Why Do Cats Sit In Boxes Instead Of Soft Beds Meant For Them

Cats have a reputation for being enigmatic creatures—affectionate one moment, aloof the next. One of their most endearing quirks is their undeniable attraction to cardboard boxes. No matter how much money you spend on plush, orthopedic pet beds lined with memory foam and faux fur, your cat will often bypass it entirely in favor of an empty shipping container. This isn’t random or whimsical behavior. Behind this preference lies a complex interplay of instinct, thermoregulation, stress reduction, and environmental control. Understanding why cats choose boxes over designer beds offers insight into their psychology and helps owners create better living spaces for their feline companions.

The Instinctual Need for Enclosed Spaces

Cats are natural predators, but they are also prey animals in the wild. Their evolutionary history as both hunter and hunted has shaped their need for secure, enclosed environments. In the wild, small shelters such as hollow logs, rock crevices, or dense underbrush provide protection from larger predators and harsh weather. A cardboard box mimics these natural hiding spots by offering walls on all sides, a single entry point, and overhead cover—all features that trigger a cat’s innate sense of safety.

Enclosed spaces reduce exposure and allow cats to observe their surroundings while remaining hidden. This vantage point gives them control over their environment, which is critical for an animal that relies heavily on vigilance. Even domesticated cats retain these survival instincts. When a cat climbs into a box, it’s not just lounging—it’s claiming a defensible territory where it can relax without feeling vulnerable.

Tip: If your cat ignores its bed, try placing a covered crate or shallow box nearby—it may feel more secure than an open sleeping surface.

Thermal Comfort: Why Boxes Are Warmer Than Beds

Despite their fluffy coats, cats prefer warmer ambient temperatures than humans do. The ideal temperature range for a cat is between 86°F and 97°F (30°C–36°C), significantly higher than typical room temperature in most homes. Cardboard is a natural insulator, trapping body heat and creating a cozy microclimate inside the box. Once a cat curls up inside, the confined space prevents heat from escaping, making even a thin-walled box more thermally efficient than many open pet beds.

In contrast, some commercially available cat beds, especially those made with synthetic materials or open designs, may not retain heat effectively. Elevated or mesh-style beds, while breathable, offer little insulation. This makes them less appealing when a cat is seeking warmth—particularly during colder months or in air-conditioned environments.

A study conducted at Utrecht University in the Netherlands found that shelter cats given access to cardboard boxes exhibited lower stress levels than those without. Researchers noted that the boxes acted as thermal buffers and psychological sanctuaries, reinforcing the idea that physical comfort and emotional well-being are closely linked in feline behavior.

“Cats seek out micro-environments where they can regulate both temperature and perceived safety. A simple box often fulfills both needs better than engineered solutions.” — Dr. Sarah Ellis, Feline Behavior Scientist, University of Lincoln

Stress Reduction and Environmental Control

Modern homes, despite being safe, can be overwhelming for cats. Constant movement, loud noises, unfamiliar visitors, or other pets create sensory overload. Boxes act as retreats—a place to disengage and recover. This is especially important in multi-pet households or high-traffic areas.

When cats feel stressed, they often seek out tight, dark spaces. The snug fit of a box provides gentle pressure against their bodies, which can have a calming effect similar to swaddling in infants. This tactile feedback reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation.

Moreover, owning a box gives a cat a sense of agency. Unlike a bed placed in the middle of a room, a box can be claimed, scratched, kneaded, and marked with scent glands located on the paws and face. This territorial behavior reinforces ownership and contributes to emotional stability.

Real Example: Shelter Cat Adaptation

In a real-world case at a no-kill shelter in Portland, Oregon, staff noticed new arrivals were hesitant to interact and spent most of their time crouched at the back of their enclosures. After introducing plain cardboard boxes into each cage, behavioral changes were observed within 48 hours. Cats began exploring more, eating regularly, and showing signs of socialization. One particularly anxious tabby, rescued from a hoarding situation, remained motionless for two days until a box was added. Within hours, she entered it, settled in, and eventually emerged to accept treats. Staff credited the box not just with reducing stress, but accelerating the acclimation process.

Design Flaws in Commercial Cat Beds

While marketed as “luxury” or “ergonomic,” many commercial cat beds fail to meet core feline needs. Manufacturers often prioritize aesthetics over function, designing products that appeal to human sensibilities rather than cat instincts.

