May 19, 2010
Favorite Hiding Places
The HSUS
Your cat will run to the nearest hiding spot to make herself invisible whenever she is frightened. That might mean sticking her head under your arm at the veterinarian's office. A loud noise, a sudden movement, an active child, a stranger, a traumatic event, or the appearance of the dreaded cat carrier can all make her run for cover. Learn more about fear in cats »
Come out, come out
Unless you're rushing to make that veterinarian appointment or catch a flight, leave your cat alone. She'll probably come out later when she's feeling safer, wants to play, or is hungry. But seek out your cat if she misses her next meal, or if she won't come out of her hiding place for a longer amount of time. That could mean she's sick. Learn how to tell if your cat's sick »
You can reassure her by quietly talking to her in her hiding spot and leaving a few treats for her there. Many cats will respond to your voice and venture out of their hiding place. Don't force her out—she'll become fearful of you and even injure you.
Wherever you are
When you're looking for your cat, check all the regular spots first, then start getting creative. Here are some common hiding places:
- Under the furniture, behind the furniture, and sometimes inside the furniture!
- The back of a closet
- In the fireplace
- Behind books on a bookshelf
- In a drawer
- In a laundry basket
- Behind the drapes
- Behind an open door
- On top of the kitchen cupboards
- Under the bedspread
- In an empty dryer (always check inside before closing the door!)
Still can't find her? She's just gotten even more creative. Don't panic—just open a can of cat food or shake her treat bag!
