5 Weird Things Cats Love

Cats are fascinating creatures, often displaying behaviors that can baffle even the most seasoned pet owners. While many of us are familiar with the typical likes of cats—such as catnip, cozy napping spots, and chasing after string—there are some quirky preferences that might surprise you. Here are five weird things that cats love, and why they find them so utterly irresistible.

1. Cardboard Boxes

If you’ve ever seen a cat encounter a cardboard box, you know it’s a moment of pure joy. Cats seem to have an innate attraction to these humble containers. The reasons are twofold: safety and stimulation.

For starters, boxes provide cats with a place to hide and observe their surroundings, which taps into their natural instincts as predators. This nesting behavior gives them a sense of security, allowing them to watch from a safe space. Additionally, the texture of cardboard can be highly engaging for felines. Scratching and pawing at the box satisfies their need to engage with their environment.

Moreover, the enclosed space of a box helps them regulate their own body heat, making it a perfect cozy spot, especially when the weather turns chilly. So next time you receive a shipment in the mail, don’t toss the box out right away—your cat might just thank you for it!

2. The Scent of Citrus

While most of us find the smell of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes refreshing, many cats feel quite the opposite. It turns out that cats might actually love the scent of citrus despite their typical aversion to it.

Interestingly, citrus scents can act as a natural deterrent for some felines, leading to a belief that it could be a fun scent for them to explore. Cats are known for their curious nature, and the unique aroma of citrus can make it intriguing for them to sniff. Some pet owners even use citrus-scented sprays as a method to keep their cats away from certain areas of the house or furniture.

It’s a bit of a contradiction—cats dislike the scent itself but enjoy the exploration it brings. This peculiar relationship with citrus fruits showcases just how enigmatic cats can be!

3. Hair Ties

You might think that hair ties are just an annoying loss of personal grooming items around the house, but for cats, they can be a source of endless entertainment. The stretchy, bouncy quality of hair ties is incredibly appealing to cats, activating their hunting instincts.

Cats love to bat these items around, pounce on them, and carry them in their mouths. They may even enjoy the sound of a hair tie when it snaps back and bounces off surfaces, mimicking the thrill of catching prey. From a feline perspective, hair ties can resemble small, mobile toys, which can satisfy their urge to chase and capture.

However, it’s important to supervise playtime with hair ties. While they can provide fun, they can also pose a choking hazard if swallowed. Always keep an eye on your cat and provide them with safe toys designed specifically for feline play.

4. The Inside of Shoes

Here’s another quirky cat fascination: the inside of shoes. If you leave your shoes out (especially your sneakers or boots), don’t be surprised if your feline friend decides to take up residence inside.

The appeal? Shoes bear the scent of their owners, making them a comforting and familiar place for cats. With their keen sense of smell, cats often gravitate towards items that smell like their humans, especially when looking for warmth and comfort. The enclosed space of a shoe allows them to curl up and feel secure while simultaneously being close to you, which is something they adore.

Moreover, shoes often have interesting textures and shapes that can keep a cat’s attention. It’s not unusual to find them pawing at, scratching, or even practicing their hunting moves on your unsuspecting footwear. If you’re not fond of your shoes becoming feline playgrounds, consider providing a designated soft bed or shelter that can give your cat the same cozy feeling.

5. Crinkly Things

Have you ever noticed how much cats seem to love crinkly items? Whether it’s a crinkled bag, some tissue paper, or a shiny wrapper, your cat won’t be able to resist the allure of crinkly things.

The noise these items make triggers a cat’s predatory instincts. The sound mimics the rustling of leaves or small creatures in the wild, making it an exciting discovery. This can inspire them to stalk, pounce, and play, transforming the most mundane objects into the center of their entertainment universe.

Many cat toys are designed with crinkly materials for this very reason, and you might also consider crafting your own makeshift toys using items around the house. Just remember to supervise your cat during playtime to avoid any potential choking hazards.

Conclusion

Cats, with their quirky personalities and unique preferences, are endlessly entertaining. Their attraction to cardboard boxes, citrus scents, hair ties, the insides of shoes, and crinkly things reminds us of their playful and instinctual nature. Understanding what our feline companions love—no matter how weird—can deepen our bond and enhance their experience in our homes. So embrace the quirks and enjoy the whimsical world of your cat!