Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Anxiety and Hiding Behaviour

Understanding and supporting cats who hide excessively due to anxiety or stress.

Key Facts

Hiding is a normal coping mechanism for cats but can indicate chronic stress when persistent
Common triggers include new people, loud noises, multi-cat conflict, and environmental change
Providing multiple elevated hiding spots reduces competition and stress in multi-cat homes
Veterinary assessment is essential if hiding is sudden or accompanied by other signs

Welfare Considerations

Chronic hiding reflects significant welfare compromise - cats are not 'just shy' but may be suffering ongoing anxiety. Identifying and addressing triggers, combined with enrichment and veterinary support, can meaningfully improve their quality of life.

What You Can Do

Create safe, elevated hiding spaces in each room of your home
Use pheromone diffusers in areas where anxious cats spend time
Consult a vet or feline behaviourist if hiding is persistent or sudden in onset