We took an adult cat, she hides, what should we do? - briefly
If you have taken in an adult cat and she is hiding, it's essential to give her time and space to adjust to her new environment. Provide her with a quiet, safe area where she can retreat if needed, and gradually introduce her to other parts of the house.
We took an adult cat, she hides, what should we do? - in detail
When you bring an adult cat into your home for the first time, it's not uncommon for her to hide. This behavior is often a response to the new environment and can be attributed to several factors. Here’s how you can help your cat feel more comfortable and encourage her to come out of hiding:
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Create a Safe Space: Before introducing the cat into your living space, prepare a quiet room where she can retreat if needed. This room should contain essentials like food, water, litter box, and a cozy bed or blanket. Make sure this room is off-limits to other pets and children for the initial period.
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Gradual Introduction: Don’t rush your cat into exploring the entire house at once. Allow her time to get used to her safe space first. Gradually open doors to other rooms, but don't force her to enter them. Let her explore at her own pace.
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Patience and Quiet: Cats are sensitive creatures and need time to adjust. Be patient and keep the environment as quiet and calm as possible. Avoid making sudden noises or movements that could startle her.
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Familiar Scent: If possible, bring something from the cat's previous home with you—a blanket, toy, or even a towel that has her scent on it. This familiar smell can be very comforting and help her feel more at ease in her new surroundings.
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Interaction: Once your cat starts venturing out of her hiding spot, encourage interaction but do not force it. Speak softly to her, offer treats, and allow her to approach you on her terms. If she shows interest in playing, engage with her using toys or interactive games that can help build trust.
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Use Catnip: Catnip can be a useful tool to entice your cat out of hiding. Sprinkle some catnip near the door of her safe space to encourage her to explore further. However, not all cats respond to catnip, so this method may not work for everyone.
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Monitor Health: If your cat continues to hide excessively and shows no signs of improvement even after a few weeks, it might be indicative of an underlying health issue. Consult with a veterinarian to rule out any medical problems that could be causing her anxiety or discomfort.
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Consistent Routine: Establishing a consistent routine for feeding times, playtimes, and quiet times can help your cat feel more secure. This predictability can reassure her that she is in a safe environment.
In summary, bringing an adult cat into a new home requires patience, understanding, and creating a comfortable space where she feels safe. By following these steps, you can help your cat transition smoothly into her new environment and reduce the likelihood of prolonged hiding behavior.