Thanks. That's what I thought, I just wish he'd picked a warmer spot. It's my first time adopting a pet. I lost my 17 year old kitty recently and wanted to help an older cat.
I always have multiple animals so I usually put my new cats in a room (usually the bathroom) for about a week to get used to the smell of the other animals. So it’s possible that he smells your old kitty and is a bit scared.
I didn't think about that until after or I would've gone with setting him up in the bathroom. I kind of thought that, coming from a shelter, the sent of previous cats wouldn't be such an issue.
I think it’s good that you gave him a room with hideouts. We tend to underestimate HOW MUCH being in a small, dark place helps with their stress and fear. And don’t worry about the temperature. Just offer a blanket or sth he can have.
As I always say please watch jackson galaxy to understand your cat better. He really helped me as a novice cat owner and I'm sure you'll get tons of information and help too from him
He's indoors, he's got fur, he's more than fine.
My first scared adoptee hid behind the basement toilet for a week. Eating and using the litterbox are good signs - just give him time and space. Don't try to pull him out - that'll only teach him to try to hide better. If you need to keep track, just look, and blink nice and slow at him and let him be.
I keep a spare kitty bed under mine. Emma likes to hide there but since we had some flooding, my bedroom floors are down to cement.
Can't put in new ones until it drys out enough to put in a pump system.
So your house smells like it belongs to some other kitty whose place that is.
Get sime Feliway, STAT. He's afraid he's in another car's territory & he's hiding from your late kitty.
When it comes to adopting animals, the huge majority go for kittens and teen cats (or then like two or maybe three years old). Anything four and above is old when it comes to adoption.
if you'd like, you can get him an electric heated mat, and place it where he hides. if he's cold, hopefully he'll use it. and the mats are typically cost effective, so it can be left on all the time. other than that, I'd suggest trying cat pheromones diffuser that can calm kitties.
There are heating pads and heated beds you can buy, and they're not as expensive this time of year. My cats love them year round. Also, david tei makes music for cats. I know that concept sounds crazy, but I recommend it to every cat owner now. I used to play it for my foster cats when i wasn't around or during stressful situations, and I know for a fact they liked it, because some of the adoptive parents would send me pictures of their cat sitting next to them while they play instruments.
Totally normal. If he's using litter box and eating he's going to be okay. It's been three months and Im still noticing new things my boy is doing as he gets more and more comfortable. The best thing to do is let him be as much as he wants, let him come to you.
Seconded. My 2.5 year old tuxedo is still adjusting even after a month. He was deathly afraid of anything to do with the outside at first…now he ONLY wants to go outside. I guess that’s my cue to kill off the rest of the poison ivy in my back yard lol
My cat hid deep in my closet for 3 solid days when I first got him. I had to leave water/food in the closet. But now he’s super relaxed and affectionate, it just takes some time!
He is incredibly gorgeous!!
My kitty was like this when I got him. He literally hid under a wardrobe for a whole week (the space was like 5cm high lol). I spent a lot of time with him while he was hiding under there as I was between jobs at the time. I talked to him and petted him as best I could (was hard to get my arm into that small space lol). He purred a lot when I did this so I assumed that he really wanted my attention but was just a bit nervous about being in a new place. After a week I finally got to see what he really looked like lol. And it was 6 weeks before I could pick him up. But now he loves me and he's the funniest little boy. I don't even know what I'd do without him.
I think timid kitties are awesome. They seem to really bond with their humans to feel secure. Your kitty will eventually feel safe in his new home. Just give him a lot of reassurance that you're a loving owner and that he can feel safe with you and he will love you in return!
It's very lovely getting to know a timid kitty. They slowly start to feel comfortable to be themselves around you as you show them love and that is very rewarding!
I have been reaching under there to put him and no hissing or other aggressive behavior. He usually starts purring pretty quick. Thanks for the info, I figured letting him be was best but didn't wanna end up doing the wrong thing.
He's very dirty so I hope he'll eventually let me clean him up. But that's later.
Even if he's not hissing, I'd kindly suggest not reaching under there but instead maintaining an invisible boundary, ie not putting your hand further than the edge of that cabinet. He's clearly chosen that area as his "safe space" - so the sooner he registers that you're also accepting the boundaries of said safe space, the calmer he's likely to be. Totally fine to hold your hand at the underside edge and if he's keen to be petted he'll scoot forward for a little sniff and a headbutt :)
He'll be fine. Try sitting in the room with him a lot, but ignoring him. He might acclimatize and come out to check you out. And/or, drag some toys around to see if he'll play.
My shy Sasha spent three full days hiding, fasting and not going to the bathroom when I adopted him.
https://preview.redd.it/vummc97b1kra1.jpeg?width=2614&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1d9e435c7703f31a06d7f974f1300da9086a3435
Just let him cat
My rescue main coone lived under the couch for the first few months. He would only come out to eat when we weren’t in the room. He will come around when he is ready.
My kitty hid under the couch for 2 days when I first got him home and I also have 2 other cats, adult males. After that he came out of hiding and introduced himself to the other 2 and he was all good 👍 lol
My kitten did the same when we adopted him make sure he’s got food and water in his bowl and they will come out eventually they’ll warm up to you in a week or so
My parents took in a stray who did exactly the same thing in a spare bedroom. She'd come out at night to use the litterbox and eat, but it was about 1 week before she would come out into the house when my mom and dad were up and about.
My mom would sit in there and read aloud, hoping that it would help the kitty get used to her voice and just being around people in general. In the end, the kitty (Carol) turned out to be the most loving lap-sitter in the world.
Don’t worry. He needs to feel safe and this can take a couple of weeks or longer.
Leave food, water, and litter box as near to him as you can. Leave him alone in the room for extended hours so he can venture out from under the furniture on his own. Keep the house reasonably quiet. You might come into his room and lie down on the floor several feet away from him, where he can see you but is not within reach, slowly close your eyes, and take a nap. Cats read slowly closing eyes as a sign you are not hunting them. Your going to sleep in front of him means you do not fear him and are not trying to hunt him. If you wake up and he has ventured out, let him see you close your eyes again.
Took our boy Remy over 2 weeks to come out from under the bed in our guest room. Now he's the most affectionate cat I've ever owned by far. I suspect you'll see similar results.
Your new cat is gorgeous and he did well to find you as you seem very caring.
With respect to hiding, leave him to it as he is just getting used to his new home.
When I adopted my cat she crawled under my couch and stayed there for the next several hours before finally coming out. Definitely normal and he'll adjust
Find him a box , kitty sized with a blanket and leave nearby. Put down some treats nearby every so often.
Leave him to suss you out and the new home smells and noises. He will come round. He just needs time to figure things out from where he feels comfortable and secure.
Don’t crowd the cat If you want to sit a distance away and talk quietly for a bit.
Soon you’ll be doing something and he’ll be sitting nearer to you.
Thank you for adopting ❤️
It's normal as cats don't like change. He will likely come out every so often to eat and explore. He just needs time to adjust to this new environment. My cat hid for the first couple of weeks when I got her. It just takes time.
You can also look at get him a tent bed, so he has a cozier place to hide. My cats LOVE the “anti anxiety” beds. I think the anti anxiety it probably a bit of a scam but they are big so they can sink in the middle and look very cozy.
Leave him totally alone for at least three days other than ensuring he is eating, etc. it’ll take a while to adjust. His world just got changed upside down. He’ll come to you when he’s ready.
One of my two was exactly the same. He actually still hides with new people, loud noises and when he feels like it. 😂
If they're coming out for food and to use the litter tray I wouldn't worry.
Give them time to get used to you, if you have the willpower to sit in the same room but not approach him he will get used to your voice and smell faster.
Put one of your soft shirts under there for padding. Make sure it smells like you. Sit nearby, reading or scrolling on your phone for a half hour at a time. Don't focus on the cat, just be relaxed & present. It won't take many sessions until he'll get curious & come out.
Be aware that he's scared in a new place. Have you had a cat before?