Common issues include:

• Open design: Leaves cats exposed and unable to monitor their surroundings safely.
• Unstable materials: Beds that shift or collapse when entered can startle sensitive cats.
• Strong odors: New fabrics or adhesives emit scents that deter cats with acute olfactory senses.
• Incorrect size: Too large, and the bed lacks coziness; too small, and it restricts movement.
• Poor washability: Accumulated odors from sweat, dander, or litter discourage repeated use.

Compare this to a cardboard box: odor-neutral, structurally predictable, easy to replace, and perfectly sized for curling. It requires no assembly, emits no chemicals, and allows full visibility from within. From a cat’s perspective, it checks every box—literally.

Feature	Cardboard Box	Typical Commercial Cat Bed
Enclosure Level	High (walls + top coverage)	Low to moderate (open-top)
Thermal Retention	Excellent (insulating material)	Variable (often poor)
Scent Neutrality	Natural, non-irritating	May contain chemical residues
Durability Perception	Temporary, low-stakes	Permanent, high-expectation
User Control	Scratchable, markable, disposable	Rigid, clean-only

How to Make Cat Beds More Appealing: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’d like your cat to use a proper bed instead of repurposing delivery packaging, consider modifying the environment and product selection. Here’s a practical timeline to increase bed acceptance:

1. Week 1: Assess Current Preferences
   Observe where your cat currently likes to rest. Is it under the bed? Inside a closet? On a windowsill? Note whether the spot is elevated, enclosed, warm, or near activity.
2. Week 2: Choose the Right Bed Type
   Select a bed that matches observed preferences. For cats who like boxes, opt for a covered cave-style bed with a soft interior and side entrance. Avoid overly plush or flat models.
3. Week 3: Strategic Placement
   Place the new bed in a quiet corner, near a heat source (like a radiator or sunny floor), or beside your favorite chair—areas already associated with comfort.
4. Week 4: Scent Transfer and Familiarity
   Rub the inside of the bed with a cloth used to wipe your cat’s face or paws. Add a worn T-shirt with your scent. Avoid strong detergents.
5. Ongoing: Positive Reinforcement
   Reward your cat with treats or praise when it investigates or uses the bed. Never force interaction.

Tip: Place the bed inside a slightly larger box initially—this combines novelty with familiarity and eases the transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all cats like boxes?

Most cats show interest in boxes, but individual personalities vary. Shy or anxious cats are more likely to seek them out, while bold or confident cats may use them occasionally for play or observation. Age and health also influence preference—older cats may avoid boxes if jumping in becomes difficult.

Is it safe for cats to chew on cardboard?

Small amounts of incidental chewing are generally harmless, but ingesting large pieces can cause gastrointestinal blockages. Monitor your cat—if it frequently eats cardboard, consult a veterinarian. This could indicate pica, a condition linked to nutritional deficiencies or compulsive behavior.

Why does my cat scratch the box before lying down?

Scratching serves multiple purposes: it marks the surface with scent from paw glands, adjusts the texture for comfort, and may mimic nest-building behavior. It’s a sign of approval, not rejection.

Actionable Checklist for Cat Owners

• ✅ Provide at least one enclosed space per cat (box, tunnel, or covered bed)
• ✅ Position resting spots away from foot traffic and loud appliances
• ✅ Rotate boxes weekly to maintain novelty and hygiene
• ✅ Avoid scented cleaners near sleeping areas
• ✅ Introduce new beds gradually using familiar scents
• ✅ Monitor for signs of stress (hiding, reduced appetite) and adjust environment accordingly

Conclusion: Respecting Feline Psychology

The enduring appeal of the cardboard box isn’t a mystery once you understand the cat’s perspective. To humans, a soft bed represents luxury and care. To a cat, a box represents safety, warmth, and control—three essentials that outweigh cushion thickness or fabric quality. Rather than viewing this behavior as quirky or inconvenient, it should be seen as a window into your cat’s inner world.

Instead of frustration, embrace the box. Let it inform how you design your home for your cat’s true needs. Whether you incorporate more hideaways, modify existing beds, or simply leave a few boxes out for fun, aligning your choices with feline instincts leads to happier, healthier pets. After all, contentment for a cat isn’t measured in thread count—it’s measured in security.

💬 What does your cat prefer—a plush bed, a sunlit floor, or a humble box? Share your observations and tips with fellow cat lovers in the comments!