Your cat chose this place to rest? We know what this means
Is your cat with stubborn maniac lounge on a concrete cube or scratching the pavement, as if it was the most convenient thing in the world? You are not alone. Although it may seem strange, scientists have a surprising explanation for this. What does cold concrete hide that it attracts some cats more than fluffy pillows and beds?
Cat lovers know well that their four -legged companions can surprise with their preferences. Sometimes they are fascinated by rustling foil, at other times they stare at the wall for hours or … with delight they lie on hard, cold surfaces. Recently, more and more owners have reported that their pets have particularly felt like … concrete slabs. Some went a step further and bought special concrete paving stones for their cats, which are set at home like toys.
But where does this strange interest in concrete?
Although thorough scientific research has not yet been carried out on this subject, one of the recognized specialists in the field of cat biology has its theory. Professor Jonathan Losos from the University of Washington in St. Louis, author of the book “The Cat’s Meow: How Cats Evolved from the Savanna to Your Sofa”, indicates several possible causes of this extraordinary fascination.
According to Professor Losos, the reason may be above all a rough, rough surface of concrete. Such material is perfect as a “tool” for scratching, rubbing and cleaning. In this way, cats can reach hard -to -reach places of their body and relax at the same time.
What’s more, concrete surfaces can perform a territorial function. Cats have fragrance glands located, among others, around the mouth and on the body. By rubbing against objects, they leave their pheromones on them, which for other cats is a signal: “This is my place.”
One should not forget about the innate curiosity of these animals. Cats often react to new items appearing in their surroundings – regardless of whether they are cartons, bags or … concrete cubes. The fact that the concrete block is in the apartment can be so intriguing for a cat that he will want to examine it, and then … accept as his lair.
Cats and obsession with rectangles
Losos also reminded of the phenomenon that a few years ago mastered social media: cat owners arranged rectangles from painting tape on the floor – and cats sat within them, as if it were their new territory. There are many indications that cats feel safer in designated, limited spaces, hence their liking for boxes.
Research conducted in 2021 confirms that cats are eager to sit down even in illusory squares. All you need is a properly arranged shape on the floor to get them inside.
Concrete blocks, like cartons and tape, also have clear contours and a rectangular form. This can trigger an instinctive sense of security in cats and the need to enter the designated space.
“This is an extremely intriguing phenomenon that is asked for serious scientific research,” sums up Professor Losos.
