How to Get a Cat to Come Out of Hiding

Cats are individual creatures who each come with their own personality and set of quirks. While shy by nature, some cats will respond to new places and people with friendliness while others feel the need for extreme caution. Whether you are trying to introduce a new pet to your home or are simply dealing with a shy creature, coaxing your cat out of hiding involves patience and taking the time to build up trust.

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove anything from the immediate area that might be frightening or distracting, such as additional pets or a running washer or dryer.

    • 2

      Move your cat's food and water bowls and litter box to an area near his hiding place. Keep the food bowl close enough that he doesn't have to venture too far out of his comfort zone at first.

    • 3

      Place a trail of food from the hiding place to the bowl. When the cat does come out, use a soft voice and touch and praise him with a small treat.

    • 4

      Move the food bowl a little farther each day and always reward him with praise in a soothing voice and a treat when he comes out.

    • 5

      Allow your cat to approach any strangers or strange sections of the house on his own terms. Do not force him into a situation from which he might feel the need to escape and undo all your patient work.

    • 6

      Be consistently patient and soothing, and accept that your feline may never be adventurous but can learn to be trusting over time.