6 Surprising Reasons Why Cats Hide

Do you have a cat that likes to hide under furniture or in closets?

You’re not alone. Many cats enjoy hiding, for a variety of reasons.

Understanding why your cat behaves certain ways can help you provide your feline friend with a more comfortable environment and help you create a stronger bond.

Read on for 6 surprising reasons why cats hide…

Cats Get Shy Sometimes

When a cat is shy, it’s instinct is to hide away

1. Shyness

When a cat is shy, it’s instinct is to hide away. This is a natural response that allows the cat to feel safe and protected.

When you first bring a new cat into your home, expect that it will be shy at first. Allow time for the cat to get used to its new surroundings and feel comfortable enough to come out from hiding.

In the meantime, give your new cat some space and let it approach you on its own terms. With a little patience, your shy cat will soon be happy and outgoing.

Having a Nap

The love hiding away in a snug and secure spot

2. Nap Time

When it comes to taking a nap, cats know what they’re doing! By hiding away in a snug and secure spot, cats are able to nap without being disturbed and gain some much-needed rest.

Hiding when sleeping stems from a cat’s natural instinct to stay safe. In the wild, hiding would protect a vulnerable sleeping cat from predators.

While domestic cats don’t have to worry about becoming someone’s dinner, they still benefit from the feeling of security that comes from being hidden away.

Provide your cats with a snuggly cat cave to help them feel comfortable and relaxed when they nap.

Hides and Leaps?

Just trying to have a good time

3. Playing

Cats are natural hunters, and stalking their prey is part of the fun. When your cat hides and then leaps out at you or another pet, they’re simply trying to have a good time.

If your cat likes to do this, provide it with a cat scratching post that features caves and sections to hide away. This will provide your kitty with hours of playtime and keep them out of trouble.

So next time your cat is in hiding, don’t worry – they’re probably just trying to have some fun.

Cats Form Strong Bonds

They may experience separation anxiety when their owners leave them alone

4. Separation Anxiety

Cats are highly social creatures, and many of them form strong bonds with their owners.

As a result, some cats may experience separation anxiety when their owners leave them alone. In order to cope with this anxiety, cats will often hide until their owners come back.

This behaviour can be a problem for cat sitters, who may not be able to find the cat when they first arrive.

So, if your cat suddenly goes into hiding when you’re getting ready to go out, it’s likely that they’re just feeling a little bit anxious.

Provide your nervous kitty with plenty of cosy places to hide away until you get back.

Starts Hiding Away?

It could be a sign that something is wrong

5. Sickness

If your cat is normally a social butterfly but suddenly starts hiding away, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

Cats are instinctively private creatures, and they will typically only come out when they feel comfortable and safe.

If your cat is feeling sick, it is likely that it will want to spend more time in its hiding spot in order to recover.

If you notice that your cat is acting out of the ordinary, it is always best to take them to the vet for a check-up. By doing so, you can ensure that your cat stays healthy and happy for years to come.

Cats Get Shy Sometimes

When a cat is shy, it’s instinct is to hide away

6. Hunting

If you have ever seen a cat stalking its prey, you may have noticed that it often tries to hide. By hiding, a cat can help to increase its chances of catching its prey off guard.

When ambush hunting in nature, a cat will often take up a position behind some form of cover, such as a bush or a rock. In your home, it could be behind a lounge or under a table.

Here, it can wait patiently for its prey to approach before leaping out and attacking.

Similarly, if there are other cats in the house, they may try to hide and stalk them as part of their play. In this case, the element of surprise can lead to an exciting game of chase.

Either way, it is clear that hiding is an important part of a cat’s hunting strategy.

Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that cats enjoy spending time in small spaces, and often go to great lengths to find the perfect hiding spot.

Providing your cat with plenty of areas to hide will help your feline friend feel safe and happy in your home.

So next time you can’t find your cat, don’t be too alarmed – they’re just doing what comes naturally.