Why Does My Cat Sit In Cardboard Boxes Even When Bigger Ones Exist

Cats have long fascinated humans with their mysterious behaviors, and one of the most endearing—and puzzling—is their obsession with cardboard boxes. Walk into any home with a cat, and you’re likely to find one curled up inside a shipping box barely large enough to fit them, while a spacious pet bed or an open room lies just feet away. Even more curious: they often choose smaller boxes over larger ones, sometimes squeezing themselves into spaces that seem physically improbable. So why do cats exhibit this behavior? The answer lies in a blend of evolutionary biology, environmental psychology, and sensory preference—all of which shape how domestic cats interact with their surroundings.

The Evolutionary Need for Enclosed Spaces

In the wild, cats are both predators and prey. While adult cats may hunt small animals, they are also vulnerable to larger predators such as birds of prey, coyotes, and even dogs. This dual role has shaped their instinct to seek out sheltered, enclosed environments where they can observe their surroundings without being seen. A cardboard box, no matter how humble, mimics the natural dens or hollows that wild felines would use for resting, hiding, or giving birth.

Enclosed spaces offer protection from perceived threats. Even indoor cats retain these ancestral instincts. Though they face no real danger in a modern home, sudden noises—like a vacuum cleaner or doorbell—can trigger a flight response. A box provides a quick retreat, reducing stress by offering a sense of control over their environment.

“Cats are hardwired to seek out confined spaces because it gives them a tactical advantage—protection from behind and a clear view of the front.” — Dr. Sarah Thompson, Feline Behavior Specialist, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

This instinct doesn’t diminish with domestication. In fact, studies show that shelter cats given access to hiding boxes adjust to new environments faster and display lower cortisol levels than those without shelters. The same principle applies at home: a box isn't just a toy—it's a psychological anchor.

Thermal Regulation and Comfort

Cardboard is an excellent insulator. Its fibrous structure traps air, creating a microclimate that retains body heat. Cats have a higher thermoneutral zone (the temperature range in which they don’t need to expend energy to regulate body heat) than humans—between 86°F and 97°F (30°C–36°C). Most homes are kept around 68°F–72°F, which means cats are often slightly cold, especially short-haired breeds.

A cardboard box acts like a cozy thermal cocoon. When a cat curls up inside, their body heat warms the interior, and the cardboard slows heat loss. This effect is amplified when the box is small—the tighter the space, the less air needs to be warmed, making even a cramped box more comfortable than a large, drafty enclosure.

Tip: Place a soft blanket inside the box to enhance warmth and comfort, especially during colder months.

Interestingly, kittens raised in litters huddle together for warmth, reinforcing the preference for tight, contact-rich spaces. Adult cats may replicate this behavior even when alone, seeking out compact areas that simulate the feeling of being nestled among siblings.

Predatory Instincts and Stalking Behavior

Beyond safety and warmth, cardboard boxes serve another purpose: ambush points. Cats are ambush predators by nature. They rely on stealth and surprise rather than endurance chases. A box with an opening offers the perfect vantage point—a concealed hideout from which they can watch household activity, track movement, and pounce on unsuspecting toys (or toes).

Even if the cat never attacks, the mental stimulation of observing from a hidden position satisfies their predatory drive. This is particularly important for indoor cats, who lack opportunities for natural hunting. Without outlets for this behavior, cats may develop stress-related issues such as overgrooming or aggression.

The size of the box enhances this experience. A smaller box forces the cat into a crouched, low-to-the-ground posture—ideal for launching a surprise attack. Larger enclosures, while more spacious, don’t provide the same sense of concealment or readiness.

Stress Reduction and Environmental Control

Cats thrive on predictability. Changes in routine, new people, or unfamiliar sounds can elevate anxiety. A cardboard box serves as a personal sanctuary—a place where the cat can regain a sense of control. This is especially evident in multi-cat households, where social hierarchies create tension.

When presented with multiple boxes of different sizes, cats often choose the one that allows them to press against all sides. This physical contact provides proprioceptive feedback—sensory information about body position—that increases feelings of security. It’s similar to how swaddling calms human infants.

Box Size	Observed Cat Behavior	Psychological Benefit
Small (just fits body)	Curled tightly, minimal movement	High sense of security, reduced stress
Medium (room to stretch)	Relaxed but alert, frequent repositioning	Moderate comfort, partial concealment
Large (excess space)	Restless, often exits quickly	Limited security, feels exposed

The data suggests that spatial efficiency matters more than physical comfort. A box that hugs the cat’s body offers greater psychological reassurance than one that allows full mobility but leaves them feeling exposed.

