Can Science Explain the 'If I Fits' Phenomenon?

A recent article in Wired attempts the impossible task of delving into the adorably mysterious tendency for cats to crawl inside of boxes or anything else they can fit into.

Science has come up three possible reasons.

evrobinson

01
Boxes make your cat feel safe

A Dutch study found that cats given boxes upon entering into a shelter got used to their surroundings much more quickly than those that were deprived of fitting. Maru definitely proves that a cat is content in a box.

Via mugumogu
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02
Your cat doesn't want to deal with your nonsense

The Domestic Cat: The Biology of its Behaviour claims that "Cats do not appear to develop conflict resolution strategies to the extent that more gregarious species do, so they may attempt to circumvent antagonistic encounters by avoiding others or decreasing their activity."

In other words, our cats look at us or their dog roommates and literally can't even.

Via Wired
03
It's cold in here, human!

Cats are most comfortable in 86 - 97 degrees fahrenheit. Boxes, sinks, bowls and even tea kettles are just a little extra nap insulation.

Via Bored Panda
04
The only thing we know for certain? Cats are weird

Whether or not the mystery is ever solved, 'if i fits' photos are great captioning fodder. Caption one of your faves from the 15 new images in our builder and we'll publish a list of some of the good ones!

Update: Check out this list of the 10 "If I Fits" Memes that Truly Explain the Phenomenon.

Via mugumogu