Cats are known for their quirky little habits and as a pet owner you are blessed with a front row seat. Over time, you may have noticed that your furry friend has a liking for cardboard boxes. These little quirks are what makes our pets so adorable but you may question the motive behind their actions from time to time. So why exactly do cats gravitate towards cardboard boxes and why do they prefer them to those luxurious pet beds we splash out on? Read on to discover the reason behind your cat’s obsession with boxes.

Why do cats love boxes?

Cats like boxes for the same reason they like hiding in other small spaces around the house and taking refuge under the bed. A box is a small enclosed space and as a result your pet feels safe and secure here. In large open spaces, cats feel vulnerable and exposed and their instinct to find refuge and security stems from their primal need to protect themselves from predators in the wild. A box is a source of comfort for your feline friend and taking refuge in one can be a form of stress relief for your cat. Cats adore boxes not just as a safe place to hide but as a plaything too. Expect to find your cat not just hiding in a box but sitting, sleeping and playing too. Place a blanket in a box to make it a cosy sleep space or leave a feather in the bottom and watch them pounce and play.

Why do cats like cardboard boxes?

So, will any old box do? Or is cardboard the key to your cat’s heart? Cardboard boxes are a good source of insulation and there’s a high chance this is what attracts your cat. Cats like a cosy climate and this is exactly what a cardboard box offers. Many houses are on the cooler side for cats so any warm space will be high on their list of priorities. You may have found this out the hard way when you’ve splashed out on a fancy cat bed only to find your feline snuggled up asleep in the cardboard box it came in.

If your cat or kitten has an affinity with cardboard boxes, there are a few things you can do to make sure that this hiding place is safe for your pet. For example, remove any staples from the cardboard box and make sure the box isn’t lined with anything that could cause harm. Tear open any cut out handles or any holes that your cat could get their head stuck in.

Should the worst happen, and your cat gets injured playing with boxes or gets a puncture wound from a rogue staple, you’ll need pet insurance that covers you for this. Asda Money offer a range of pet insurance options for all budgets and preferences. Whatever happens, you’re in great hands. You can check out the various policies available to you here.