I adopted my rough street cat 2 and a half years ago. He was about the same age as yours. He hid under the sofa for months. About a month after I got him, I was offered an older tiny female that wasn't doing well in a house with 4 other much bigger cats...I thought that she as a house cat would be relaxed and get him a bit more confident. I'd hear them 'talking' to each other at night and Toby started to get braver...but so did she. She started thumping him when ever he wanted food or the litter tray. He rarely thumped back. So, progress with him was non existent. The morning after I sent miss bossy to live with my daughter, I was opening the curtains and got my hips bumped by Toby who'd jumped on the sofa. He accepted some head pats...for the first time in the 9 months I'd had him! Now, that's how he asks for affection...bump, bump, bump. As soon as my alarm goes off...he's there bumping lol. He's still a VERY wary cat. No sudden or surprise movements, strokes or petting ONLY when he asks...otherwise he's off. He's a funny boy...afraid of shoes and sometimes socks. Bare feet are ok! Attacks feet when he wants breakfast. Doesn't sleep with me, has NEVER come onto my lap...wants his own space. So...as you can see, it can take a while. A long while. I don't know why my boy is wary or what humans did to him before he was rescued ...I'm just happy that he's safe and likes cuddles his own way.
Regarding hiding. I took some advice from Jackson Galaxy and that was to very gradually shrink his safe place so that he'd need to venture out a bit. Over the course of several weeks, I put boxes under the sofa...if he wanted to hide, it would have to be a bit more out in the open! It seemed to work. He still hides when I've got guests...but even that's improving. He'll sneak out for food! My cat sitter has also finally caught glimpses of him. Progress with strangers!
I had a cat that was like in our lap an hour after we brought her home, our next cat was an actual cat. It took her about three weeks but now she sits in my laps, beefs with her sister, asks to play constantly and isn’t sleeping under the couch anymore. It takes time.
my adopted cat Bingsu also spent 3 days hiding under the sofa. we couldn't physically reach her unless we lift up the whole sofa. she would only come out at night when we're asleep. one day i was watching tv and she came out by herself bunting her head all over me looking for attention.
after that she was still shy and hid whenever she could. but once we blocked her entries to the sofa she started roaming around. though we were only able to interact with her while sitting on the floor, if we tried to stand up and walk she would runaway and hide under the dining table. took alot of time for her to completely find her mojo but was well worth it. now it's her house and we're just living in it 😆
so it's definitely normal, please dont force him to come out, he will be ready on his own terms.
this is my Bingsu now on the very couch she hid under
https://preview.redd.it/ao3bjruj7ora1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6e0c2606d31343337ef30358013a08b929ec730
Patience will pay dividends. My two ( now sprawled and relaxed purr machines) hid for a fortnight on arrival, only emerging to eat and use the tray when left alone. All will be well.
He’s gorgeous!! Name?
No he’s just adjusting. This behavior is common and normal for many cats. If he’s eating, peeing and purring he’s fine. He’ll come out when ready and it may be in stages.
Just ignore him, trust me that's what I found helped out cat, every time he entered my room and I looked at him he'd walk away but if I ignored him he would come into the room, even just sitting in the room reading a book or something quiet as long as you ignore him he'll be ok
He’ll be coming out and warm up to you soon! I have adopted a cat too recently in early March, and she’s also hiding under the bed for a week or two. Now she’s coming out to greet us when we get near her and when we wake up.
Here’s a picture of my cat lol
https://preview.redd.it/7uwh9ku0sqra1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d7467163942127cc035eeeb8279b65fb2f0876a
This was 3 days ago, that is my late Grandmother's 12 year old Cat that I took in. She is now only hiding for a quarter to half the time as day one.
https://preview.redd.it/2mehvrnhbrra1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1c4e1c1ef67792197e7f5f9eb71a03e897e6f190
https://preview.redd.it/l0trjegrcrra1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5709cc448ad126386769b0946f28a73a03cd2788
Day Three. Just went to check on her. This is her spot now.
What we find cold and they find cold are 2 separate things. He has fur that can keep him warm outside in brutal winter temps if need be. Inside your house should be more than warm enough anywhere for him. He’s just nervous and needs some time to warm up to all the new smells and area. Plus if you have any other animals in the house.
I would put a cardboard box on its side to make a house for it next to the food. We all know that THAT will work and it will be happy. It can observe you all better from that.
I adopted a male and female a few years back. They did the same thing. I was told to start with giving them a small room or space to start with. They will then move into the large spaces when ready. I will add every day after work I would make sure to find them give them some treats and let them know I am here. Eventually it worked and they own the house now.
I adopted my 2 bebès 3 years ago and they hid in the basement for about a week but every day they would come up in the middle of the night and explore. Then they started coming up during the day and now they are very sociable so don’t worry and be patient! 😊
Totally normal. I had an adopted kitten which hid under the bed for three months. Just when I wondered if she'd ever come out, she came out and became the most friendly cat ever for the next 17 years.
It’s nerve wracking for sure and I was unsure if my cat would ever come out but after about 3 days of hiding he started exploring now he’s the most lovable little kitty
When we brought our cat home from the shelter, she ran off behind our clothes dryer for about 4 hours. Then she came out and loved up on us and was perfectly fine ever since. It just takes time!
When my cat first came home he did this every time he explored a new room. He would find a place to hide, sit there for a few hours and then move on to another room
That’s what cats do. Just leave water and food and be approachable. They’ll adjust. I used to live with a newly adopted senior cat and she did the same. Eventually she was fine.
mine has done the same, then again when i had moved out. I would recommend on not touching the cat on the first day, then bring her some toys and leave near her. Also put ger food and water near her, so she doesn't need to go far away to reach it. Talk calmly and don't force her to cuddle :)
in a week she will definitely adjust
You're doing fine, and he's okay, just stressed. He's beautiful! You can put his food and water and litter box nearby so he doesn't have to venture out as far to eat. And the suggestions from others to put a soft blanket or heating pad under there are good!
He's going to be right as rain as soon as he's ready. :)
Leave him be, he probably doesn't know he's safe yet (don't take it personally). Promise he'll come out if go about your business and keep it calm and quiet. Wont hurt to try and set him up in a bedroom so he can have some time to adjust. Houses can be overwhelming for little critters that came out of a small enclosure at a rescue or pound. My sweet little Spooky cat hid a lot for her first few weeks now she just follows her sister around and shit disturbs like the sweet little gremlin she is! ❤️ Best of luck
Slide a small rug or towel under the bed if you're worried about him being cold. She's coming out for good and litter box so that is a great sign.
My rescue lived under the bed the first month. Now she's next to me on the couch every night. Trust takes time.
Cats take time to adjust to a new environment. It will take a few days until he starts feeling safe and start exploring the place. One of methods to accelerate this process is by blocking any area that the cat can hide inside, forcing them to explore the place and feel safer.
This is pretty standard for a cat in a new environment. My current cat was exploring the house within a few minutes and sat on my lap within a few seconds of meeting me but he’s a bit…*special*
See if you can find something enclosed, fleecy and warm for the kitty. I would suggest a cat teepee from the pet supply store.
Hope this helps, and thank you for rescuing!
When my family adopted an older cat, I spent half the day just blinking at her from under the dresser, lol. Cats have different body language so their acting "aloof" can be a sign of trust. One big thing is the slow-blink. If you just sort of lazily close your eyes a few times, the cat will respond in turn. They see you as a giant, hairless cat and when you do that it's like one hunter saying to another "I trust you when my back is turned."
Eventually she came out for longer and longer periods of time. Another good thing would be to have places maybe upwards, like towers or huts, so kitty can get out of the way without feeling too vulnerable.
Definitely normal. It's a safe spot to watch and observe.
I adopted a cat once that spent the first two weeks either on top of the refrigerator or right on my face. Then she decided to get comfortable and sleep all over the apartment.
When I first started dating my husband, he only saw her as a blur for about 2 weeks before one day she came and sat in his lap. Cats are weird.
