Why Do Cats Not Like Closed Doors?
Most people are familiar with cats’ tendency to want to explore and check out new spaces. But why do cats not like closed doors?
Need for Exploration
Cats are natural explorers, which is why they enjoy investigating new and unusual things like scents, items, and objects. Closed doors can be impediments to cats’ exploratory nature as they provide a barrier to further investigation.
Fear of the Unknown
In addition to this, cats can also have an innate fear of the unknown. A closed door represents one big unknown. This fear can be compounded when an unfamiliar scent is coming from behind the closed door – the curiosity and fear of the unknown can be too difficult for a cat to resist!
Relinquishing Control
Cats are also creatures of control. When they are on the outside of the door, they are in control; but when a door is closed, that control is relinquished as they cannot access what is on the other side.
Predator Instincts
Cats’ predatory instincts can also cause them to be wary of closed doors. They are not always sure of what might be lurking on the other side, and cats can become anxious when they don’t have a clear way of defending themselves or escaping.
So if your cat is determined to explore the other side of the closed door, it is probably for one of the above reasons. To ease your cat’s anxiety, you can leave the door slightly ajar so they can investigate what is beyond it. Alternatively, you can reward your cat with treats or give them some playtime after they investigate the other side of the door to help them feel more comfortable with it.
Whatever you decide to do, it is important to remember to respect your cat’s instincts and provide them with a safe environment to explore!
5. Is there a evolutionary reason why cats seem to have an aversion to closed doors?
There is no scientific evidence to support this premise, but some experts believe that cats’ aversion to closed doors is a result of an evolutionary instinct to protect themselves from getting caught in places where they cannot escape. Cats have been known to panic when confined in an enclosed space and may react aggressively, which is a trait that evolved in response to threats from predators.
3. Are there certain kinds of doors that cats do not like closed?
Cats are naturally curious and usually enjoy exploring any and all open doors, as they prefer to see what lies beyond. However, they can be picky when it comes to certain doors that may represent a barrier to them, such as ones that lead to the outdoors or doors that confine them to a single room. Cats may also become anxious or agitated if doors slam in their faces, as loud sounds are often perceived as a threatening experience for cats.
4. Is there anything I can do to create a sense of security for my cat when doors are closed?
You can try to create a play or rest area for your cat near the door where the cat feels secure. Provide toys, a comfortable bed, and items that the cat can scratch or perch on. Playing music, using pheromone sprays, or plugging in a Feliway diffuser may also help. Place something in front of the door that your cat can see through such as an open doorstop, a cat tree, or a scratching post. Finally, if you are consistently closing the door, make sure to spend quality time with your cat and provide plenty of treats and affection.