Kitten Hiding in the Suitcase

About this drawing

Anyone who lives with cats knows that a kitten in a suitcase is practically a travel tradition. Unzip your bag, turn around for a minute, and there is someone sitting on your sweaters. The cat is not asking for a vacation. It simply has a strong attraction to small, enclosed spaces.

Tight spots feel safe. Cats may be skilled hunters, but they are small enough to be hunted too, so a hiding place with walls on several sides is comforting. It lets them watch the room while staying out of sight. One study of shelter cats found that animals given a box settled in sooner than those without one.

Smell plays a part as well. Your clothes carry your scent, which a cat finds familiar and pleasant. On top of that, cats inspect everything that shows up in their territory. A new object must be sniffed, rubbed against and, naturally, sat on.

Some owners swear that their cats know when a trip is coming. Cats are sensitive to changes in routine, and dragging out the luggage is a pretty clear signal that something is up. Before you close that zipper, take a second look inside. And if your pet really is coming along, a secure carrier is the only safe way for a cat to travel.

• kitten
• suitcase
• travel
• curious cats