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How to help a new kitten hiding from an older cat feel secure?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Curl | Female | 3 lbs

My new kitten "Scruff" Is staying in the bedroom and she is usually under the bed. I am afraid she is afraid to come out in the living room because my senior cat is acting jealous. Is little "Scruff" ok? Is she just getting used to her new surrounding? She was part of a feral colony, but she's totally tame now. I want her to feel secure. I go and play with her many times during the day. Is there anything I can do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 12th, 2017

It can take time for cats to get acclimated to their environment.

I would give her time if you just got her. She also may be one of these cats that does hide during the day.

I would just make sure you give Scruff attention and play time with her and give her time to come out on her own. I would recommend getting a laser toy for Scruff to play with her.

I would also make time for you senior cat to make sure that she doesn't continue to feel jealousy.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM
Veterinarian
It is possible that Scruff is exhibiting signs of stress in her home environment, but there are many things that you can do to help alleviate stress and help Scruff feel better. With some adjustments you can help make your home a fun and comfortable place for her. Cats need at least one litterbox per cat plus one extra to help reduce stress associated with the litterbox. They should be placed in separate rooms, away from the food and water bowls, must be scooped at least daily (preferably multiple times a day)and washed out at least weekly with a mild soap, followed by thorough rinsing. Cats need a lot of space to explore, but keeping them indoors is much safer than letting them outside, due to the risk of injury from cars, wildlife, other animals, etc. The key is providing space (particularly vertical space for climbing, such as cat trees, ledges, and the like) inside the home. Visit http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=T&C=33&S=2 , healthcareforpets.com and https://indoorpet.osu.edu// for tips on stress reduction. Also look into Feliway, a synthetic pheromone that is available in a diffuser and spray form that promotes calm feelings in cats http://www.feliway.com , and Feliway Friends, a pheromone that helps cats get along with each other. Good luck!
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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