Cats are masters of secrecy. How often have you found your cat hiding in a cabinet, behind the sofa, in a bag, or in the washing machine? It’s all part of a kitty’s charm.
Table of contents
- Is it normal for a cat to hide?
- Why is my cat hiding all of a sudden?
- New cat hiding
- Cat hiding after moving houses
- Do cats hide when they are sick?
- Why is my cat hiding and not eating?
- Pregnant cat hiding
- Cat hiding due to environmental changes
- What are some preferred cat hiding spots?
- How long will a cat stay in hiding?
- Help your cat feel more confident
- Create a comfortable home environment
- Calming diffusers can help
- Reinforce positive behaviors
- Make sure your cat doesn’t feel trapped
- Check with a vet
- How do I get my cat out of hiding?
Is it normal for a cat to hide?
Some cats are bold and others are shy, but nearly all cats have a natural affinity for small spaces. These cozy spots offer warmth, safety, and comfort as a cat snoozes the day away. A hiding place that allows your kitty to slyly observe household activity is even better. And a location just out of your reach is the best of all!
This is typical feline behavior, and most cats will emerge from their hiding place and allow you to shower them with affection once or twice a day. And remember that your cat may be roaming the house at night, while you are asleep.
But if your cat suddenly starts hiding all the time and refuses to interact with you, there may be something wrong.
Why is my cat hiding all of a sudden?
When your cat stops being social and begins spending most of their time hiding, it could be a sign of anxiety, stress, or illness.
New cat hiding
When you bring a new cat into your home, it’s perfectly normal for the new kitty to hide as it becomes accustomed to its environment.
To help your cat adjust, create a safe zone where your cat be separated from the rest of the home, such as a guest bedroom. Place a tall baby gate across the door. Visit your new kitty throughout the day, but allow them to explore the room alone for a day or two before integrating them into the house. They’ll gradually get more comfortable and will soon have the run of your house!
Cat hiding after moving houses
If your family moves to a new home, this can be a very stressful time for your cat.
Before moving day, make sure your cat is wearing ID tags, is microchipped, and is wearing a GPS tracking collar. Safely transport your feline friend to the new home in a pet carrier. Once inside your new abode, keep your kitty in the closed pet carrier to avoid a dash out the wide-open front door amid the commotion of move-in day.
Once the movers have gone, chose an empty room as the cat’s safe zone. Place your kitty’s familiar food and water bowls, bedding, and the open pet carrier in the room with your cat place a baby gate across the door. Visit your feline friend a few times during the day. Tell the kids not to leave the gate open! Your cat will gradually relax as they get used to the smells and noises of the new house.
