Why Is My Cat Hiding?

Has your feline friend been hiding a lot lately? This can be purrplexing behavior. Withdrawing is completely normal for some kitties, but can be a serious sign of distress or illness in others. Here, a Wheat Ridge, CO vet lists a few possible reasons for Fluffy to be hiding.

Adjustments

It’s not uncommon for cats to hide when they’re first brought to a new home. If you’ve just adopted your little buddy, or have just moved to a new place, don’t be surprised if your furball retreats to a safe spot. Check on Fluffy  frequently, but let her emerge and explore when she’s ready.

Fear

Some cats are very shy, and are frightened of, well, anything. Fluffy often hides when she’s scared. It’s not hard to understand why a nervous kitty would feel safer in a small or out-of-the-way spot. If your furball tends to flee when there is company or commotion, you may just have a scaredy-cat on your hands.

Ambush

On the other paw, some kitties are very bold and courageous. Fluffy clearly sees herself as a tiny lion! Your pint-sized panther may just be lying in wait and/or observing things from her chosen ambush spot.  

Friction

Fluffy may hide if she’s not getting along with another pet. Kitties can form very close bonds with their furry roommates, but this isn’t always the case. Make sure that your four-legged friends don’t have to compete for things like food or attention. Your feline pal may also hightail it for her favorite hiding spot if someone brings a dog over or if you adopt a new pup yourself. Keep a close eye on things, and ask your vet for advice.

Illness

Kitties often instinctively retreat if they aren’t feeling well. If Fluffy is usually perky and playful, but has suddenly started acting withdrawn, there may be something going on with her. Watch for other signs of illness, such reduced appetite, poor coat condition, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or respiratory issues. Contact your vet immediately if you spot anything off. Cats are very secretive about being sick, so you may not notice anything until your furry pal is quite ill.

Naptime

Our feline overlords can be pretty quirky. Fluffy may just enjoy snoozing in her new favorite spot!

Do you have questions about your cat’s behavior? Contact us, your Wheat Ridge, CO animal clinic, today!