Owners of domestic cats often notice their pets' special attachment to closets and other closed spaces.
Every time the owners leave the closet door ajar, they risk finding their furry friend there, comfortably nestled among the clothes.
Natural instincts
The desire of cats to seek out secluded places is inherent in them by nature. Wild ancestors of domestic pets used small spaces as shelter from predators and bad weather. Modern cats have retained this behavioral feature, despite a long period of domestication.
Safety and comfort
The closet is the perfect place for a cat to rest. The enclosed space creates a sense of security, and the soft clothing serves as a wonderful bedding.
Darkness and silence help the animal to relax and recuperate after active games.
Territorial behavior
Cats mark their territory by leaving their scent on objects. The owner's closet becomes an attractive place for the pet, as familiar aromas are concentrated there.
The animal seeks to add its scent to the existing ones, exhibiting territorial behavior.
Hunting instincts
The closed space of the cabinet reminds the cat of a hunting shelter. The pet can watch what is happening through the crack in the door for hours, waiting for a convenient moment to "attack" passing family members or other pets.
Temperature comfort
The cabinet provides the optimal temperature for the cat to rest. In the cold season, the clothes keep the heat, and in the summer they create a pleasant coolness. Such conditions fully correspond to the natural needs of the animal.
Exploratory behavior
Curiosity is an integral part of the cat's character. New smells, textures, and sounds in the closet stimulate the pet's exploratory behavior. Every visit to the closet turns into an exciting adventure.
Social significance
Being in a closet among the owner's things helps the cat feel connected to the person. Familiar smells create a feeling of security and belonging to the family. The animal can use the closet as a place of privacy when it needs a break from active communication.
Behavioural characteristics of different breeds
Some breeds of cats are more inclined to seek out hiding places. Persian cats and British Shorthairs are especially fond of finding cozy places to rest.
Siamese cats, on the contrary, often prefer open spaces and active interaction with people.
Influence of the environment
A city apartment limits the cat's ability to explore the territory. The closet becomes an alternative to the natural shelters that the animal could find in nature. The ability to adapt to the available space demonstrates the high intelligence and adaptive abilities of cats.
For reference
Attachment is a feeling of closeness based on deep sympathy, love, devotion to someone or something.
