Have you prepared the cat delivery room for your pet?

“Caramel is gone again, she’s due in two days,” my friend fretted as we anticipated the imminent arrival of her kittens. I glanced around her living room, marveling at the whimsical cat delivery room she had set up. It got me thinking about our human tendency to approach the world with a presumptuous mindset when it comes to design. But you know what? The real magic happens when we step back and explore the authentic textures of nature, embracing its raw beauty without excessive intervention. That’s when the best design truly emerges.

The design industry emphasizes human-centered user experience, but it’s essential to consider the broader world, including nature and other creatures. Expanding the application of design methods allows us to better engage with the world. For example, observing a pregnant cat’s behavior reveals her fondness for crevices and cardboard boxes. Cats are naturally curious and seek warm, secure spaces, which cardboard boxes provide. In contrast, visually appealing delivery rooms, while convenient for humans, can make cats feel insecure due to their openness and transparency.

How does a business improve pets’ product design?

Pet product companies have the opportunity to enhance their designs by creating upgraded cartons that offer a sense of security while remaining convenient for human caretakers. Consideration for both feline comfort and human convenience can lead to innovative solutions. I’ve sketched some preliminary ideas to inspire and document potential design improvements.