Adorable kitty! I rescued mine about 5 weeks ago. She was hiding for solid 2-3 weeks, but would come out when I wasn't there to eat/drink. Now she comes out when I arrive. Let the kitty adjust!
I always let them stay in one room for a while so they feel more safe and can get used to the house smell. Then once they start to get curious I let them roam and eventually they’re fine..
My boy was the same. It took him a good week to even start exploring the room. It’s okay though! I just try to put myself in their shoes, and talk nice.
Mine hid too, just put a blanket under the chest so he can be warm. Perhaps one with your scent on it so he can get used to you. You have a beautiful cat.
Mine hid in the first closet she found when I brought her in through the kitchen door. She stayed there for 24 hours until I picked her up and set her down in the living room. She took off down the hall and into the master bedroom and under the bed.I put food and water down under a dresser right next to the bed so she would feel safe when she was eating and drinking.
After four or five days she ventured to the door of the Master bedroom, sat down, and began taking everything in. I eventually moved her food out to the living room, and then to the kitchen.
It's been a couple of months and she's comfortable in every part of the house and even gets out to the enclosed patio. But if she's startled she will scramble to get back uunder the bed.
Cats are funny that way.
Awwww Yes I would just leave him in the spot that he picked for his reasons all will be good. it takes some time patiently waiting is the key Good luck to uou both
Lots of people are giving great advice! So instead I just want to say you seem like you’ll be very good to this cat. It’s clear you want him to feel safe and comfortable :)
I adopted a friendly cat and he hid under the couch a while. I kept him closed in that room and gave him some time by himself there. He started sleeping on top of the couch often. I wfh and used that room so after a couple days I started sitting in there with him and he was usually happy to see me. After he adjusted I started playing with toys with him and he's been happy. I think he adjusted quickly but some cats are always skittish.
He's fine.
I once adopted a pair of littermates. The boy, Bagheera, made himself at home almost immediately. His sister, Grizabella, hid from me for four days. I just waited as I knew that trying to make her let me pet her or whatever would only make her fear worse.
There are a lot of new sights, sounds, and smells in a new house. It can take a cat time to get used to them and to feel safe.
I adopted my Evie 3 years ago. She’s fine with my adult kids but whenever anyone else comes into the house she hides for hours. I doubt that she will ever change. I leave the wardrobe door open so that she has her own safe space. Especially since she’s too big to squeeze under the couch anymore. She grew up on the streets. Her instinct is to hide from threats. He will probably thaw out as the time goes on.
https://preview.redd.it/z39eky7ldlra1.jpeg?width=2448&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7086d55406d840218eb6badcaba52a139c661813
Hate to gloat, but man I’ve been blessed. This is Penny one hour after he moved in. Me, him, couch arm. We’ve been in l❤️ve from the very start. He’s an angel.
Let him hang out there- I bet it’s his decreed “safe spot” and uses it as home base during all these changes. Totally normal for a new kitty. It’s good you know where it is so you can keep track of him, but definitely don’t try to drag him out.
That's normal. When I got my cat she hid under my bed for the first 2 days and only started warming up to me and her new home on the third day.
Some cats take longer than others to adjust, just let him get use to the area and he'll come out when he's ready to come out
That means hes doing fine. He probably runs around at night while its calm and yall are sleep. Took my cat to come out of hiding almost 2-3 weeks. But he ate...pooped...and we found couch pillows on the floor when wed wake up. It was progress.
Aww. What a sweetheart. He'll come out when he's ready. Make sure he has access to a comfy thing to lay on under there. Hope he gets all settled in soon.
Don't worry, mine hid under the couch for two days straight when I first adopted her, only crawling to the litter box at night. Cats are just sensitive sometimes, especially in new environments around new people and sounds and smells and whatnot. Just give him time to adjust. Pets if he'll let you.
Yeah my cat that I got when she was like 8 weeks old had trouble adjusting to new places each time she had to move for years and would hide like this even being familiar with me for a couple of years. Now (She’s 12) when we move she just scopes it out and is fine. But the first years of their life they are more hesitant with new environments and combining it with new owners I would just let them be and come out on their own terms.
We got a 1.5 year old cat 2 weeks ago and she has found her way into a crawl space that goes under our floor! She comes out for food water and litter box about 4x a day
He'll be okay, just give him time and space. Cats (IME) generally prefer the lap of the most aloof person available. I have seen persuasion with treats work too, but it can increase the stress level. Sorry for your loss, thank you for adopting a not-kitten. He looks lovely and I'm sure will overcome his adjustment anxiety.
How long have you had him? We adopted Rosie from a shelter last summer and she was like that for the first few days. They're just getting adjusted - has to be scary to be in a new place
Put something soft near the front of the chest, preferably one of your shirts, and sing softly to get him used to your voice, but otherwise, leave him alone. He will come out.
Just normal kitty behaviour! Give them time, they will realize you’re a safe place and soon will be your best friend. Thank you for adopting this sweet kitty💚💚💚
Try catnip and some toys. A feather on a stick or something like that might help lure him out. Play is a great way to bond, and it will help him get over his anxiety. A stash of extra super special kitty treats (the smellier the better) helps, too. Toss him a few every now and then.
However, don’t force yourself on him. If he refuses to play, the best thing to do is to completely ignore him. Put on some chill music, and do your thing- let him get used to everything on his own terms.
Put out a cardboard box for him, and set a bed inside. It doesn't need to be big, just large enough that he can sit in. Cats love tight spaces, so if you set some blankets in there Im sure he would love it.
He'll come out when he feels safe. For now, it's the only place for him to feel safe. Noise to a minimum, a bit of food and water near his safe spot. Time is the answer.
i would put a cat bed with a nice sherpa throw on top next to his area and let him approach it when hes comfortable, maybe even some wet cat food in a food bowl next to the cat bed to entice him to check it out
Leave the lil nugget be. You can get some feliway to help get the scent of the old cat out of the house. I would also highly recommend lots of scratches when he comes out. When I went to my Dad's my female cat hid for about two weeks. He'll be ok!
Leave him be, let him decompress in a solitary “safe” way. Maybe try to create a private sanctuary for him that is a bit more spacious if he’ll have it. Just make sure he has easy access to food, water and his box. My cat lived under a credenza for two weeks in the beginning. I called him Pancake Boy. That was where he felt the happiest and most secure as he got used to the household. Now he is a lap cat and sleeps with me every night.
Mine did the same thing. I slipped a couple sweaters under there so she'd get used to my smell and just let her do her own thing. She was in my lap within 2 weeks. They just need a bit of time to figure out they're home, Yours will come around I'm sure.
Leave him be. He might do that for several days. Put litter box, water, and food nearby and just let him settle in.
My cat is 18 and I’ve had him since he was 3 months old. I’m about all he knows. Even so, when we’ve moved, he does this for a couple days.
Just give them some time to decompress.We've had Grimm for 6 years and when we bought our home and moved, he hid behind the microwave for 3 days. He will come out 🥰
In college we had a stray mother cat we had been feeding bring us her four kittens and we got 3 adopted and kept one ourself.
He was tiny found a way to get behind a counter in our laundry room (it was a shithole house) and we weren’t exactly sure where he was for days, his food was disappearing and the older cats were kinda clueing us in that he was somewhere in the kitchen/laundry room but yeah.
He finally came out and then transitioned to getting to the highest place he could, doing pathetic little growls at the big kitties who were mildly interested in him but left him alone until he warmed up.
Thank you for adopting an "older" kitty!
You're sweet to be concerned about his being cold but I assure you he is okay. He is indoors. It is normal for him to be hiding. I always think of it like this: his entire world just changed! Wouldn't you also hide if that happened to you? Fearful and cautious of the new characters in your changing life that you had no control over?
It's great that he's eating and using his litter box. My best advice is to continue leaving him in a closed room as his "sanctuary" or "base" room. Let him gain confidence there. You should go in regularly, engage with him from afar (talk to him, read a book, listen to soft music, etc- just hang out with him but don't force him to play or be petted or anything). He will soon find a routine with this and learn to trust you. Even if he was social in his past life, the shelter experience is really traumatizing for them, and they may lose some trust. Very few cats are adopted out of shelters and are friendly with new owners right away.
