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Why is my social cat suddenly hiding? Is she sick or stressed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why would a normally social cat start hiding in closets?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jeff Miller

Veterinary Technician

Published on January 25th, 2015

Stress can cause cats to hide or act abnormally. For example if you had house guests or got a new pet this could stress your cat out. However medical issues can also cause cats to hide. Cats may hide if they are feeling bad. I would keep a very close eye on your cats appetite, water intake, BMs, and urine if your cat is hiding. If you notice anything that is not normal I would take your cat in for a thorough exam and some basic bloodwork. Older cats can be prone to things like diabetes, renal disease, and hyperthyriodism. These can be fairly well managed with meds once daignosed. If your cat is a male, keep a very close eye on the litter box and be sure he is urinating ok. Male cats can get thier urethra blocked and become unable to urinate. This is an emergency and can be fatal very quickly if left untreated. If it turns out to be just stress I reccomend trying a product called Feliway. Feliway mimcks the phermone produced by mother cats and has a calming effect on cats. Feliway should be available over the counter at your local vet. hope this helps

8Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Paula Simons
Veterinarian
Hiding behaviors can be caused by illness, pain, or stress. I would suggest having your pet examined by a veterinarian.
6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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