Cats have a special fondness for cardboard boxes. The lowly cardboard box is more than your kitty’s cosy resting place — it’s her fortress, her playpen and her stress-free sanctuary all rolled into one. There are different types to choose from. When you purchase a cardboard cat box, the one you choose can have a positive impact on your pet’s health as well as your home’s style. From basic square designs to fancy playhouses, there’s a cardboard cat box for every cat personality and owner preference. In this article, we’ve uncovered the best of the best and explained why buying the right design will be worth it for you and your cat.
Why Cats Love Cardboard Cat Boxes
Before we delve into particular styles, it’s worth studying why the cardboard cat box is such a kitty magnet. The enclosed forest cats instinctively gravitate to enclosed areas to feel safe and secure. Cardboard is especially pleasant—line it to give them something to scratch, something snug and insulated to curl on, and something familiar smelling to help keep them from feeling adrift. Cardboard cat houses are also environmentally friendly as they can be recycled and replaced very easily and are inexpensive.
Classic Box Designs: Simple and Functional
A simple paperboard cat box is often square-shaped or rectangular with openings. These styles function as a reliable hideaway for cats to curl up without too many distractions. Whilst they may look minimalist, many cats appreciate the privacy and simplicity of classic boxes. Surrounding walls and a small entrance create a den-like space where cats can feel alone when they want peace. And many cats prefer having an extra layer of security, they can get into models with a top flap or removable lid.
Multi-Level Cat Condos: Adventure and Elevation
To keep more active cats entertained, multi-level cardboard cat boxes take up vertical space and provide more interactivity. Many of these designs offer stacked shelves, tunnels and peek-holes to keep your cats in motion and having fun. The height offers them the feeling of being in control over their surroundings and fulfils their desire to watch over things from an elevated level. These are especially awesome in multi-cat homes, because each cat has their room that can’t be overtaken by a dominant cat. Multi-level cardboard boxes. These boxes are lightweight, simple to put together and surprisingly sturdy for cardboard.
Themed Cat Houses: Stylish and Whimsical
When it comes to cardboard cat boxes, some of the most fun and creative ones take inspiration from the structures in the real world and come in miniature form. These could be cardboard castles, campers, food trucks or small living rooms. These themed structures combine form and function – your cat will love to explore their new space, and you’ll love the way it looks in your home. These kinds are particularly favoured by cat owners who like pet furniture to match their home decor. They may not be as durable as traditional furniture, but that’s also their appeal: Themed cardboard cat boxes often become a cat’s favourite hangout spot, and are a conversation starter to say the least.
Scratch and Lounge Combos: Dual-Purpose Designs
If you are in the market for a cardboard cat box that can perform multiple functions, check out the scratch and lounge combo. These include padding the bottom or sides of the box with a scratchy surface so the cat can stretch and keep their claws healthy. This kind of cat cardboard box for cats is perfect for indoor cats because it promotes natural behaviour without ruining your furniture. A lot of these combinations are ergonomically designed to fit your cat’s body for a nap, so you get both relaxation and play value in one.
Enclosed Domes and Caves: Maximum Privacy
Other cats prefer their space to be fully closed. For these private types of cats, dome-style or cave-style cardboard cat boxes or cave-style will be their best choice! These boxes typically have just one entrance and a dome or igloo shape, providing a dark, cosy place for your cat to relax where he or she won’t be bothered. They are particularly attractive to timid or nervous cats that require a secure hideaway to minimise anxiety. Since cardboard is an insulator, these confined boxes can remain warm even when outdoor temperatures are chilly.
DIY and Customizable Cardboard Cat Boxes
Cardboard has a lot going for it, particularly its versatility. One popular trend is that cat owners are creating their own cardboard cat boxes and customising them to any desired spot in the home. The more DIY approach to cardboard cat boxes allows unlimited creativity — you can add windows, cut multiple doors, stack levels, decorate the outside with pet-safe paints and markers, etc. If you feel inspired, creating your cardboard cat box can be a rewarding project that you and your cat will both get a real kick out of.
Benefits of Cardboard as a Material
In addition to being favoured by felines, cardboard has numerous practical advantages. It’s light and you can quickly move it and the boxes around your home. It’s also inexpensive, so buying new boxes doesn’t break the bank. Environmentally, cardboard is recyclable and frequently manufactured from post-consumer waste, promoting sustainability and working towards a healthier planet. If hygiene is an issue, many of the cardboard cat boxes can be lined or covered with washable materials to help make them last longer and keep things clean.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Cat
When choosing a cardboard cat box, think about your cat’s personality and habits. How playful is your cat? Does it like open space or hidden nooks? By observing your cat, you can decide on your purchase so you don’t waste money on a box the cat won’t touch. Also, take box size and sturdiness into consideration, especially for larger, more active cats. Not all cardboard is created equal and not all shapes and designs can handle the same weight and wear. Find boxes with heavy-duty edges, or multiple layers for added strength.
Conclusion: The Perfect Cardboard Cat Box Awaits
A cardboard cat box isn’t just a pet accessory—it’s an integral part of your cat’s daily routine and well-being. From a basic hideaway to a multi-level tower or even a decorative miniature mansion, with the perfect cardboard cat box, you can provide your feline friend with a nesting space, entertainment and a feeling of ownership. And with so many to choose from, it’s easier than ever to find a design that suits your cat, and your home. Try different styles and find one that your cat will love and enjoy.