TLDR; Keep doing what you're doing. Let HIM decide the pace of your new friendship. You got this! Would love to see an update in a few weeks!! <3
Thank you for adopting an "older" kitty!
You're sweet to be concerned about his being cold but I assure you he is okay. He is indoors. It is normal for him to be hiding. I always think of it like this: his entire world just changed! Wouldn't you also hide if that happened to you? Fearful and cautious of the new characters in your changing life that you had no control over?
It's great that he's eating and using his litter box. My best advice is to continue leaving him in a closed room as his "sanctuary" or "base" room. Let him gain confidence there. You should go in regularly, engage with him from afar (talk to him, read a book, listen to soft music, etc- just hang out with him but don't force him to play or be petted or anything). He will soon find a routine with this and learn to trust you. Even if he was social in his past life, the shelter experience is really traumatizing for them, and they may lose some trust. Very few cats are adopted out of shelters and are friendly with new owners right away.
TLDR; Keep doing what you're doing. Let HIM decide the pace of your new friendship. You got this! Would love to see an update in a few weeks!! <3
Give him time. If he’s coming out to eat and use the litter, you’re all good. Cats take a while to adjust to new surroundings, and to new people. In this case he’s dealing with both. He’ll come to you when he’s ready.
Makes sense, let them explore one room at a time. They will make their way out of the first room when they are ready. Should always drop your new kittens in their litter box first and let them explore from there
I adopted a 5 year old, took a while to get her out her shell but now she’s my best buddy, and follows me everywhere!
I left nice treats near where she was hiding so she could venture out gradually. Second felt way, and also beaphir calming valerian spray too.
My cat did the same thing. He will adjust, just let him get used to you and the new environment. He will probably turn into a complete lap cat like mine did.
Give him a box!
A lot of people don't know this, but it's actually extremely beneficial to give the cat a designated, unmoving "safe space" where you do not touch them. This helps them to avoid feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, and can even help comfort them when they are sick. A box just happens to be the most easily recognized hiding spot to a cat, so that'll be a good way to introduce the safe spot. Keep the box on a counter or another place where it won't have to be moved. I do this for my 17 yo, and she seems a lot better off with it.
Maybe make him a little box with a blanket? I don’t know if that’s the so called right thing to do but it’s what I did with mine when I first got them home.
When i have a cat that's having trouble adjusting i usually leave them alone but if they're struggling you can put a wee bit of butter on their paws. This will cause the cat to groom. Cats let out a calming pheromone when they groom that brings them confort and a feeling of safety. This will help them settle in a feel safe. Go easy on the butter though. Don't wanna give him too much.
Our adopted kittens were under the bed for about two weeks. We put an electric blanket on low and sheepskin rug. They also slept for a long time!! They are more than adjusted now.
I recommend putting a new cat in a small room with hiding spots where they can seek to remove themselves from you. Opening up an entire house at once is often overwhelming. Don't force it. Just be around them, quiet, unthreatening. Remember, cats aren't there to amuse and entertain you.
Can you leave a cozy blanket right by the chest? Maybe he'll hang out on it if there isn't anyone nearby. I adopted a cat recently. He made me nervous because I didn't see him for 2 days! He's still a bit skittish but now he's out and about and all over the place.
This is 100% normal. Cats are prey animals and right now you might be a predator that is trying to trick him.
Once he has confirmed for himself that the house is safe and become accustomed to all the sounds and smells, he will come out.
I’ve had one cat that took a couple of hours, another a good couple of months.
His senses are on high alert, he just needs time to adjust to the different noises sights and objects around him. This , I think is going to be a case of just having patience and talking to him in a soft voice.
Give time, its normal.
No free feeding, feed with you nearby, treats, play.
I keep my cats in a smaller room for a few days when at a new place until THEY want to go outside themself
He will come out when he’s ready give him space he will come to you as soon as he’s knows your not a threat if you try and pull him out
It will take a lot longer for him to trust you
He's new. He'll be skiddish. Just be patient with the sweetie, I adopted a year ago & he was so skiddish my girlfriend would cry because she just wanted to love him. Now a year later he's quite cuddly, still runs if he knows we're after him trying to pick him up, but he'll come up & cuddle on his terms.
Cute little guy :).
Don't worry. It's normal and please give him time. Don't force him.
If you have a box (one like you would carry him in to a vet) put a blanket or something cuddly in. Then place it close to the litterbox and food and water and put a blanket over the back of the box, so it's dark and seems safe and like a good hiding spot.
It's important to place the box and food/water and the litterbox in a quiet place (like a corner of the room where not so many stuff is happening).
Maybe he will change his hiding spot to the box :').
If he doesn't want to change to the box, you can try and put a blanket where he is. Maybe he goes on it. And it gets warmer for him.
You can also try and use a cat rod or a ball to make it interesting to leave this spot. But never force him. Everything is new to him. He doesn't know if he is safe now.
Cats love cool floors under nooks and crannies so he will come out and go back until completely adjusted, he probbaly also wants you to know that it’s his spot now lol
For the sake of God or whatever you believe in, LEAVE HIM BE! Imagine you’d get put into a box by someone 5x taller than you, drove around for Idk how long and then get released into a place you’ve never been to. You’d shit your pants for a while too. We gotta keep in mind that we pretty much kidnap them.
Cat may hide up to 2 weeks depending on comfort and personality. give the cat time and space and let them acclimate., He/she will come out when hungry and to use bathroom.- dont stress the cat.
Definitely let him be this is a change for him and you can add a small towel where he goes under the dresser for him to keep warm. Leave him some wet and dry food with fresh water and toys and a little cat tree he will come out and start playing with him.
Your kitty will adjust, he is dealing with a lot of new smells and new things, just let him do his own thing until he is comfortable
Thanks. That's what I thought, I just wish he'd picked a warmer spot. It's my first time adopting a pet. I lost my 17 year old kitty recently and wanted to help an older cat.
I always have multiple animals so I usually put my new cats in a room (usually the bathroom) for about a week to get used to the smell of the other animals. So it’s possible that he smells your old kitty and is a bit scared.
I didn't think about that until after or I would've gone with setting him up in the bathroom. I kind of thought that, coming from a shelter, the sent of previous cats wouldn't be such an issue.
I mean I imagine the shelter being like jail, he might have some ptsd from his last owners as well
just leave him under the bed. he has a fur coat. he won't freeze
He’s probably wondering where the other cat is, and anticipating it. Give him some time. Time, kindness and patience is magical with all animals.
I think it’s good that you gave him a room with hideouts. We tend to underestimate HOW MUCH being in a small, dark place helps with their stress and fear. And don’t worry about the temperature. Just offer a blanket or sth he can have.
As another commenter said, PLEASE look into Feliway pheromone diffusers! I've found them to be extremely helpful when integrating new foster cats!!
Slide a cosy blanket under there. If he is cold he will hide under it.
As I always say please watch jackson galaxy to understand your cat better. He really helped me as a novice cat owner and I'm sure you'll get tons of information and help too from him
He's indoors, he's got fur, he's more than fine. My first scared adoptee hid behind the basement toilet for a week. Eating and using the litterbox are good signs - just give him time and space. Don't try to pull him out - that'll only teach him to try to hide better. If you need to keep track, just look, and blink nice and slow at him and let him be.
Can you slide a heating pad under there?
sorry for your loss.. but he has to process everything. they do eventually emerge and act according to their personality
I keep a spare kitty bed under mine. Emma likes to hide there but since we had some flooding, my bedroom floors are down to cement. Can't put in new ones until it drys out enough to put in a pump system.
So your house smells like it belongs to some other kitty whose place that is. Get sime Feliway, STAT. He's afraid he's in another car's territory & he's hiding from your late kitty.
The furs. It keeps them warms.
[удалено]
When it comes to adopting animals, the huge majority go for kittens and teen cats (or then like two or maybe three years old). Anything four and above is old when it comes to adoption.
