Cats' penchant for squeezing into confined spaces like boxes is a well-established quirk. But why do our furry companions have this inclination?

According to Gabriella Smith, a PhD student specializing in animal cognition at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, it is a basic instinct derived from seeking comfort.

Understanding Feline Behavior

Cats have a well-known penchant for squeezing themselves into boxes and tight spaces. This behavior is deeply rooted in their instinctual need for comfort, according to Gabriella Smith, a doctoral candidate specializing in comparative animal cognition at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna. From an evolutionary perspective, the feeling of pressure on their sides provides a sense of security for cats.

Comfort in Stressful Situations

The significance of this comfort is particularly evident in stressful circumstances, such as when a stray cat is taken in for the first time. A 2019 study in PLOS One by Dutch researchers highlighted the crucial role of hiding in reducing stress levels among cats entering animal shelters.

Using a non-invasive method called the Cat-Stress-Score, which evaluates feline stress based on posture, vocalizations, and activity, the scientists observed that deprived of shelter, cats would seek refuge under overturned litter boxes.

Exploration of Feline Behavior

The love of cats for confined spaces goes beyond physical boxes. In a 2021 citizen science initiative led by Smith and published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, cats were investigated for their tendency to sit inside a Kanizsa contour — a two-dimensional rectangle outlined by taped corners.

This experiment delves into cats' visual cognition and how they perceive boundaries, revealing that their affection for boxes extends to even 2D structures.

The Adaptive Value of Box Behavior

The inclination of cats towards enclosed spaces can be associated with their survival instincts. By seeking refuge in boxes, cats may evade potential dangers and threats in their environment. This behavior may be traced back to their roots as ambush predators, where concealing their presence before a pounce proves advantageous.

From House Cats to Big Cats

The fascination with confined spaces is not limited to domestic cats. Observations in zoos have shown that larger felines like pumas, lions, and tigers also exhibit a similar affinity for boxes of various sizes. This shared behavior across different cat species underscores the universal appeal that enclosed spaces hold for these animals.