Why Do Kittens Hide?

Remember when you brought that new kitten home and then didn't see her again for days? Kittens have animal instincts that kick in when they become stressed or want to be alone. Her instincts tell her to remove herself from a situation with which she is unfamiliar until she feels secure. Kittens have a natural adjustment period when they are put in a new environment. Patience and tender loving care will help your kitten ease into her new life.

  1. Missing Litter Mates

    • When you bring a kitten home, it is most likely the first time he's been away from his mother and litter mates. Kittens are still babies and the presence of mom and siblings gave him a great sense of well-being. The new environment smells and looks different and that in itself is enough to send a kitten hiding for awhile. Once your kitten gets used to your home and the new humans in his life, he will venture out a bit more.

    Fear

    • Along with missing her family, a kitten is abruptly moved from the safety of her mother to your home. The move causes a great deal of fear for the new addition to the family. There really isn't a slow way to make this transition, you just have to deal with the anxiety the kitten feels. She may be fearful of everything you try. The best way to alleviate the fear is to spend time near her hiding spot, talking softly and offering food. She will come out when she feels the threat has lessened.

    Insecurity

    • Kittens spend their first weeks in close proximity to their mother and litter mates. Food and litter is typically in the same cage or box as the animals. When a kitten moves to your home, he has to learn where his food and water are and where to go to the bathroom. Before letting your kitten loose in your home, show him where his food, water and litter box are located. It may take a couple of weeks to remember, so don't be upset when he uses the bathroom in his hiding place or places other than the litter box.

    Flight Response

    • An animal's natural instinct when sick or being hunted is to hide. Kittens will hide if they feel ill or feel like they are being stalked by a predator. It's not likely your kitten is sick, but probably fears other pets in the home. Not only is she getting used to new humans, but if you have other pets, they may feel threatening to her. Keep other pets away from the kitten as much as possible the first week or so. Introduce them to each other slowly to lessen the urge to hide.