The riddle of the cats and the boxes
You’ve probably noticed that our feline friends have an undisputed passion for cardboard boxes. This attraction seems to cross all boundaries, affecting cats of all breeds, ages and temperaments. Towards a better understanding of this phenomenon, we will delve into the behavioral universe of these mysterious creatures to elucidate the reasons for their love for cardboard.
The safe refuge
A confined space is reassuring for cats, because it offers them a place where they feel protected and safe from potential predators, even in a domestic environment. The cardboard box represents the ideal place to keep watch without being seen, a strategy specific to their distant wild ancestors.
Thermoregulation
Heat preservation is essential for cats. Cardboard has exceptional insulating properties, allowing cats to maintain their optimal body temperature. In the tranquility of a box, a cat preserves its heat more easily, thus saving energy.
Texture and material
The texture of the cardboard is attractive, it stimulates the scratching instinct of cats, essential for marking their territory and maintaining their claws. The sound and sensation that the material provides when scratched seems to provide particular satisfaction to felines.
The hunter’s instinct
Discretion is fundamental in the hunting behavior of cats. Since their ancestors, this ability to remain hidden before pouncing on prey has remained intact. A cardboard box can serve well as a hunting hideout, where they can wait patiently for the opportunity to “capture” a toy or even your feet passing nearby.
A question of personality
Each cat is unique, and their attraction to boxes may also be influenced by their personality. Some may seek refuge from a stressful environment or too much activity in the home. Others simply see the box as a new object to explore.
Behavioral benefits
Interaction with boxes can be therapeutic. It allows cats to relax, reduce anxiety and provide a sense of control over their environment. This is why we often notice a more serene and peaceful cat after spending time in its favorite cardboard box.
The importance of exploration
Curiosity is an innate characteristic of cats, and the exploration of new spaces stimulates their intellect and maintains their psychological well-being. A cardboard box is an invitation to adventure, where every corner reveals new sensations and smells.
health and wellbeing
Stress can affect cat health, also access to cardboard boxes can contribute positively to their balance. The safety and comfort provided can even reduce the likelihood of developing certain anxiety-related pathologies.
An adaptation to the lifestyle
In the wild, cats have access to various hiding places; however, in a human environment, their possibilities are often restricted. Cardboard boxes offer an alternative that fits easily into the domestic living space, transforming into beds, hiding places or play areas.
Human-feline interaction
Observing cats with boxes can strengthen the bond between the animal and its owner. Understanding and respecting this natural attraction means creating a harmonious and stimulating environment for the feline. Having fun with your cat around a cardboard box can become a moment of sharing and complicity.
Boxes as educational tools
To educate or train your cat, cardboard boxes can prove to be allies. They can be used to channel destructive behavior, serve as a training tool to encourage them to use certain areas for scratching or to help them adapt to new environments.
Let your imagination speak
Encouraging your cat’s development can be achieved by creating spaces and games involving cardboard boxes. Assembling cardboard tunnels, towers or mazes can provide your companion with hours of fun and real mental stimulation.
No need to look for a formal epilogue to this interest of cats in cardboard boxes; the subject is as vast as it is fascinating. The different behavioral reasons mentioned are all avenues for understanding this behavior. Observing and responding to the natural needs of our feline friends means guaranteeing them balance and fulfillment within our homes.
