If your new kitten has been hiding since the day you brought them home, it’s reasonable to be concerned about them missing in action. Hiding is normal behavior for kittens when they’re in a new space. Even though your home certainly feels safe and welcoming to you, it likely feels overwhelming to your new kitten.
After an initial adjustment, your kitten will venture out from hiding to explore their new surroundings.
We’ve created this Q&A to help you understand why new kittens hide, how to coax them out gently, and when the hiding behavior is concerning enough for veterinary attention.
Q1: Why is my new kitten hiding?
To your tiny kitten, your home is an unfamiliar and scary place. Everything is new: sounds, smells, people, and possibly other pets. Moreover, being in your home means being separated from their littermates and previous familiar surroundings.
To cope, your kitten will tap into their natural survival instincts and find a safe, secure space to hide. Usually, this place is warm and dark.
Don’t be surprised if your kitten is hiding under your bed. This is a normal coping behavior for new kittens, allowing them to feel protected in a new space.
Q2: How long does the new kitten adjustment period usually last?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The new kitten adjustment period might last just a few hours or take anywhere from several days to several weeks. This wide range is normal and largely depends on the kitten.
For example, very timid kittens may need a week or longer to adjust to a new home. Other kittens that have been well socialized or are naturally more outgoing may need only a few days, or even less.
What’s most important to remember is that progress during the adjustment period is gradual and should not be rushed. Your kitten will come out when they’re ready.
Q3: Should I force my kitten to come out of hiding?
In short, no. Forcing your kitten out of hiding will frighten them and cause them more stress and anxiety. It will also prolong the adjustment period. You must let your kitten come out on their own terms, even if you think they’ve been hiding for too long.
Instead of pulling your kitten out of their hiding spot, focus on building trust with them by being patient and consistent. Use treats, toys, and calm interaction to help them feel more at ease with you and your home. The key is to make exploration a positive experience whenever your kitten wants to come out of hiding.
Q4: How can I help my kitten feel more comfortable?
If your new kitten is hiding, it is critical to keep them comfortable during the adjustment period. When you arrive home with them, put them in a small, quiet room that is free of distractions. Placing them in a high-traffic, noisy area of your home will frighten and stress your kitten.
Provide food, water, bedding, and a litter box. Do not put these items directly in your kitten’s hiding space. Place them a short distance away so your kitten has to venture out just a little to get their necessities.
Offer safe, accessible hiding spots, such as under the bed. Your kitten can feel safe under the bed and still have easy access to what they need.
Spend quiet time in the room. The adjustment period isn’t the time to engage in active play with your new kitten. Sit with them so they can get used to your calm presence. Doing so will build a sense of trust and safety with you.
You can also use gentle play, such as placing fun toys and treats nearby. That allows for some interaction, but nothing overwhelming or overstimulating.
Maintain a predictable routine. Establish regular mealtimes, a routine for changing the litter box, and quality time. A routine creates a sense of security and consistency that your kitten can rely on.
Q5: Is it normal if my kitten is hiding and not eating much?
It is normal for kittens not to eat much during their first day or two in a new space. Monitor your kitten’s food and water intake closely to determine whether they’re eating and drinking. Kittens need a healthy diet for proper growth and development, and they should not go long without eating. Not eating for more than two days warrants veterinary attention.
As your kitten becomes more comfortable, even if they’re still hiding, their appetite should gradually return.
Q6: When should I worry about my kitten hiding?
Here are several signs that should raise concern about a new kitten’s hiding behavior:
- Hiding that worsens rather than improves
- Not eating or drinking after one or two days
- Lethargy or weakness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of injury or illness
If your new kitten is showing any of these signs, it’s time to contact your veterinarian. Hiding is normal for new kittens, but the symptoms listed above could indicate an underlying health condition rather than just the stress of adjustment.
Q7: When should I contact my veterinarian?
Contact your veterinarian if you notice these signs or behaviors:
- Not eating or drinking after 24 to 48 hours
- Extreme lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Sudden behavioral changes
- Respiratory difficulty
- Signs of dehydration, such as weakness, sunken eyes, and no appetite
Schedule an appointment with your vet if your new kitten is showing any concerning behaviors or symptoms.
Hiding Is Normal
Hiding is normal behavior for kittens in a new environment. When provided with a safe space to hide and adjust, most kittens will eventually gain enough confidence to start exploring. Being patient and not forcing interaction will give your kitten the space they need to feel comfortable and confident in their new home. With time, consistency, and positive experiences, most kittens settle into their new homes and become comfortable family members.
