It turns out that boxes are made up of the perfect material for cats to play with as well as keep them feeling safe and warm. It’s the main reason why cats and Christmas go together like socks that match your shoes. It’s just a fact of life, you can’t have one without the other! Cats love playing with all those boxes filled with wrapping paper-literally anything will do as long as it is shiny and new for them to explore however they please (and who doesn’t love an adventure). I know that our cat Mimi gets just as excited when my wife’s Amazon Prime arrives at the door.
First let’s go through all the reasons why cats love boxes.
I’ll then show you how to make a box safe for your little feline friend.
All The Reasons Why Cats Love Cardboard Boxes
It Makes Them Feel Safe
Boxes make cats feel safe and secure. They provide a sense of security with their four walls that no other creature can sneak up on them or get too close for comfort. This feeling also reminds them of when Mom was there as kittens or anything else comforting like those memories from their kitten childhood!
Warm and Cosy
Boxes can help keep cats warm. Cats’ normal body temperatures range from 100.5°F (38.1C) to 102.5°F (39.2C), so they need insulation in order for their bodies to stay at an ideal temperature while outdoors; cardboard provides just that! Even if your pet is indoors only, there will still be this instinctual need for protection which boxes satisfy on some level too – providing a sense of security from threats outside such as weather conditions or predators looking into finding prey within its hiding spots.
A New Place To Explore
Cats love exploring new places, so it’s no surprise that cats get excited when you bring something into your home. This “new” factor might also explain why they like paper and bags; each provides the chance for them to figure out if their curiosity will be satisfied by looking inside or outside of what is offered as an option.
Chewing and Scratching
Cats love boxes because they’re perfect for chewing and biting. The texture plays an important role here. Cardboard is great because cats enjoy ripping through these things without actually hurting themselves. Cat lovers also love this because cardboard boxes don’t cost any money, can be recycled afterwards too!
Perfect Place For a Nap
The cardboard boxes are the perfect place for cats to have a nap. They’re warm, cosy and they don’t just insulate from cold but also noise! The dark environment provides shelter against harsh sunlight in addition to providing peace of mind when it comes time for bedtime strolls outside. Throw in a small blanket for them and it will become their new sleeping spot. A great cat nap can rejuvenate even an exhausted feline!
They Are a Great Hiding Place
Cats are naturally drawn to cardboard boxes because they provide a great hiding spot for cats, just as their wild counterparts would. Cats love pouncing on anything that moves! And what better way is there to satisfy this predatory instinct? Cardboard makes for some really fun playtime in your home.
It’s Not Just Boxes
Paper bags are just as interesting to cats as cardboard boxes. They will often jump inside them with no warning. The paper is also the perfect consistency for them to scratch at without hurting themselves.
Make a Cardboard Box Safe for Your Cat to Play In
Cats make wonderful pets. They are loving, friendly animals that make great companions for humans. But cats can be prone to some dangers around the house if they are not supervised or allowed to explore on their own accord. One of these dangers is cardboard boxes. Cats love playing in cardboard boxes, but often times the inside of the box is exposed and it can lead to injuries like cuts and scratches from sharp corners or getting stuck between two pieces of cardboard. We will discuss how you can make your cat’s favorite plaything safe with a few quick modifications!
- Make a hole in the end of one side to make an entrance/exit for your cat – make sure the box is large enough that your cat can turn around and stand up inside without bumping his head on top
- Secure light weight pieces of cardboard over exposed corners with duct tape or hot glue. This will make it safer for cats who like to scratch at exposed bits of cardboard, which could lead to injury from sharp edges!
- Place a blanket or towel in the bottom if you want extra cushioning so that your kitty has something soft and comfortable under their paws while enjoying this new space!
- Remove any staples from the box (even staples that are not exposed). Staples are sharp and can cause serious injuries to your cat. Always inspect the whole box (specially underside of the box) to ensure there are no staples present.
*Bonus: Make a small paper ball (about the size of a marble) and throw it in the box. Your cat will go mad for it!