Of the three cats in my life, the first two were relatively chill, and the latest is by far the most full of energy, vigor, and character. As an example, the first cat never showed the slightest interest in blanket spelunking1, the second appreciated a good blanket spelunk, but was quickly satisfied she had seen what needed to be seen. The latest is absolutely obsessed with it. Ever wrinkle, every corner, every seam- it must be thoroughly explored and examined!
As I continue to adjust to this personality that is so different from what I am accustomed to, I feel like anything I can do to encourage positive outlets of his energy, I need to latch on to. Blanket Spelunking is right up there on the list, alongside several others.
So first, I want to get inside the cat's head. This doesn't seem to be a hunting-related behavior, at least not on the surface of it. I can tell it is fun, but why? I understand why human kids build forts, but what is the motive for the feline spelunker?
Second, I want to make it more fun and enjoyable. Hiding toys and treats under blankets would be an obvious step (or would it?). Are there other things I can do? Perhaps knowing the motive will make this clearer, but I am asking anyway.
1Just in case I am coining a term the community is not familiar with, Blanket Spelunking is the sport of squeezing ones body under a blanket, then crawling around underneath.