Editor’s note: Have you seen the new Catster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting area of your vet’s office? This article appeared in our May/June 2017 issue. Click here to subscribe to Catster and get the bimonthly magazine delivered to your home.
ave you ever wondered why your cat likes to stow away inside small spaces? Maybe you’ve noticed her sleeping under the bed or playing inside a paper bag. How many times have you looked into a cabinet to see eyes peering back at you?
Well, according to Dr. Tony Buffington, emeritus professor of veterinary clinical sciences at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, there are a number of reasons cats might prefer these cramped quarters. First, cats are hardwired to hunt for prey in small spaces, so Kitty may think she’ll find a tiny snack inside that cardboard box. When cats feel unsafe, they can retreat into a small space to hide; when they feel safe they may simply want a quiet place to rest. And finally, there’s always the lure of warmth, because cats prefer warm temperatures, and small spaces can be quite cozy.
I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to litter your house with paper bags and cardboard boxes to give your cat places to hang out. There are tons of stylish options for cat hideaways available. You can give kitty exactly what she’s looking for while complementing the design of your home.
Cardboard and paper hideaways
Every cat loves a cardboard box, but your living room doesn’t have to look like a recycling center.
There are all kinds of options that look really cool, plus they have extra features cats will love, like multiple openings and peep holes.
Get fancy
Designers are having a blast coming up with some of the cutest cat hideaways. From miniature buildings to vehicles and more, there’s something for everyone. And just imagine
the photo ops!
Soft cat caves
For extra warmth and coziness, choose a hideaway made from soft fabric or felt. Cats love to curl up inside these cozy caves, and most cat caves are machine washable. Choose from a wide variety of colors and patterns to match your décor.
Furniture cat hideaways
There are lots of stylish options for furniture that serves as the perfect cat hideaway.
Some pieces double as side tables or footstools. Your guests might never even know there’s a cat hiding inside.
Raised hangouts
Hideaways don’t always have to be on the ground. Give Kitty a new perspective with a raised hangout so she can keep an eye on what’s happening from her safe spot.
Features to look for
- Easy to clean: Choose a hideaway that can be thrown in the washing machine or easily opened for regular cleaning inside.
- Easy to reach inside: Make sure you can reach inside the hideaway not just for cleaning but also in case you need to get your cat out.
- Multiple openings: Ideally, hideaways should have more than one opening, especially in a multi-cat household.
DIY cat hideaways
You can always make your own creative cat hideaway with a few modifications to a piece of furniture. Cabinets and benches can be easily hacked to give your cat an accessible space that looks great.
About the author: Kate Benjamin is the founder of the popular cat style blog Hauspanther.com. She specializes in helping people live stylishly with cats. You may have seen her on Jackson Galaxy’s show My Cat From Hell. Make sure to check out Kate and Jackson’s books Catification: Designing a Happy and Stylish Home for Your Cat (and You!) and Catify to Satisfy: Simple Solutions for Creating a Cat-friendly Home.
