The domesticated cat learns to think like its modern prey, the tin of cat food.

Shrödinger’s cat was a theoretical cat, or cats, in a theoretical box, or boxes. In this universe at least, Twitter user @chat_29q‘s cat is a very alive, very real cat in a can. The proof? Open the lid (no can opener required) and:

Where pet cats in other countries may roam relatively freely, although show up to eat dinner and condescend, Japanese cats are largely house-bound lest they join the epidemic of wild cats found in most cities. Therefore, these pampered felines are used to the very best of things from their devoted owners/”parents”. One way Japanese Twitter and Instagram users have chosen to display their love, or show off the photogenic appeal of their charges, is with the Cat Can (Neko kan).

The Can, formed from sturdy cardboard, is made by a company called Furukawa, which specialises in card and papercraft. They also make a number of other hideaways aimed at cats, including the Shark, which manages to be adorably cute despite the fearsome teeth.

The Can has proved to be a hit on Instagram, especially as you can have your own cat’s photo plastered on the side of the can to make it unique to you.

Normally tins guarantee long-life. These cans can’t do that but they do seem to guarantee fun for your herd (or clowder, if you’re being fancy) of cats.

It isn’t the first time we’ve seen cats in cans, but this time they’re correctly labelled, big enough for two (or more, if you’re determined enough), and personalised. They’re also perfect for keeping your cats out from under your feet, because cats, like demons with salt, can’t seem to resist circles.

Both the Can and the Shark are available on the Furukawa website, at 2,839 yen (US$26) for the Can (and an additional 200 yen to have your personal photo on the side) and 1,780 yen for the Shark.

Source, images: Furukawa Plc.