How to Get a Cat out From Behind the Fridge

Cats seek small, confined spaces as a way to feel safe and secure. If you introduce a cat into a new environment -- for example, if you move or adopt a new feline -- or if you live in a busy household, the cat will find an out-of-the-way area in which to hide. Even if you haven't changed your cat's environment, it may look for its own little nook. If behind the refrigerator is your cat's chosen spot, you can employ two basic techniques to get the feline out: entice it or startle it.

Things You'll Need

  • Tuna
  • Salmon
  • String
  • Catnip
  • Vacuum
  • Hair dryer
  • Soda can
  • Coins
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a bowl with a tasty treat to entice your cat out of its hiding spot. Strong-smelling foods such as tuna or salmon work best. Place the bowl a few feet away from the fridge, in your cat's line of sight if possible. When the cat comes out for the food, either scoop up the cat or immediately block its path so that it can't run behind the fridge again.

    • 2

      Tie string or a shoelace around some catnip. If you don't have access to catnip, tie the string or shoelace around a catnip toy instead. Many grocery and pet stores sell cat toys that contain catnip. Holding one end of the string, toss the other end behind the fridge so that the catnip or toy rests very close to the cat's face. Allow the cat to smell and become interested in the catnip. Once it has the cat's attention, slowly pull the string away. The cat will follow the string, allowing you to scoop it up or block its return path.

    • 3

      Position yourself on one side of the fridge, away from the cat's line of vision. Turn on a vacuum cleaner or hair dryer -- something that makes a loud noise. Alternatively, place some coins in an empty soda can and shake it. The noise will startle the cat out from its space.