How to Get a Shy Cat Out of Hiding

Cats tend to get a bum rap as being less affectionate than their household-pet counterpart, the dog. The truth is, cats can be every bit as loving and attentive as dogs. From time to time, you will encounter the ever-elusive cat-in-hiding. Cats may hide for a variety of reasons, most of which can be attributed to a general fear for one reason or another. It is important to socialize them into the household and let them know that they are indeed welcome and wanted.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean water dish
  • Clean food dish
  • Clean litter box
  • Canned tuna
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Instructions

    • 1

      Don't chase after the cat. This is especially important of a cat introduced to a new home. Give it some time to get the lay of the land. If the cat finds a nook under the bed where it stays most of the time, don't go digging after it. If the cat feels cornered, you may find yourself at the business end of its claws, and the cat will feel less safe, as well.

    • 2

      Set up a water bowl and food bowl just outside the cat's hiding spot. If the cat has chosen a particular room to hide in, set up a litter box in the same room. If you have other animals, make this room a safety room for your cat; close the door to this room and make it off-limits to the rest of your pets.

    • 3

      Place some toys around the area of the cat's hiding spot. Cat toys such as stuffed mice and plush balls may entice the cat to come out and play. Toys that are stuffed with catnip may be especially appealing. Don't expect the cat to play with you in the area at first. Simply leave the toys out for when the cat feels like playing.

    • 4

      Begin a routine. Replenish the cat's food and water daily at the same times, and clean the litter box at the same time daily, as well. Plop down on the floor in close proximity to the hiding spot and spend some time talking to the cat. This will make your voice familiar, and in time, gain the cat's trust.

    • 5

      Tempt the cat out with a tasty treat. Many cats respond quite favorably to something like tuna fish. Put some tuna out on a plate several feet from the hiding spot as you leave the area. Don't approach the cat when you see that it is out enjoying the treat. Instead, get into the routine of dropping off the treat when you leave the cat's area. Eventually, you can introduce the treat while staying next to the plate. When the cat is confident that there is no danger, it will come to get the treat with you there.

    • 6

      Tempt the cat out with a toy. After the cat has had time to adjust to its surroundings, entice the cat out of hiding with a feathery wand or rattle mouse. When the cat has warmed up to you, you may find yourself with a feisty little companion.

    • 7

      Give it time. Every cat that goes into hiding has a different temperament. The key is to be patient, as there is no set amount of time for the cat to feel comfortable. Getting upset with the cat or yelling at it is never a good approach, and can have an extremely negative effect.