirky — it's one of the qualities that makes them so lovable. They spy on you, stare at walls and spend hours curled up in small spaces. Their favorite place? A box. Essentially, boxes are secure places where they can seek refuge from the environment and predators. And it's not just cardboard boxes; cats also like to hide in other small spaces such as under beds, in the back of closets and even in sinks.
Shelter
You think of your cat as a bundle of fur that you can hold in your lap and cuddle. In their mind, however, they're a big cat prowling the savanna and need a hideout. "Cats simply like to squeeze themselves into small spaces where they feel safe and secure," explained the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. "For them, it is far better than being exposed to danger in wide-open spaces." Boxes also provide warmth similar to what kittens receive from their moms. If your fur baby has a specific napping box, place a blanket or towel in it for maximum comfort.
Instinct
Cats love their creature comforts, but they are natural predators and retain their wild instincts even when they're hanging out with their humans in climate-controlled homes. Cats are pouncers and will hide in a box to stalk their prey, noted Pet Health Network — and that prey is usually your feet. Feel free to offer your cat a feather toy or other prey-like toy instead.
Tasty Tips
Stress Relief
Because the relationship between cats and cardboard boxes is rooted in comfort, organizations like Best Friends Animal Society recommended setting up a box (with entrance holes on at least one side) as a hiding spot where newly adopted cats can feel safe while acclimating to their home. The security of a snug spot with sturdy walls helps reduce the stress associated with a new living environment.
And now there's science to back up this observation. According to a study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, the boxes do, indeed, help to reduce stress.
The study found that shelter cats given cardboard box hiding spots adapted more quickly to their environment change than those cats without boxes, reaching the conclusion that "the hiding box appears to be an important enrichment for the cat to cope effectively with stressors in a new shelter environment the first weeks after arrival." This is great news for pet parents, knowing that a seemingly simple cardboard box can offer so much relief.
For the Fun of It
Scientific evidence aside, there's no denying that cats like to hang out in boxes just for fun, too. Boxes are places where kitties can sleep, sit and play. Why do cats like cardboard, in particular? They can chew or scratch the sides and not get in trouble for it like when, say, they use the couch as a scratching post.
Why Does My Cat Like A Cardboard Box More Than Their Carrier?
We've already identified that cats like small, dark spaces to hide away to make them feel safe and secure, which you would think would be a good description of a cat kennel or carrier. However, the last time you even got your cat carrier out of the closet your cat took off running to hide in one of their secret spots? So, why do cats have such an aversion to a kennel or a carrier. Well, the short answer is that cats are smart creatures and have good memories. Cats can recall the last association with that cat carrier, which might have been a trip to the vet or moving that they didn't love so much. Check out this article on how to get your cat used to their cat carrier.
New cat parents should stock up on several cardboard boxes and strategically place them around the house (hide-and-seek, anyone?) as a form of enrichment.
Before tossing your cardboard boxes into the recycling bin, consider whether it will make the perfect play place for your furry friend!
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Entrée Variety Pack
Feline Sensitive Stomach & Skin Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Liver Casserole Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Fewer calories for less active cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley Cat Food
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Beef Dinner
Gourmet daily nutrition, carefully made. Tasty chunks with chicken & beef in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Dinner Pouch Variety Pack Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Hairball Control cat food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Poached Salmon & Spinach Medley Cat Food
Delicious poached salmon paired with tender spinach in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Duck & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition (USA Study)
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Related articles
What Types of Litter, Food & Supplies Are Safe for Kittens?
Learn which types of products and supplies are safest for your kitten, including specific kinds of litter, food, shampoo, carriers, collars and toys.
The Changing Needs of a Kitten Becoming a Cat
Learn the needs of your aging kitten. It's nutritional and exercise requirements will start to change as it grows from being a kitten into an adult cat.
Understanding Your Overweight Cat
If you have an overweight cat, learn how this condition can affect your cat's health and tips for choosing the best cat food for weight loss.
Why Is My Cat Shaking and Shivering?
Why Is My Cat Shaking and Shivering?
Preparing Your Nervous Cat for Large Gatherings at Home
Having a large group over? Learn some helpful ways to prepare your nervous cat and keep her from feeling overwhelmed by the amount of people and noise.
Cats & Slow Blinking: What Does it Mean?
Learn what your cat really means when she blinks slowly at you and why it's a gesture you can give her in return.
Why Adopting a Free Kitten Isn't Always a Good Idea
If you're considering adopting a free kitten, learn some of the things to keep in mind, from potential health problems to socialization issues.
Are Laser Pointers Safe for Cats?
Learn if laser pointers are truly safe to use with your cat, if there are any recommended types, and when to recognize your cat's playtime frustrations.
Cat Seizures: Causes, Symptoms & What You Should Do
Learn how to spot the signs of a cat seizure, what you should do if your cat is having a seizure, and what the common causes of seizures are.
Do Cats Like to Be Petted?
Petting & picking up a cat can be tricky, but she'll give you signs to show she's ready. Learn her favorite spots to be petted and handling techniques.
Overweight Cat? Slim Down with These Activities
Learn how meal planning, exercise and activity can help your overweight cat get to a healthy and happy weight.
Cat Lumps After Spay or Neutering: Potential Hernia Concerns?
A cat hernia is usually not a cause for concern, but does require surgical correction. Learn more about how cat hernias may occur after spay or neutering.
Are Cats Good With Kids?
Are cats good with kids? Happily, the answer is yes! Use these tips to find the best cat for your family.
Why Does My Cat Yowl at Night?
Cats can be quite chatty, especially at night when their yowling can keep even heavy sleepers awake. Learn tips for how to deal with her nighttime noises.
Anemia in Cats: Causes, Treatment & Prevention
If you're concerned that your cat might be anemic, read on to learn more about what causes anemia in cats — and how to prevent it.
Can Cats Eat Rice?
Can cats eat rice? And can cats eat rice to help with digestive issues? Read on to find out if rice can have a role in your cat's meal plan!
The Meaning Behind Your Cat's Meow: 5 Distinct Cat Sounds & Noises
From a meow to a purr, learn what your your feline friend is telling you when she makes these five distinct cat sounds.
Making a DIY Cat-Proof Toilet Paper Holder
Here's a simple, cost-effective way to create a DIY cat-proof toilet paper holder cover that keeps your feline friend from destroying your TP.
Top Cat Pet Peeves: What Cats Hate
Just like humans, cats have pet peeves that drive them crazy. Learn common things your cat probably hates and how you can make her feel more comfortable.
PU Surgery in Cats: What You Need to Know
Learn important information about a perineal urethrostomy, or PU surgery in cats, including reasons the procedure & how it helps with urinary blockages.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.