Cats have a well-known and almost universal affinity for boxes, and there are several reasons why they love them so much.
They can sleep, hide, or just sit in boxes, regardless of their size, without paying any attention to their cat beds or houses.
Let's find out, why.
Boxes provide a confined and enclosed space, which makes cats feel secure and safe. In the wild, small, enclosed spaces offer protection from predators, and this instinct carries over to domestic cats.
Boxes often retain heat, making them cozy spots for cats to curl up in.
The cardboard material of many boxes also provides insulation, keeping the cat warm.
Cats have scent glands on their cheeks and paws, and rubbing against the sides of a box leaves their scent, marking it as their territory and creating a familiar and reassuring environment.
Cats are naturally curious creatures, and boxes provide them with opportunities to explore and investigate new spaces.
The enclosed environment also allows them to feel in control of their surroundings.
Cats, as light sleepers, appreciate the privacy and protection a box offers, shielding them from disturbances and providing a safe place for uninterrupted naps.
Empty boxes can become fun toys for cats. They may jump in and out, paw at the sides, or even turn it into a makeshift fort during playtime.