Novelty and Scent Marking

Cats are highly sensitive to scent. Cardboard is porous and absorbs odors, including the cat’s own pheromones. When a cat scratches, rubs, or simply sits in a box, they deposit facial and paw gland secretions that mark the space as “safe” and “familiar.” This process, called bunting, helps reduce anxiety by transforming a neutral object into part of their territory.

New boxes carry the scent of paper, glue, and sometimes packaging materials—all novel stimuli that attract a cat’s curiosity. Once investigated, the box becomes a personalized space. Interestingly, many cats will abandon a box after a few days, only to return to it later once the scent profile has stabilized.

This novelty cycle explains why cats may ignore a permanent cat cave but obsess over a fresh Amazon delivery box. The impermanence of cardboard adds to its appeal—it’s temporary, replaceable, and always new.

Tip: Rotate boxes every few days to maintain novelty and encourage continued use as a stress-relief tool.

Mini Case Study: Luna and the Shipping Box

Luna, a 3-year-old domestic shorthair, lived in a bustling two-story home with two children and a dog. Her owners noticed she frequently hid under beds or retreated to closets, especially during family gatherings. After reading about feline stress reduction, they placed several cardboard boxes in quiet corners of the house—some large, some small.

To their surprise, Luna consistently chose the smallest box—the one originally used to ship a coffee maker—even though a plush cat tree and a soft igloo bed were nearby. Over two weeks, her owners observed her behavior using a pet camera. They found that she used the box primarily during high-activity periods: mornings before school, evenings during dinner prep, and weekends when guests visited.

After a month, they replaced the original box with an identical new one. Luna sniffed it, scratched the side, and settled in within minutes. The old box, now scent-marked and worn, was ignored. This case illustrates how both size and novelty play critical roles in a cat’s choice of resting place.

Practical Tips for Cat Owners

Understanding your cat’s attraction to small boxes isn’t just fascinating—it’s useful. You can leverage this behavior to improve their well-being, especially during stressful transitions like moving, introducing a new pet, or visiting the vet.

1. Use boxes during travel: Place a familiar cardboard box in the carrier to reduce anxiety during car rides.
2. Create safe zones: Position small boxes in quiet areas to give your cat accessible retreats.
3. Rotate boxes regularly: Introduce new boxes weekly to maintain interest and prevent boredom.
4. Enhance comfort: Line boxes with soft towels or heated pads (low setting) for older or arthritic cats.
5. Avoid forced interaction: Never pull a cat out of a box—they’ll emerge when ready.

Checklist: Creating the Ideal Cat-Friendly Box Environment

• ☐ Choose sturdy, clean cardboard boxes with at least one open side
• ☐ Ensure the interior fits the cat snugly—no more than 1.5 times their body length
• ☐ Place boxes in low-traffic, quiet areas of the home
• ☐ Add a soft liner or blanket for extra comfort
• ☐ Allow your cat to claim the box without interference
• ☐ Replace or rotate boxes every 1–2 weeks
• ☐ Monitor usage patterns to identify preferred locations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe for my cat to chew on cardboard?

Occasional nibbling is generally harmless, but monitor for excessive consumption. Large pieces can cause intestinal blockages. If your cat frequently eats non-food items, consult a veterinarian—this could indicate pica, a condition linked to nutritional deficiencies or stress.

Why does my cat scratch the box before sitting down?

Scratching serves multiple purposes: it sharpens claws, stretches muscles, and deposits scent from glands in the paws. This behavior marks the box as part of their territory and prepares the surface for resting.

Should I buy commercial cat caves instead of using boxes?

Commercial products can be useful, but many cats still prefer cardboard. Some cat caves are too large or made of synthetic materials that don’t retain heat well. Try offering both and observe your cat’s preference.

Conclusion: Embrace the Box

The sight of a cat wedged into a tiny cardboard box may seem comical, but it reflects deep-seated instincts related to safety, comfort, and control. Far from a random quirk, this behavior is a window into the feline mind—one that values enclosure over expanse, warmth over space, and familiarity over luxury.

Instead of questioning why your cat ignores the expensive cat bed in favor of a delivery box, consider honoring their instincts. Provide multiple small, secure spaces throughout your home. Respect their need for privacy. And remember: when your cat chooses a cramped cardboard corner over a sprawling living room, they aren’t being stubborn—they’re being perfectly, wonderfully cat.

💬 Have a story about your cat’s favorite box? Share your experience in the comments—your insight might help other cat owners understand their furry companions better.