If you’ve ever brought home a new item and left the cardboard box on the floor, chances are your cat climbed right in and made it their new nap spot.
It’s a common behavior, but many cat owners still wonder: Why do cats like sleeping in cardboard boxes? This curious habit is more than just a quirky preference; it’s deeply rooted in feline instincts and behavior.
Cats are mysterious animals. One moment they’re running around the house, the next they’re curled up in a plain cardboard box. Even the fanciest, softest pet beds often get ignored in favor of these simple containers.
According to the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, there are several reasons for this behavior, and they all make a lot of sense when you think about it from a cat’s point of view.
1. Boxes Offer a Sense of Safety and Security
Cardboard boxes create a small, enclosed space. Cats naturally seek out hiding spots where they feel secure from potential threats.
A box provides four walls, and often only one opening. That gives your cat the ability to observe the room without being seen or disturbed.
This makes boxes feel like a haven where they can relax without worrying about sudden movements or loud noises.
When cats are in a box, they can easily retreat from overstimulation or people they’re not comfortable with. It’s a way for them to control their environment and have a little space of their own.
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2. The Perfect Place for Warmth
Cats love warmth. Their body temperature runs a little higher than humans’, so they often look for warm spots to curl up in.
Cardboard is a great insulator, which means it helps trap the heat from your cat’s body and keeps the space cozy.
Combine that with a soft blanket inside the box, and your cat has found a warm, quiet spot to sleep for hours.
This might explain why do cats like sleeping in cardboard boxes even during summer. It’s not always about escaping the cold, it’s about having a consistent, warm environment that helps them feel comfortable and safe.
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3. Boxes Reduce Stress
Studies have shown that cats who have access to boxes show lower stress levels, especially in new environments.
For example, in animal shelters, giving cats a cardboard box to hide in helps them adjust faster. The enclosed space limits exposure to overwhelming sights and sounds, which can help calm your cat’s nervous system.
If your cat is anxious or adjusting to a change, like a move or a new pet, offering them a box can help them cope more easily. The box becomes a familiar and controlled environment in the middle of chaos.
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4. Boxes Feed Their Curiosity
Cats are natural explorers. A new box means a new territory to investigate. They’ll sniff it, paw at it, climb inside, and maybe even chew on it.
It satisfies their need to explore, hide, and even scratch. The texture of cardboard also feels good on their paws and claws.
When you ask yourself again why do cats like sleeping in cardboard boxes, think of it this way—cats love to combine comfort with curiosity.
Once the exploration is over, they realize the box also makes a perfect bed. It’s like a playground and a bedroom rolled into one.
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5. Boxes Mimic Hunting Behavior
In the wild, cats hunt by hiding and waiting for prey. A cardboard box allows a cat to practice its natural hunting style.
Even though indoor cats don’t need to hunt for survival, the instinct remains strong. Sitting inside a box allows them to peek out and pounce on toys or even your feet as you walk by.
Sleeping in the box helps them stay in “hunting mode,” especially if they like to spring out and surprise you or other pets. It’s not just a comfy space; it’s also a great spot for sneaky attacks.
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6. The Smell and Texture Are Appealing
Cardboard has a natural, woody smell that many cats find comforting. It’s not overpowering, and it absorbs their scent quickly.
That makes the box feel more like “theirs” over time. The rough surface also makes it a fun object to bite, scratch, or knead with their paws.
So why do cats like sleeping in cardboard boxes so much? It’s partly because of how they feel physically in the box and partly because of how it smells and responds to their natural behaviors.
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A Word from GetMe Treated
So, why do cats like sleeping in cardboard boxes? The answer lies in their instincts. Boxes offer safety, warmth, privacy, and a little bit of fun.
They help reduce stress, provide a place to nap, and satisfy a cat’s curiosity and desire to hide. Even though cardboard seems simple to us, to a cat, it’s the perfect combination of comfort and play.
Next time you get a package, don’t throw the box away, leave it on the floor, and see what happens. Chances are, your cat will find it before you can even pick up the packing slip.
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FAQs About Why Do Cats Like Sleeping in Cardboard Boxes
Are cardboard boxes safe for cats?
Yes, remove staples and tape. Avoid boxes with chemical or food residue.
How can I make a box more comfortable for my cat?
Add a soft towel or blanket and place it in a quiet spot.
Why does my cat prefer boxes over beds?
Boxes feel safer and warmer, and cats like the enclosed space more than fancy materials.
When should I replace the box?
Replace it when it gets dirty or worn out. A fresh box can renew interest.
Are there box alternatives?
Covered cat beds or soft pet cubes work too, but cats love the simplicity of cardboard.
Do all cats like boxes?
Most do, but not every cat. Some prefer open or high places instead.