Written by Ivey Ingalls-Rubin, Staff Writer

All true feline enthusiasts know that no matter how many toys you may bestow on your cat, nothing could ever compare to a simple cardboard box.

Why exactly do our adorable feline friends find such attraction in boxes, bags, baskets, suitcases etc?

A cat seeks out confined spaces because of an instinctual urge. In the wild, these confined areas allow the cat to both hide from potential predators and clandestinely stalk its prey—imaginary or not.

Stephen Zawistowski, science adviser for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said cats love to hide.

“Cats like boxes because they are cryptic animals,” Zawistowski said. “And a box gives them a place of safety and security.”

Whilst dwelling inside the box, the cat feels as though they cannot be snuck up on from any side—anything that wishes to approach must come from directly in front of their field of vision. Through this, our cute kitties can effectively watch the world around them without being observed by the world.

Not to mention, these safe and cozy spots allow cats to successfully fulfil their napping obligation of 20 hours per day.

For more on debunking the fits = sits theory you can visit HERE.