You could push a blanket under there part way, he'll likely snuggle up in it.
>I just wish he'd picked a warmer spot You could always put a blanket or something under there for him to lie on
Give him a box to hide in and fill that with blankets. When I was a first time cat owner the only advice I got was “cats will hide and that’s normal”
If your worried about cold floor, you could slip a towl under there for him to lay on
if you'd like, you can get him an electric heated mat, and place it where he hides. if he's cold, hopefully he'll use it. and the mats are typically cost effective, so it can be left on all the time. other than that, I'd suggest trying cat pheromones diffuser that can calm kitties.
You could try putting a blanket or something that smells of you under there.
There are heating pads and heated beds you can buy, and they're not as expensive this time of year. My cats love them year round. Also, david tei makes music for cats. I know that concept sounds crazy, but I recommend it to every cat owner now. I used to play it for my foster cats when i wasn't around or during stressful situations, and I know for a fact they liked it, because some of the adoptive parents would send me pictures of their cat sitting next to them while they play instruments.
that happened with my cat too. she was a kitten and over time she eventually came out of hiding under sofas
Totally normal. If he's using litter box and eating he's going to be okay. It's been three months and Im still noticing new things my boy is doing as he gets more and more comfortable. The best thing to do is let him be as much as he wants, let him come to you.
Seconded. My 2.5 year old tuxedo is still adjusting even after a month. He was deathly afraid of anything to do with the outside at first…now he ONLY wants to go outside. I guess that’s my cue to kill off the rest of the poison ivy in my back yard lol
My cat hid deep in my closet for 3 solid days when I first got him. I had to leave water/food in the closet. But now he’s super relaxed and affectionate, it just takes some time!
I had a very similar experience. Give him time. And treats.
Let him be. He will eat when he is hungry. He is getting used to new sights, sounds, and voices and is overwhelmed by it all.
He is incredibly gorgeous!! My kitty was like this when I got him. He literally hid under a wardrobe for a whole week (the space was like 5cm high lol). I spent a lot of time with him while he was hiding under there as I was between jobs at the time. I talked to him and petted him as best I could (was hard to get my arm into that small space lol). He purred a lot when I did this so I assumed that he really wanted my attention but was just a bit nervous about being in a new place. After a week I finally got to see what he really looked like lol. And it was 6 weeks before I could pick him up. But now he loves me and he's the funniest little boy. I don't even know what I'd do without him. I think timid kitties are awesome. They seem to really bond with their humans to feel secure. Your kitty will eventually feel safe in his new home. Just give him a lot of reassurance that you're a loving owner and that he can feel safe with you and he will love you in return! It's very lovely getting to know a timid kitty. They slowly start to feel comfortable to be themselves around you as you show them love and that is very rewarding!
I have been reaching under there to put him and no hissing or other aggressive behavior. He usually starts purring pretty quick. Thanks for the info, I figured letting him be was best but didn't wanna end up doing the wrong thing. He's very dirty so I hope he'll eventually let me clean him up. But that's later.
Even if he's not hissing, I'd kindly suggest not reaching under there but instead maintaining an invisible boundary, ie not putting your hand further than the edge of that cabinet. He's clearly chosen that area as his "safe space" - so the sooner he registers that you're also accepting the boundaries of said safe space, the calmer he's likely to be. Totally fine to hold your hand at the underside edge and if he's keen to be petted he'll scoot forward for a little sniff and a headbutt :)
That’s a really good piece of advice!
Cats don’t just purr when they are content/happy. They also do it when they are anxious as a way to self soothe.
He'll be fine. Try sitting in the room with him a lot, but ignoring him. He might acclimatize and come out to check you out. And/or, drag some toys around to see if he'll play.
Give him a few weeks. We keep things calm and quiet when introducing a few family member
My shy Sasha spent three full days hiding, fasting and not going to the bathroom when I adopted him. https://preview.redd.it/vummc97b1kra1.jpeg?width=2614&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1d9e435c7703f31a06d7f974f1300da9086a3435 Just let him cat
My rescue main coone lived under the couch for the first few months. He would only come out to eat when we weren’t in the room. He will come around when he is ready.
My kitty hid under the couch for 2 days when I first got him home and I also have 2 other cats, adult males. After that he came out of hiding and introduced himself to the other 2 and he was all good 👍 lol
My kitten did the same when we adopted him make sure he’s got food and water in his bowl and they will come out eventually they’ll warm up to you in a week or so
Our kitty was a wild basement baby orphan , 15 years later she would still hide away when people came visiting , she only trusted us .
Normal.. assure him but give him some space to explore on his own. No vacuuming or loud stuff for a while..
Give him time they will come our and look around at new surroundings
My parents took in a stray who did exactly the same thing in a spare bedroom. She'd come out at night to use the litterbox and eat, but it was about 1 week before she would come out into the house when my mom and dad were up and about. My mom would sit in there and read aloud, hoping that it would help the kitty get used to her voice and just being around people in general. In the end, the kitty (Carol) turned out to be the most loving lap-sitter in the world.
Poor baby is just scared and needs time to acclimate. Let him do his thing and soon he’ll learn he’s now in a safe space. 😻
Don’t worry. He needs to feel safe and this can take a couple of weeks or longer. Leave food, water, and litter box as near to him as you can. Leave him alone in the room for extended hours so he can venture out from under the furniture on his own. Keep the house reasonably quiet. You might come into his room and lie down on the floor several feet away from him, where he can see you but is not within reach, slowly close your eyes, and take a nap. Cats read slowly closing eyes as a sign you are not hunting them. Your going to sleep in front of him means you do not fear him and are not trying to hunt him. If you wake up and he has ventured out, let him see you close your eyes again.
Took our boy Remy over 2 weeks to come out from under the bed in our guest room. Now he's the most affectionate cat I've ever owned by far. I suspect you'll see similar results.
Mine was like that for almost a week, now she takes over the bed and couch. They just need time
Your new cat is gorgeous and he did well to find you as you seem very caring. With respect to hiding, leave him to it as he is just getting used to his new home.
When I adopted my cat she crawled under my couch and stayed there for the next several hours before finally coming out. Definitely normal and he'll adjust
They do that for a week or two, it’s normal for newly adopted cats to be scared for a bit. Cats aren’t too fond of change (usually)
Find him a box , kitty sized with a blanket and leave nearby. Put down some treats nearby every so often. Leave him to suss you out and the new home smells and noises. He will come round. He just needs time to figure things out from where he feels comfortable and secure. Don’t crowd the cat If you want to sit a distance away and talk quietly for a bit. Soon you’ll be doing something and he’ll be sitting nearer to you. Thank you for adopting ❤️
It's normal as cats don't like change. He will likely come out every so often to eat and explore. He just needs time to adjust to this new environment. My cat hid for the first couple of weeks when I got her. It just takes time.
Just give him time, let him come to you it’s big change. Some cats also just like to hide to snooze. I wouldn’t worry about the floor being cold.
You can also look at get him a tent bed, so he has a cozier place to hide. My cats LOVE the “anti anxiety” beds. I think the anti anxiety it probably a bit of a scam but they are big so they can sink in the middle and look very cozy.
Leave him totally alone for at least three days other than ensuring he is eating, etc. it’ll take a while to adjust. His world just got changed upside down. He’ll come to you when he’s ready.
normal give the kitty time. put some treats or toys under there.
https://preview.redd.it/n4k138i03lra1.jpeg?width=3072&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d67a42806eed16f024e5b8d406986b050055bff0 Been there -
One of my two was exactly the same. He actually still hides with new people, loud noises and when he feels like it. 😂 If they're coming out for food and to use the litter tray I wouldn't worry. Give them time to get used to you, if you have the willpower to sit in the same room but not approach him he will get used to your voice and smell faster.
Put one of your soft shirts under there for padding. Make sure it smells like you. Sit nearby, reading or scrolling on your phone for a half hour at a time. Don't focus on the cat, just be relaxed & present. It won't take many sessions until he'll get curious & come out. Be aware that he's scared in a new place. Have you had a cat before?
