Cats are drawn to boxes due to Thigmotaxis—an evolutionary instinct to seek physical contact with enclosed spaces for protection. In this episode, we break down a landmark study by the University of Utrecht, which proved that providing hiding boxes to shelter cats significantly reduces their Cortisol (stress) levels.
 
We cover:

• The "Safety" Signal: How feeling walls against their fur tells the brain "nothing can sneak up on me."
• Thermoregulation: Why cardboard is the perfect insulator for their high body temperature.
• Enrichment: How to use boxes to help a new cat adapt to your home faster.
• The Big Cat Test: Why even Lions and Tigers do the same thing.

 
Don't buy an expensive bed; just keep the box.
https://blog.catcognition.com/why-cats-love-boxes-science/
 
Key Topics: Thigmotaxis, Cat Boxes, Feline Stress, Environmental Enrichment, Cat Psychology, Animal Behavior.

✅ Watch the full video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CatCog