The Best Present Under the Tree Turned Out to Be a Gray Cat in a Box

Topped with a big red bow, a cardboard gift box holds the best present of the day, and she is gray, green-eyed, and perfectly round-faced. The Russian Blue sits inside with a nest of brown tissue paper beneath her, whiskers forward and chin lifted, looking out at the room. Cozy blankets in cream and navy rest on the couch behind her, and the light of a winter afternoon falls across the floor.

Almost every cat owner has seen it. A brand-new toy sits untouched while the box it came in becomes a favorite spot. Cats like boxes because they feel safe in small, enclosed spaces, and a box helps hold in warmth and gives them a place to watch the world without being watched. Many cat experts recommend hiding places as a way to help cats feel less stressed, so a box is a simple and cheap comfort.

If your cat has a gift box, be sure to remove any tape, staples, or loose ribbon that could be swallowed. Tissue paper is usually fine for sitting but not for eating. A plain box with a soft towel inside makes a good permanent bed. As always, your vet is the best source for any questions about your cat's comfort and health.

This Russian Blue has clearly made her decision. The bow stays on, the box stays put, and the best gift under the tree is already unwrapped and sitting right inside it.