You probably recognize it: you order a beautiful new scratching furniture or a silky soft basket for your cat, but as soon as the package is delivered, your four-legged friend completely ignores the gift. The cardboard box it came in? That one, on the other hand, is irresistible.
At Luxury Cat Hotel, we see cats making their own choices every day. But what is that magical attraction of a simple cardboard box anyway? The answer lies deeper in the cat’s nature than you might think.
1. A secure fortress against stress
Cats are solitary hunters by nature, but they are also prey animals. In a box, they feel protected on three (or four) sides. It gives them a safe vantage point from which they can observe their surroundings without being seen themselves.
In fact, research from Utrecht University has shown that cats in a shelter environment recover much faster from stress when given a cardboard box to shelter in. It significantly lowers their cortisol levels.
2. The perfect insulation
Did you know that the average house cat prefers to stay in an environment of around 30°C to 36°C? That’s a lot warmer than our average living room.
Cardboard is a fantastic insulator. In a cramped box, a cat can retain its own body heat, making it the ideal place for a deep, restorative sleep.
3. A safe place for a nap
Because cats in the wild are vulnerable when they sleep, they instinctively seek a place that seals them off from the outside world. A box acts as a “safe zone. In our cat hotel, we mimic this sense of security by offering quiet, screened sleeping areas where each guest can fully withdraw.
4. Texture and odor
Cardboard has a texture that is great for scratching or biting. It helps cats leave their scent behind through the glands in their paws. In addition, the material is soft enough to sink their teeth into, which is simply a form of play and relaxation for many cats.
Tips for home:
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Leave that box for a while: Even if it doesn’t match your decor, your cat will thank you for a few days of playtime.
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Make it luxurious: Place a soft blanket in the box to take comfort to the next level.
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Safety First: Remove plastic tape, staples or sharp edges before giving the box to your cat.
While cardboard boxes make great toys, we at Luxury Cat Hotel naturally provide an environment that is even more comfortable. From heated spots to personal attention, we combine the security a cat seeks with the luxury it deserves.
