Share:

All cat owners have experienced the frustration of providing their pet with ample toys, only to find that they prefer hiding in random cardboard boxes laying around the house. Much like many other mysterious feline behaviors, cats' love of boxes is rooted in their instincts as predators. While this behavior is completely normal for all cats, check in with a trusted veterinarian if you believe your cat is behaving abnormally. 

3 Reasons Why You Might Find Your Cat in a Box

1. Cats Feel Safe in Boxes

Cats typically enjoy any kind of enclosed space. This is the main reason why boxes are so attractive to them; when your cat is holed up in a box, they know that they can’t be approached from behind.

Cats also know that they’re concealed from any potential “threats,” which in the home usually means another rambunctious pet or human owner. If you have a particularly skittish cat, hiding in boxes may also reduce stress.

2. Cardboard Boxes Generate Warmth

veterinarianCats love being warm, which is why they often snuggle on your lap or in bed with you. Being within an enclosed space also helps cats generate heat, especially within a box made of cardboard, which is a great conductor of heat. This also explains why more than one cat will attempt to get into the same box. 

3. Cats May Like the Texture of Cardboard

Most cats are all about textures, which is why they often bite and chew plastic and other inedible items. Many cats are attracted to cardboard because they enjoy scratching and biting the material. This often leads to a mess for pet owners, but boxes are easy to replace and provide endless fun for kitties of all ages. 

 

You love your cat like a member of the family, which is why it’s crucial to find a veterinarian who feels the same. In Columbia, MO, Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital loves every animal that comes into their clinic. While they emphasize preventative care, they also offer medical and surgical care, dental treatments, grooming, and nutritional counseling to keep your pet healthy for life. If you need a safe place for your pet while you’re away, these compassionate veterinarians also provide boarding. Call (573) 449-3791 to schedule an appointment at the Keene St. location or (573) 449-7387 for the Buttonwood Dr. clinic. Visit the website to see the full listing of services. 

tracking