Why Cats Love Small Spaces

Why Do Cats Love to Hide in Small, Enclosed Spaces?

As any cat companion knows, cats love small spaces. Whether its inside boxes, under beds, curled up in closet corners or sitting in your laundry basket, cats love small cozy spots.

But why do cats seek out these small spaces? The answer lies in a combination of instinct, security and comfort.

1. The Instinctual Need for Safety and Security

Cats, whether domesticated or wild, are natural predators—but they are also prey. In the wild, small, enclosed areas provide a crucial advantage. These spaces allow cats to observe their surroundings without being seen, protecting them from potential threats. This survival instinct is deeply ingrained in even the most pampered house cat.

By hiding in a small, enclosed space, a cat can feel like it is shielded from potential dangers, reducing stress and anxiety.

For this reason, you might notice your cat seeking out hiding spots when they feel scared or overwhelmed. During thunderstorms, fireworks, or visits from unfamiliar guests, your cat may vanish into a closet or under a couch. This behavior is a direct response to their instinct to stay safe when they feel threatened.

2. Small Spaces Offer a Sense of Comfort

Enclosed spaces provide a sense of comfort that cats find irresistible. Carboard boxes or cat houses, in particular, offer a warm, confined space that helps retain body heat, making them cozy retreats.

In the wild, felines often seek out dens or burrows where they can stay warm and feel protected from predators. Domesticated cats still retain this preference, which is why you may find your cat curled up in an empty box rather than a spacious, open area.

Beyond warmth, these small spaces also help reduce sensory overload. The world can be a busy, chaotic place, especially in a household with children, other pets, or loud noises. A hidden spot allows cats to have a personal retreat where they can relax without being disturbed.

3. Hiding is a Stress Reliever for Cats

Cats are independent creatures that often prefer to be left alone, especially when they are stressed. If you’ve recently moved, introduced a new pet, or changed your routine, you may find your cat hiding more than usual. This behavior isn’t just about avoiding interaction - it’s a way for them to cope with stress.

A study from the University of Utrecht found that shelter cats provided with hiding boxes adjusted more quickly to their new environment compared to those without hiding spaces. This suggests that having a place to retreat to, such as our Furry Masterpieces Cardboard Cat House with Scratcher, when overwhelmed significantly reduces feline stress levels.

If your cat is hiding more often, it may be their way of dealing with anxiety, and offering them a cozy box or private space can be a great way to help them feel more at ease.

4. Small Spaces Help Cats Feel in Control

Cats love to be in control of their surroundings. When they find a small space to hide in, they create a personal territory where they can relax without interference.

Unlike large open areas where they might feel exposed, enclosed spaces give them a sense of ownership and dominance over their environment.

You might notice that your cat prefers to squeeze into small spots even when there’s plenty of open space available. This is because they enjoy feeling secure and knowing that nothing can sneak up on them from behind.

Whether it’s a drawer left open or a cozy cat tunnel, your feline friend will gravitate towards spaces where they feel in charge.

Cat Box Classics Cardboard Cat Houses are designed specifically to get your cat that sense of control, while also offering enough openings that the can feel like they are keeping an eye on their surrounds.

5. Boxes Provide an Element of Playfulness

Hiding in carboard boxes isn’t just about safety - it’s also fun! Cats are naturally curious, and enclosed spaces provide the perfect environment for play.

A box can become a hiding spot, a hunting ground, or a place to launch surprise attacks. If you’ve ever seen your cat crouched in a box, waiting to pounce on an unsuspecting toy (or your feet), you know just how much they enjoy the thrill of the hunt.

In the wild, felines use dense brush and burrows to stalk prey without being seen. At home, a cardboard cat house can replicate this hunting scenario, giving your cat the opportunity to practice their natural instincts in a safe environment.

6. Cats Hide When They Are Not Feeling Well

While hiding is a natural and healthy behavior, excessive hiding can sometimes indicate illness. Cats instinctively conceal signs of weakness, which means they might retreat to an enclosed space when they are not feeling well. If your cat suddenly starts hiding more than usual and also exhibits other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior, it’s a good idea to schedule a vet visit.

7. Hiding Helps Cats Sleep Peacefully

Cats sleep an average of 12-16 hours a day, and they prefer to do so in places where they feel completely safe. A small, enclosed space provides a sense of protection, allowing them to sleep undisturbed. This is why many cats love napping in their cat houses, under a bed rather than out in the open.

This behavior is linked to their natural instinct to find the best sleeping spot based on temperature and safety.

8. How to Create Safe Hiding Spots for Your Cat

If your cat loves to hide, providing designated spaces can make them feel more comfortable and reduce stress. Here are some ideas:

• Cardboard Cat Houses: Our Cat houses are designed specifically to both enhance your cat’s natural instincts and look beautiful in your home.
• Cat caves or covered beds: These mimic the feel of a den and provide warmth.
• Cat trees with enclosed cubbies: Multi-functional spaces where they can hide, climb, and observe their surroundings.
• Closets or under-bed access: If safe, allowing your cat to hide in a closet or under the bed can give them a retreat when they need personal space.
• Blanket forts: Draping a blanket over a chair can create a temporary hideout your cat will love.

Conclusion

Cats’ love for hiding in small, enclosed spaces is deeply rooted in their instincts. These spots provide security, comfort, stress relief, and a place to play or sleep without feeling exposed. Whether they’re retreating from stress, enjoying a game, or just looking for a cozy nap spot, hiding is a completely natural and beneficial behavior for felines.

As a cat owner, you can embrace this behavior by providing your pet with safe, enclosed spaces to explore and relax in. Giving your cat a place to hide will make them feel more secure and happy in their home.

If your cat loves small spaces, why not give them a cozy retreat designed just for them?

Check our exclusive line of eco-friendly cardboard cat houses crafted with sustainable materials.

These enclosed hideaways provide the security cats crave while featuring thoughtfully placed openings for play and observation. Whether your feline prefers to curl up in a snug nook or keep an eye on their kingdom, these stylish and durable cat houses offer the perfect blend of comfort and entertainment.

Give your cat a space they’ll love.