When a cat suddenly starts hiding from its owner, the underlying cause may be fear or anxiety.
Changes in the environment can cause a reaction in cats, which are sensitive creatures.
Noisy guests, renovations, or simply new furniture can cause them stress.
In addition, animals may be afraid of strangers or other animals that appear in the house.
If the cat used to behave calmly, but now looks for secluded places, it is worth taking a closer look at the possible sources of its anxiety.
Changes in the house
Any changes in the home can cause anxiety in a cat.
Rearranging furniture, new appliances, or even new smells can disrupt the familiar environment.
Cats love stability and routine, so any new thing can make them want to hide.
If there have been significant changes in your home recently, try bringing back some of the old furnishings or giving your cat access to familiar areas.
Diseases and discomfort
A cat's health can also affect its behavior. If the animal is in pain or discomfort, it will seek out secluded places to rest.
Cats instinctively hide when they feel unwell to protect themselves from potential predators.
If your cat suddenly starts hiding and shows other signs of illness, such as loss of appetite or behavior changes, you should contact your veterinarian.
Timely diagnosis and treatment will help improve the pet's condition and return it to normal life.
Bad experiences and injuries
Bad experiences or trauma can leave a deep mark on a cat's psyche.
If an animal has been abused or has experienced a traumatic situation, it may begin to avoid people.
Even a minor incident, such as an accidental bump or fall, can cause a cat to become fearful and want to hide.
In such cases, it is necessary to be patient and create a safe and comfortable environment for the animal.
Gradually building trust and love will help your cat feel safe again.
Lack of attention
Cats, like people, can experience a lack of attention. If the owner begins to devote less time to their pet, the cat may begin to hide, expressing its dissatisfaction.
Attention and care are very important for the emotional well-being of the animal.
Regular play, petting and interaction will help strengthen the bond between owner and cat, which will reduce the desire to hide.
It is important to remember that a cat is a social creature that needs love and attention.
Instincts
Instincts play an important role in the behavior of cats. Hiding is a natural behavior for them, ingrained by evolution.
In the wild, cats hide to protect themselves from predators or to prepare for a hunt.
Even domestic cats have not lost these instincts, so sometimes the desire to hide can simply be a manifestation of natural instincts.
It is important to provide your cat with the opportunity to exercise its instincts in a safe environment.
Recent changes in the cat's life
Recent changes in your cat's life may cause her to become stressed and want to hide.
This could be a move, the arrival of a new pet, or a change in daily routine.
Such changes require time to adapt. It is important to be understanding and supportive of the cat during this period, creating comfortable conditions for it.
Gradually getting used to the new environment will help reduce stress and restore your cat's confidence.
Previously, we talked about how to properly keep two or more cats in the house.