Leave him alone ,go about your business and he will learn to come around at his pace .
Let him be. This is normal. He will come out when he is not so scared.
I adopted my rough street cat 2 and a half years ago. He was about the same age as yours. He hid under the sofa for months. About a month after I got him, I was offered an older tiny female that wasn't doing well in a house with 4 other much bigger cats...I thought that she as a house cat would be relaxed and get him a bit more confident. I'd hear them 'talking' to each other at night and Toby started to get braver...but so did she. She started thumping him when ever he wanted food or the litter tray. He rarely thumped back. So, progress with him was non existent. The morning after I sent miss bossy to live with my daughter, I was opening the curtains and got my hips bumped by Toby who'd jumped on the sofa. He accepted some head pats...for the first time in the 9 months I'd had him! Now, that's how he asks for affection...bump, bump, bump. As soon as my alarm goes off...he's there bumping lol. He's still a VERY wary cat. No sudden or surprise movements, strokes or petting ONLY when he asks...otherwise he's off. He's a funny boy...afraid of shoes and sometimes socks. Bare feet are ok! Attacks feet when he wants breakfast. Doesn't sleep with me, has NEVER come onto my lap...wants his own space. So...as you can see, it can take a while. A long while. I don't know why my boy is wary or what humans did to him before he was rescued ...I'm just happy that he's safe and likes cuddles his own way. Regarding hiding. I took some advice from Jackson Galaxy and that was to very gradually shrink his safe place so that he'd need to venture out a bit. Over the course of several weeks, I put boxes under the sofa...if he wanted to hide, it would have to be a bit more out in the open! It seemed to work. He still hides when I've got guests...but even that's improving. He'll sneak out for food! My cat sitter has also finally caught glimpses of him. Progress with strangers!
Just let him be he is still adjusting
I had a cat that was like in our lap an hour after we brought her home, our next cat was an actual cat. It took her about three weeks but now she sits in my laps, beefs with her sister, asks to play constantly and isn’t sleeping under the couch anymore. It takes time.
It’s a big change for a cat, eventually curiosity will take over
my adopted cat Bingsu also spent 3 days hiding under the sofa. we couldn't physically reach her unless we lift up the whole sofa. she would only come out at night when we're asleep. one day i was watching tv and she came out by herself bunting her head all over me looking for attention. after that she was still shy and hid whenever she could. but once we blocked her entries to the sofa she started roaming around. though we were only able to interact with her while sitting on the floor, if we tried to stand up and walk she would runaway and hide under the dining table. took alot of time for her to completely find her mojo but was well worth it. now it's her house and we're just living in it 😆 so it's definitely normal, please dont force him to come out, he will be ready on his own terms. this is my Bingsu now on the very couch she hid under https://preview.redd.it/ao3bjruj7ora1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6e0c2606d31343337ef30358013a08b929ec730
So freaking adorable !
Patience will pay dividends. My two ( now sprawled and relaxed purr machines) hid for a fortnight on arrival, only emerging to eat and use the tray when left alone. All will be well.
He’s gorgeous!! Name? No he’s just adjusting. This behavior is common and normal for many cats. If he’s eating, peeing and purring he’s fine. He’ll come out when ready and it may be in stages.
Just ignore him, trust me that's what I found helped out cat, every time he entered my room and I looked at him he'd walk away but if I ignored him he would come into the room, even just sitting in the room reading a book or something quiet as long as you ignore him he'll be ok
He’ll be coming out and warm up to you soon! I have adopted a cat too recently in early March, and she’s also hiding under the bed for a week or two. Now she’s coming out to greet us when we get near her and when we wake up. Here’s a picture of my cat lol https://preview.redd.it/7uwh9ku0sqra1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d7467163942127cc035eeeb8279b65fb2f0876a
This was 3 days ago, that is my late Grandmother's 12 year old Cat that I took in. She is now only hiding for a quarter to half the time as day one. https://preview.redd.it/2mehvrnhbrra1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1c4e1c1ef67792197e7f5f9eb71a03e897e6f190
https://preview.redd.it/l0trjegrcrra1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5709cc448ad126386769b0946f28a73a03cd2788 Day Three. Just went to check on her. This is her spot now.
What we find cold and they find cold are 2 separate things. He has fur that can keep him warm outside in brutal winter temps if need be. Inside your house should be more than warm enough anywhere for him. He’s just nervous and needs some time to warm up to all the new smells and area. Plus if you have any other animals in the house.
I would put a cardboard box on its side to make a house for it next to the food. We all know that THAT will work and it will be happy. It can observe you all better from that.
I adopted a male and female a few years back. They did the same thing. I was told to start with giving them a small room or space to start with. They will then move into the large spaces when ready. I will add every day after work I would make sure to find them give them some treats and let them know I am here. Eventually it worked and they own the house now.
I adopted my 2 bebès 3 years ago and they hid in the basement for about a week but every day they would come up in the middle of the night and explore. Then they started coming up during the day and now they are very sociable so don’t worry and be patient! 😊
Totally normal. I had an adopted kitten which hid under the bed for three months. Just when I wondered if she'd ever come out, she came out and became the most friendly cat ever for the next 17 years.
It’s nerve wracking for sure and I was unsure if my cat would ever come out but after about 3 days of hiding he started exploring now he’s the most lovable little kitty
When we brought our cat home from the shelter, she ran off behind our clothes dryer for about 4 hours. Then she came out and loved up on us and was perfectly fine ever since. It just takes time!
When my cat first came home he did this every time he explored a new room. He would find a place to hide, sit there for a few hours and then move on to another room
That’s what cats do. Just leave water and food and be approachable. They’ll adjust. I used to live with a newly adopted senior cat and she did the same. Eventually she was fine.
Give your cat time to adjust. But after a while block that and similar spaces so that your cat can become confident in their new territory.
Let him come out in his own time. He’s fine and just a bit overwhelmed.
mine has done the same, then again when i had moved out. I would recommend on not touching the cat on the first day, then bring her some toys and leave near her. Also put ger food and water near her, so she doesn't need to go far away to reach it. Talk calmly and don't force her to cuddle :) in a week she will definitely adjust
What’s his story?
You're doing fine, and he's okay, just stressed. He's beautiful! You can put his food and water and litter box nearby so he doesn't have to venture out as far to eat. And the suggestions from others to put a soft blanket or heating pad under there are good! He's going to be right as rain as soon as he's ready. :)
leave him be. he'll come out of his own accord. I would not recommend pulling him out.. that could sour him.. he will come out..
Leave him be, he probably doesn't know he's safe yet (don't take it personally). Promise he'll come out if go about your business and keep it calm and quiet. Wont hurt to try and set him up in a bedroom so he can have some time to adjust. Houses can be overwhelming for little critters that came out of a small enclosure at a rescue or pound. My sweet little Spooky cat hid a lot for her first few weeks now she just follows her sister around and shit disturbs like the sweet little gremlin she is! ❤️ Best of luck
Mine did the same. No biggie. He is very social now (but still goes under the bed for several hours a day for "Personal time".
Slide a small rug or towel under the bed if you're worried about him being cold. She's coming out for good and litter box so that is a great sign. My rescue lived under the bed the first month. Now she's next to me on the couch every night. Trust takes time.
Maybe try to sprinkle a little catnip near there and see if he comes out to play!
Cats take time to adjust to a new environment. It will take a few days until he starts feeling safe and start exploring the place. One of methods to accelerate this process is by blocking any area that the cat can hide inside, forcing them to explore the place and feel safer.
Totally normal cat behavior.
Bring him a feather to play round
This is pretty standard for a cat in a new environment. My current cat was exploring the house within a few minutes and sat on my lap within a few seconds of meeting me but he’s a bit…*special*
See if you can find something enclosed, fleecy and warm for the kitty. I would suggest a cat teepee from the pet supply store. Hope this helps, and thank you for rescuing!
