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Why is my neutered male cat suddenly acting strange and hiding?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | 6 years and 7 months old

My neutered 6 year old male started acting weird yesterday. I’m wondering if his behavior has something to do with a female in heat??? He’s zipping through the house, licking himself really fast, and breathing fast. Today he’s been hiding under my dresser most of the day. Eating and using the litter box just fine. Has anyone had a male cat act like this? We’ve had him for 4 years and he’s never done anything this before.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 7th, 2018

It is not likely because of a female in heat. What you describe sounds more like he is running away from an itch or pain. Some cats act like that when they have fleas. If you are not doing flea prevention, it may be a good idea to do so. You may also want to check if there are any painful areas on his body (especially where he licks himself). Also check for flea poop (part the hair in the area near the base of the tail on his back and abdomen for little black specs). If you find little black specs of poop, flea prevention is in order. If you find an area that hurts him, you should take him to a veterinarian for an exam.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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