Why Your Adopted Cat May Be Hiding All Day

Bringing home a new cat can be an exciting experience, but it's essential to remember that this big change can be stressful for your new companion. Cats need time to adjust to their new environment and get used to their new humans. In many cases, they may hide away for several days or even weeks before feeling comfortable enough to emerge.

This is exactly what happened with Maddie, a 2-year-old calico cat I adopted over a month ago. At first, she was energetic and playful, but soon after arriving at my home, she became withdrawn and stopped coming out of her hiding spot. She had dug a hole into the bottom of my couch and was content to stay there.

As an adopter, it's natural to feel concerned about your cat's behavior, especially if they're not adjusting as quickly as you'd like. However, it's crucial to remember that every cat handles change differently. Some may take longer than others to settle into their new surroundings.

So, why do cats hide all day? In many cases, it's because of stress and anxiety caused by the transition. Cats are creatures of habit and prefer routine. When they're introduced to a new home, they may feel overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of their new environment. This can cause them to retreat into hiding, where they feel safe and secure.

To help your cat adjust to her new home and encourage her to come out of hiding, it's essential to provide a quiet, low-traffic area for her to explore at her own pace. A spare bedroom or office can be an ideal spot for this, as long as it's away from high-traffic areas and noisy rooms.

Another way to help your cat feel more calm and comfortable is by using pheromone diffusers. These devices mimic the natural pheromones that cats produce to mark their territory, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

In Maddie's case, I tried using a pheromone diffuser in her hiding spot, hoping it would encourage her to come out. However, after a month of trying different approaches, she still hasn't emerged from her hiding spot. While this has been frustrating at times, I've learned to be patient and give her the space she needs.

If you're experiencing similar issues with your adopted cat, remember that patience is key. With time, love, and a gentle approach, your cat will eventually feel comfortable enough to come out of hiding and start enjoying her new life with you.

Adopted cat hides all day