Why Do Cats Like Laundry Baskets

Why Do Cats Like Laundry Baskets

Why Do Cats Like Laundry Baskets

It’s not unusual for cat owners to discover their feline companion in a laundry basket. But why are laundry baskets so appealing to cats? Your cat may be drawn to laundry baskets for a variety of reasons, many of which are connected to the same instincts that make them enjoy boxes.

On the other hand, some cats prefer laundry baskets that contain clothing. We’ll talk about why your cat adores the laundry basket in this post.

A few safety precautions before we begin:

Make sure to look for your cat whenever you do laundry if they enjoy the laundry room. It might be extremely dangerous for your cat to wind up in the washing machine!

Second, slap a sticker on your dryer to remind you to turn it on only after making sure your cat is inside.

Why Cats Like Laundry Baskets

Although cat behavior is hard to explain, their affection for laundry baskets is rather straightforward. For a variety of reasons listed below, your cat probably likes laundry baskets.

They Feel Safe and Comfy

The fact that laundry baskets give cats a sense of security and comfort is one of the main reasons they enjoy sitting inside of them. This is partly because of their innate sense that small, concealed spaces are secure.

Your clothing is another reason your cat might feel secure in the laundry basket. Clothing not only keeps your scent fresh, but it’s also comfortable for your cat to curl up on. Your cat finds the laundry basket to be a secure place because of your soothing and well-known aroma.

Catching your cat resting on your clean clothes could be a bit annoying, but take it as a compliment. It indicates that your cat believes you to be a reliable individual.

Laundry Baskets Are Warm

The warmth of laundry baskets is another factor contributing to their popularity among cats. Cats adore warm, comfortable environments and prefer warmer temperatures than humans. An enclosed basket filled with warm, newly laundered clothing is the ideal spot for a comfortable slumber, as the National Research Council (NRC) discovered that cats’ thermoneutral zone (TNZ) lies between 86º and 100.4° Fahrenheit (30º and 38º Celsius).

They’re a playground

Cats can be sluggish, but they can also be gregarious. Your cat is most likely using the laundry basket as a playground if they aren’t using it to curl up and nap.

Due to their infamous curiosity, cats can discover a whole new universe in a box. They enjoy exploring new things, and a laundry basket is always changing as fresh loads of laundry are brought in and taken out.

Your cat might like scratching your laundry basket if it’s made of wicker or a similar material. They may find the material appealing because it feels nice on their claws.

Hiding Spots Relieve Stress

As previously said, cats are drawn to enclosed areas because they feel secure there. This safe refuge can therefore help your cat feel less stressed. According to a study by the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands, cats in shelters that had cardboard boxes adapted to their surroundings more quickly than those that did not.

Your cat probably just needs a few minutes alone if they are hiding in your laundry basket.

Laundry Baskets Are a Good Place to Decompress

No matter how sweet your cat is, conflicts can arise. If your cat is experiencing tension with another family member, they may seek a private place to decompress.

When they return to the laundry basket after having a spat with another pet or family member, it’s best just to leave them be.

It’s a Perfect Place for an Ambush

Your cat has a natural hunter’s instinct even if they have never been outside for a day. Your cat might hide in the laundry basket to try an ambush because cats are great hunters and wait until their target is within range to attack.

Your cat probably considers the laundry basket to be their own hunting ground if they jump at your ankles as you go by it.

Keeping Your Cat Out of the Laundry

It’s cute to find your cat in the laundry basket, but it can be annoying if they get fur on your clean clothes. Additionally, you want to prevent the possibility of your cat getting into the washing machine itself, which may be extremely hazardous and possibly lethal. You can take action to reroute your cat’s behavior if you can mimic the sense of security and stability they probably get from the laundry basket in a box or other confined area.

First, think about the occasions when you discovered your feline in the laundry basket. Were the clothing comfortable and toasty inside? If your cat is drawn to the comfort, think about getting them a heated cat bed. Was your feline playful and eager to play? Then, perhaps kids require additional enrichment activities or interactive toys. You can divert your cat’s attention from the laundry box if you consider their requirements and figure out a way to meet them elsewhere.

Summary

It’s common knowledge that cats will get their fur on everything, including your clothes. Your cat may be lured to your laundry basket for a variety of reasons, including the sense of security it offers. You can prevent your cat from getting into your laundry basket by putting what they like best about it in a different place and keeping it out of reach.

Read also: Reasons for cats licking their fur