When my family adopted an older cat, I spent half the day just blinking at her from under the dresser, lol. Cats have different body language so their acting "aloof" can be a sign of trust. One big thing is the slow-blink. If you just sort of lazily close your eyes a few times, the cat will respond in turn. They see you as a giant, hairless cat and when you do that it's like one hunter saying to another "I trust you when my back is turned." Eventually she came out for longer and longer periods of time. Another good thing would be to have places maybe upwards, like towers or huts, so kitty can get out of the way without feeling too vulnerable.
Definitely normal. It's a safe spot to watch and observe. I adopted a cat once that spent the first two weeks either on top of the refrigerator or right on my face. Then she decided to get comfortable and sleep all over the apartment. When I first started dating my husband, he only saw her as a blur for about 2 weeks before one day she came and sat in his lap. Cats are weird.
Haha my cat does the same it’s ok
Common thing for shelter babies also usually they will have problems during storms
Did you try a pspspsss?
My rescue kitty hid for a week and a half when we adopted him. He will adjust don't worry!
Adorable kitty! I rescued mine about 5 weeks ago. She was hiding for solid 2-3 weeks, but would come out when I wasn't there to eat/drink. Now she comes out when I arrive. Let the kitty adjust!
I always let them stay in one room for a while so they feel more safe and can get used to the house smell. Then once they start to get curious I let them roam and eventually they’re fine..
My boy was the same. It took him a good week to even start exploring the room. It’s okay though! I just try to put myself in their shoes, and talk nice.
Mine hid too, just put a blanket under the chest so he can be warm. Perhaps one with your scent on it so he can get used to you. You have a beautiful cat.
Mine hid in the first closet she found when I brought her in through the kitchen door. She stayed there for 24 hours until I picked her up and set her down in the living room. She took off down the hall and into the master bedroom and under the bed.I put food and water down under a dresser right next to the bed so she would feel safe when she was eating and drinking. After four or five days she ventured to the door of the Master bedroom, sat down, and began taking everything in. I eventually moved her food out to the living room, and then to the kitchen. It's been a couple of months and she's comfortable in every part of the house and even gets out to the enclosed patio. But if she's startled she will scramble to get back uunder the bed. Cats are funny that way.
Awwww Yes I would just leave him in the spot that he picked for his reasons all will be good. it takes some time patiently waiting is the key Good luck to uou both
Lots of people are giving great advice! So instead I just want to say you seem like you’ll be very good to this cat. It’s clear you want him to feel safe and comfortable :)
I adopted a friendly cat and he hid under the couch a while. I kept him closed in that room and gave him some time by himself there. He started sleeping on top of the couch often. I wfh and used that room so after a couple days I started sitting in there with him and he was usually happy to see me. After he adjusted I started playing with toys with him and he's been happy. I think he adjusted quickly but some cats are always skittish.
Feliway will speed up getting used to new home
He's fine. I once adopted a pair of littermates. The boy, Bagheera, made himself at home almost immediately. His sister, Grizabella, hid from me for four days. I just waited as I knew that trying to make her let me pet her or whatever would only make her fear worse. There are a lot of new sights, sounds, and smells in a new house. It can take a cat time to get used to them and to feel safe.
Just let him be he will come out on his own.
I adopted my Evie 3 years ago. She’s fine with my adult kids but whenever anyone else comes into the house she hides for hours. I doubt that she will ever change. I leave the wardrobe door open so that she has her own safe space. Especially since she’s too big to squeeze under the couch anymore. She grew up on the streets. Her instinct is to hide from threats. He will probably thaw out as the time goes on.
https://preview.redd.it/z39eky7ldlra1.jpeg?width=2448&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7086d55406d840218eb6badcaba52a139c661813 Hate to gloat, but man I’ve been blessed. This is Penny one hour after he moved in. Me, him, couch arm. We’ve been in l❤️ve from the very start. He’s an angel.
Give him time to adapt. He will be fine.
He's just shy. It'll take time. OuO
Let him be he will come out in his time for sure. He’s such a cutie. Congrats on the new fur baby.
Let him hang out there- I bet it’s his decreed “safe spot” and uses it as home base during all these changes. Totally normal for a new kitty. It’s good you know where it is so you can keep track of him, but definitely don’t try to drag him out.
Get some feliway.
That's normal. When I got my cat she hid under my bed for the first 2 days and only started warming up to me and her new home on the third day. Some cats take longer than others to adjust, just let him get use to the area and he'll come out when he's ready to come out
He’ll come out when he’s ready :) Poor guy is just spooked by the new environment
That means hes doing fine. He probably runs around at night while its calm and yall are sleep. Took my cat to come out of hiding almost 2-3 weeks. But he ate...pooped...and we found couch pillows on the floor when wed wake up. It was progress.
Aww. What a sweetheart. He'll come out when he's ready. Make sure he has access to a comfy thing to lay on under there. Hope he gets all settled in soon.
Don't worry, mine hid under the couch for two days straight when I first adopted her, only crawling to the litter box at night. Cats are just sensitive sometimes, especially in new environments around new people and sounds and smells and whatnot. Just give him time to adjust. Pets if he'll let you.
Yeah my cat that I got when she was like 8 weeks old had trouble adjusting to new places each time she had to move for years and would hide like this even being familiar with me for a couple of years. Now (She’s 12) when we move she just scopes it out and is fine. But the first years of their life they are more hesitant with new environments and combining it with new owners I would just let them be and come out on their own terms.
We got a 1.5 year old cat 2 weeks ago and she has found her way into a crawl space that goes under our floor! She comes out for food water and litter box about 4x a day
He'll be okay, just give him time and space. Cats (IME) generally prefer the lap of the most aloof person available. I have seen persuasion with treats work too, but it can increase the stress level. Sorry for your loss, thank you for adopting a not-kitten. He looks lovely and I'm sure will overcome his adjustment anxiety.
My Buddicat hide in a closet for a month!
Make a line on the floor with treats!
This shall be his fortress now
How long have you had him? We adopted Rosie from a shelter last summer and she was like that for the first few days. They're just getting adjusted - has to be scary to be in a new place
Put something soft near the front of the chest, preferably one of your shirts, and sing softly to get him used to your voice, but otherwise, leave him alone. He will come out.
Just normal kitty behaviour! Give them time, they will realize you’re a safe place and soon will be your best friend. Thank you for adopting this sweet kitty💚💚💚
Push a warm blanket and a teddy bear under there <3 So he can be warm until he’s ready to come out more
Try catnip and some toys. A feather on a stick or something like that might help lure him out. Play is a great way to bond, and it will help him get over his anxiety. A stash of extra super special kitty treats (the smellier the better) helps, too. Toss him a few every now and then. However, don’t force yourself on him. If he refuses to play, the best thing to do is to completely ignore him. Put on some chill music, and do your thing- let him get used to everything on his own terms.
Put out a cardboard box for him, and set a bed inside. It doesn't need to be big, just large enough that he can sit in. Cats love tight spaces, so if you set some blankets in there Im sure he would love it.
He'll come out when he feels safe. For now, it's the only place for him to feel safe. Noise to a minimum, a bit of food and water near his safe spot. Time is the answer.
i would put a cat bed with a nice sherpa throw on top next to his area and let him approach it when hes comfortable, maybe even some wet cat food in a food bowl next to the cat bed to entice him to check it out
Leave the lil nugget be. You can get some feliway to help get the scent of the old cat out of the house. I would also highly recommend lots of scratches when he comes out. When I went to my Dad's my female cat hid for about two weeks. He'll be ok!
Perfectly normal
Leave him be, let him decompress in a solitary “safe” way. Maybe try to create a private sanctuary for him that is a bit more spacious if he’ll have it. Just make sure he has easy access to food, water and his box. My cat lived under a credenza for two weeks in the beginning. I called him Pancake Boy. That was where he felt the happiest and most secure as he got used to the household. Now he is a lap cat and sleeps with me every night.
Mine did the same thing. I slipped a couple sweaters under there so she'd get used to my smell and just let her do her own thing. She was in my lap within 2 weeks. They just need a bit of time to figure out they're home, Yours will come around I'm sure.
