Why Is My Cat Hiding? | General Cat Articles

Plants toxic to cats - A - Z guide to toxic plants





Cat World > Cat Articles > Why Is My Cat Hiding?

Why Is My Cat Hiding?

why is my cat hidingWhy is my cat hiding?



Some cats are afraid of strangers, we had a cat who was fine with just us around, but as soon as a stranger came up to the house he would run and hide. That was just his inherent nature, and not something to be overly concerned with. That's just how he was.

Some cats like to hide because they can. Our cat Levi loves to hop into cupboards when we're not looking.  He's always been this way, so again, it's not really a great concern. If we can't find him, we start looking in the cupboards. He's usually in one of them.

Signs of illness:


Cats are very stoic by nature and can hide signs of pain well. This is why it is important for the pet owner to be aware of what's "normal" in our cats and alert to changes in behaviour as well as other symptoms. Common signs your cat is not well vary from disease to disease, but common symptoms may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Increased vocalisation (meowing more)
  • Changes in litter box habits
  • Sleeping more

Physical symptoms may include:

  • Increased or decreased thirst
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Unkempt coat



It is reasonably normal for a new cat to hide for the first few days. Moving in with a new family can be quite stressful on a cat. He should not be forced to come out. A new cat needs a little time and space to adjust. You can help by regularly trying to coax him out with a soft voice and possibly some tasty treats or a cat toy. I have found that most cats quickly adjust to their new home and come out when the are ready.


Pregnancy and birth:

A pregnant female nearing her due date may make a nest in an out of the way place in preparation for the birth of her kittens. This is normal behaviour and it makes sense. In the wild, a new mother and her kittens are vulnerable to predators, so it makes sense that she would choose to make a nest in an out of the way place. Of course what she deems to be a suitable location may not be somewhere you would choose. It is a good idea to provide the expectant mother with a nesting box, it should be placed in a quiet location, but somewhere you can easily access.



Hiding in inappropriate spots:


Also see:

Scared cats



Why Is My Cat Hiding? | General Cat Articles
Cat Breed Profiles
Maine Coon


Why Is My Cat Hiding? | General Cat Articles