Your Cat Needs a Safe Place to Hide

Every cat needs a place where they can disappear. Whether it’s a cardboard box, a covered cat bed, or the space underneath your bed doesn't matter. Your cat simply needs somewhere to go and be alone.

Sometimes we think cats hide because they’re scared. While this can be true, it’s equally true that cats hide when they want to sleep, escape a noisy household, or have some quiet time.

It’s perfectly normal for a cat to hide. Giving them a safe retreat will make them feel more comfortable.

When your cat goes into a hiding spot, leave them alone. Don't reach in and pull them out or let your children or another pet bother them. Your cat wants to know they have a place where there’s a clear “Do Not Disturb” sign.

This is a “must-have” in homes where there are children who don’t understand when their cat is done playing. If your cat suddenly decides playtime is over, you need to explain to your child that it’s time to leave the cat alone until it comes out and wants to play again.

You should also help your other pets understand this. Dogs who like to investigate your entire home and other cats who tend to follow your cat around need gentle reminders that there are times when the cat doesn’t want to be bothered.

Not only is respecting this boundary common courtesy, but it also shows your cat they can trust the environment they’re living in. When they learn this, they realize they don’t have to remain on high alert.

If you have a busy or noisy home, this becomes even more important. Cats need a quiet retreat from the noise and visitors.

It’s best to give them more than one option. While one cat might love a place on the floor, another may prefer somewhere up high. You’ll also find that while some cats like enclosed places, others want to be able to watch what’s going on around them.

The best way to determine what your cat really likes is to give them a variety of spaces, then observe which ones they tend to gravitate toward. Your cat will show you what they like, so let them.

Many times, we tend to overlook the fact that they’re already showing us where their favorite space is. When you find these places, think about how you can make your cat feel more comfortable there.

You don't need to spend money creating the perfect cat hideaway. Simple things like an old box, a blanket, or even leaving their cat carrier open offer great options. An open carrier is particularly useful because it gives your cat somewhere familiar to rest while helping them become accustomed to it outside of trips to the veterinarian. Add a soft blanket, leave the door open, and let your cat decide whether they want to use it.

You can also repurpose things you already have around the house. A box with a doorway cut into one side can make a simple hideaway. A quiet corner with a comfortable blanket may be enough for a cat who prefers an open space.

The important thing is that you give them the choice of where to hide. They may not even choose to use an expensive hideaway if you buy one for them.

Another important thing is making sure that wherever they choose to hide is safe. You don’t want them hanging out on unstable furniture, in places where they could become trapped, or anywhere household hazards are readily accessible. Therefore, make sure they aren’t hiding near appliances or behind doors that could hurt them.

While it’s normal for your cat to hide, you need to watch for any changes in their behavior. If your cat starts hiding more than usual, they may be feeling sick or stressed. In this case, you need to think about whether something has changed in your home or routine. Both of these things could cause your cat to spend more time alone. However, either way, you should contact your veterinarian because cats are really good at hiding what’s going on.

Remember, your goal isn’t choosing where your cat should hide. Your goal is to make sure they have a place to hide.