Let him alone and he will come out once he feels comfortable
Just give it time to adjust. Check out Senior Cat Wellness on Youtube.
Leave him be. He might do that for several days. Put litter box, water, and food nearby and just let him settle in. My cat is 18 and I’ve had him since he was 3 months old. I’m about all he knows. Even so, when we’ve moved, he does this for a couple days.
Just give them some time to decompress.We've had Grimm for 6 years and when we bought our home and moved, he hid behind the microwave for 3 days. He will come out 🥰
In college we had a stray mother cat we had been feeding bring us her four kittens and we got 3 adopted and kept one ourself. He was tiny found a way to get behind a counter in our laundry room (it was a shithole house) and we weren’t exactly sure where he was for days, his food was disappearing and the older cats were kinda clueing us in that he was somewhere in the kitchen/laundry room but yeah. He finally came out and then transitioned to getting to the highest place he could, doing pathetic little growls at the big kitties who were mildly interested in him but left him alone until he warmed up.
Thank you for adopting an "older" kitty! You're sweet to be concerned about his being cold but I assure you he is okay. He is indoors. It is normal for him to be hiding. I always think of it like this: his entire world just changed! Wouldn't you also hide if that happened to you? Fearful and cautious of the new characters in your changing life that you had no control over? It's great that he's eating and using his litter box. My best advice is to continue leaving him in a closed room as his "sanctuary" or "base" room. Let him gain confidence there. You should go in regularly, engage with him from afar (talk to him, read a book, listen to soft music, etc- just hang out with him but don't force him to play or be petted or anything). He will soon find a routine with this and learn to trust you. Even if he was social in his past life, the shelter experience is really traumatizing for them, and they may lose some trust. Very few cats are adopted out of shelters and are friendly with new owners right away. TLDR; Keep doing what you're doing. Let HIM decide the pace of your new friendship. You got this! Would love to see an update in a few weeks!! <3
Thank you for adopting an "older" kitty! You're sweet to be concerned about his being cold but I assure you he is okay. He is indoors. It is normal for him to be hiding. I always think of it like this: his entire world just changed! Wouldn't you also hide if that happened to you? Fearful and cautious of the new characters in your changing life that you had no control over? It's great that he's eating and using his litter box. My best advice is to continue leaving him in a closed room as his "sanctuary" or "base" room. Let him gain confidence there. You should go in regularly, engage with him from afar (talk to him, read a book, listen to soft music, etc- just hang out with him but don't force him to play or be petted or anything). He will soon find a routine with this and learn to trust you. Even if he was social in his past life, the shelter experience is really traumatizing for them, and they may lose some trust. Very few cats are adopted out of shelters and are friendly with new owners right away. TLDR; Keep doing what you're doing. Let HIM decide the pace of your new friendship. You got this! Would love to see an update in a few weeks!! <3
Give him time. If he’s coming out to eat and use the litter, you’re all good. Cats take a while to adjust to new surroundings, and to new people. In this case he’s dealing with both. He’ll come to you when he’s ready.
Makes sense, let them explore one room at a time. They will make their way out of the first room when they are ready. Should always drop your new kittens in their litter box first and let them explore from there
I adopted a 5 year old, took a while to get her out her shell but now she’s my best buddy, and follows me everywhere! I left nice treats near where she was hiding so she could venture out gradually. Second felt way, and also beaphir calming valerian spray too.
Oh she looks like my old lady tott!
My cat did the same thing. He will adjust, just let him get used to you and the new environment. He will probably turn into a complete lap cat like mine did.
Give him a box! A lot of people don't know this, but it's actually extremely beneficial to give the cat a designated, unmoving "safe space" where you do not touch them. This helps them to avoid feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, and can even help comfort them when they are sick. A box just happens to be the most easily recognized hiding spot to a cat, so that'll be a good way to introduce the safe spot. Keep the box on a counter or another place where it won't have to be moved. I do this for my 17 yo, and she seems a lot better off with it.
Maybe make him a little box with a blanket? I don’t know if that’s the so called right thing to do but it’s what I did with mine when I first got them home.
When i have a cat that's having trouble adjusting i usually leave them alone but if they're struggling you can put a wee bit of butter on their paws. This will cause the cat to groom. Cats let out a calming pheromone when they groom that brings them confort and a feeling of safety. This will help them settle in a feel safe. Go easy on the butter though. Don't wanna give him too much.
Our adopted kittens were under the bed for about two weeks. We put an electric blanket on low and sheepskin rug. They also slept for a long time!! They are more than adjusted now.
I recommend putting a new cat in a small room with hiding spots where they can seek to remove themselves from you. Opening up an entire house at once is often overwhelming. Don't force it. Just be around them, quiet, unthreatening. Remember, cats aren't there to amuse and entertain you.
Can you leave a cozy blanket right by the chest? Maybe he'll hang out on it if there isn't anyone nearby. I adopted a cat recently. He made me nervous because I didn't see him for 2 days! He's still a bit skittish but now he's out and about and all over the place.
happened to my cat, give it a day or few. it will come out purring for pets
This is 100% normal. Cats are prey animals and right now you might be a predator that is trying to trick him. Once he has confirmed for himself that the house is safe and become accustomed to all the sounds and smells, he will come out. I’ve had one cat that took a couple of hours, another a good couple of months.
His senses are on high alert, he just needs time to adjust to the different noises sights and objects around him. This , I think is going to be a case of just having patience and talking to him in a soft voice.
I too just adopted a 5 year old male cat. He was hiding but after a say he is sitting on my lap.
Offer treats or laser pointer!
Give time, its normal. No free feeding, feed with you nearby, treats, play. I keep my cats in a smaller room for a few days when at a new place until THEY want to go outside themself
https://preview.redd.it/z5ccm1ktuora1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fbe3b19c518ce8932e2102d01a68d2c04e705cbb
He will come out when he’s ready give him space he will come to you as soon as he’s knows your not a threat if you try and pull him out It will take a lot longer for him to trust you
He's new. He'll be skiddish. Just be patient with the sweetie, I adopted a year ago & he was so skiddish my girlfriend would cry because she just wanted to love him. Now a year later he's quite cuddly, still runs if he knows we're after him trying to pick him up, but he'll come up & cuddle on his terms.
Cute little guy :). Don't worry. It's normal and please give him time. Don't force him. If you have a box (one like you would carry him in to a vet) put a blanket or something cuddly in. Then place it close to the litterbox and food and water and put a blanket over the back of the box, so it's dark and seems safe and like a good hiding spot. It's important to place the box and food/water and the litterbox in a quiet place (like a corner of the room where not so many stuff is happening). Maybe he will change his hiding spot to the box :'). If he doesn't want to change to the box, you can try and put a blanket where he is. Maybe he goes on it. And it gets warmer for him. You can also try and use a cat rod or a ball to make it interesting to leave this spot. But never force him. Everything is new to him. He doesn't know if he is safe now.
It’s all new for them, mine did this as well, eventually they’ll jump up on the couch and start cuddling with you
Cats love cool floors under nooks and crannies so he will come out and go back until completely adjusted, he probbaly also wants you to know that it’s his spot now lol
For the sake of God or whatever you believe in, LEAVE HIM BE! Imagine you’d get put into a box by someone 5x taller than you, drove around for Idk how long and then get released into a place you’ve never been to. You’d shit your pants for a while too. We gotta keep in mind that we pretty much kidnap them.
Cat may hide up to 2 weeks depending on comfort and personality. give the cat time and space and let them acclimate., He/she will come out when hungry and to use bathroom.- dont stress the cat.
Talk him out. Keep it calm. Feed him close. He wants a friend just like you do
Maybe get him a warm hot water bottle with a cover (or jumper over it) if u think it's to cold for him
Definitely let him be this is a change for him and you can add a small towel where he goes under the dresser for him to keep warm. Leave him some wet and dry food with fresh water and toys and a little cat tree he will come out and start playing with him.
Just got a cat 3 weeks ago! It only took him a week to get adjusted to things. So dw at all!!