Why do cats love boxes and bags?

If you want to get your cat’s attention, place a box or bag in the middle of a room or hallway. In a minute, you will find a satisfied muzzle peeking out from there. Cats and cats, like their wild relatives, are hunters. They like to ambush, and the box is the most convenient place where no one sees them. Let’s figure out why our pets love boxes and bags of various sizes so much.

How experts explain cats’ love for boxes and rustling things

If outdoors cats always have grass, bushes and trees to hide, then indoors they are limited in movement. A box house for a cat is also an excellent hiding place where no one sees her. The reaction to the box or package is dictated by wild feline instincts. If something rustles or has a certain smell, then it is prey or a game. 

Experts say cats have a natural craving for hiding places. Fearful and anxious cats feel the need to hide away from prying eyes. The box represents a safe enclosed space for them. Active and inquisitive pets, on the contrary, want to explore everything around, play with bags or climb into various boxes.

The rustling package causes a storm of emotions in them: it moves like a mouse in a hole, rolls, sticks to the fur and looks like an attacking enemy. However, it does not cause pain. Cats are ready to “fight” with such a toy, freely using claws and teeth. The hanging bag is no less interesting: you can climb inside and use it as a hammock. 

If a cat climbs into a bag or box, then by doing this she tries to attract the attention of the owner and play with him. Or she just wants to relax and chooses a secluded place to sleep.

Can these habits be dangerous for a pet?

Unfortunately, the package is not always a safe toy. It is not uncommon for a cat to lick, chew, or even eat a rustling plastic bag. Scientists suggest that this may be the following reasons:

• improper diet;
• problems with the oral cavity and / or digestion;
• early weaning of a kitten from a cat; 
• stress;
• I like the taste of fats and gelatin in polyethylene;
• attractive smooth texture;
• the smell of something delicious that used to be in the bag.

The habit of chewing bags can be dangerous for a pet. If he gnaws on a plastic bag and accidentally swallows a piece, this is fraught with suffocation or intestinal obstruction. Therefore, it is important not to throw bags anywhere and not to let the cat get them out of the bin.

What to do if the cat ate the package?

If suddenly the cat swallowed the cellophane, wait a bit, do not give antiemetics or laxatives. In the absence of symptoms of suffocation, the animal will attempt to induce vomiting on its own. If this does not happen or the cellophane sticks out of the mouth, do not try to pull it out yourself – it is better to immediately take your pet to the veterinarian. If the cat is interested in a plastic or plastic bag, you need to distract her attention with other safe items: a laser pointer, a ball, a feather stick, or just a treat.