Have you noticed that you are always trying to find your cat? Cats love to hide. They need their privacy and alone time. Whenever they feel threatened or feel the presence of someone unknown, they will make a run for it. You want to be able to provide a safe space for your cat. hide It will help your kitty feel protected and help you Here are some lovely, practical tips for creating a safe space for your cat to hide.
Why does my cat hide?
Your cat’s need to hide can be frustrating also surprising for first-time cat owners. Cats like to avoid the fuss and the unknown. If they do not know you, they prefer to steer clear of you. Then, slowly and at their own pace, they decide whether they want to approach you or not. It is their process, and it is best to let them have it. Therefore, cats like to have a safe haven, and these areas are essential to them. Every cat owner and cat lover should know and respect that. Also, they need to be independent, and even when there is no “danger” around, they like their alone time.
Four DIY hacks for creating a safe space for your cat to hide
- A cardboard box. This is the most typical and easy solution for your cat. It will love to play in and with the box and use it as an easy hiding place. It is a good idea to cut out a hole on the side of the box so that it is easier for the cat to go in and look through it before it comes out.
- Pull an old T-shirt over a box. A quick and inexpensive way to create a hiding place. It may seem silly at first, but you would be surprised by how effective this simple trick is. Secure it, tuck the sleeves under the box, and leave the hole for the head on top so that the cat can slide in. The enclosure will create the peace and quiet that your beloved cat needs. It will also make it super easy for it to pop its head through the hole and survey its surroundings.
- Buy a cat tree. Your cat likes to go up high. It feels safer this way as it can look over from above and see things more clearly. There are many variations, and some of them have an enclosed area at the top, which your cat will most appreciate. If you prefer to use what you already have at home, consider some shelves or wardrobe tops. You can put a blanket or a pillow there, and your cat will safely and cozily use it as a hideout.
- Bushes, flowerpots, and furniture. If you have an outdoor area where your cat spends time, there are endless opportunities for it to hide. You can help it out by placing some large flowerpots by the entrance. Planting some large flowers or bushes is also ideal. But be careful—there are several plants that are toxic to cats, so ask an expert beforehand. Additionally, if you have outdoor furniture, make sure to include a box of some sort, a crate, or a basket. This would be a fantastic hiding spot for your beloved pet.
Cat Hiding options to avoid
Pay attention to where your cat runs off to. Ensure that it does not get into the habit of hiding in unsafe areas of your home.
- Avoid letting your cat hide anywhere where toxic chemicals are stored.
- We also know that cats love to go inside the washer or dryer. They love the dryer, especially after it was used because it is nice and warm inside. Make sure to always close those washer and dryer doors. And always check before turning it on because your pet might be inside without you realizing it.
- Perhaps your cat likes to hide inside a drawer or a particularly tight area in your home or garden. Check on it periodically so that it does not get stuck unintentionally. If the area or passage is too narrow and you see your cat going there and getting stuck, seal it off so that it does not repeat in the future.
- Lastly, do not overlook that cats need plenty of water, so do not forget them when they are in their little getaway from the world. Keep their bowls filled in their standard locations and make sure they stay hydrated.
Are you moving?
You might be moving around a lot or are planning to change homes soon. Believe it or not, your feline friend will be significantly affected by this. If you are feeling anxious or stressed out by this change, without a doubt, your cat is feeling it as well. When the time comes, introduce them to the new space and recreate those hiding areas in the new home. If you are struggling to move all your belongings at once, rent storage without spending a fortune at one of the trusted and reliable storage facilities. Cutting costs on your storage expenses will allow you to better manage the change of location. However, try not to leave all your kitty accessories there. Bring as many blankets as possible and other cat-familiar things. This will make the transition much more seamless and stress-free.
A few more things
Follow some well-known guidelines for creating a safe space for your cat to hide if you want it to get accustomed to these areas. Cats like warmth. For this reason, as mentioned before, avoid letting them in the laundry area. But do make their hiding place warm and cozy. Blankets and scarfs are great options to use in a safe space for your cat to hide. Cats also like smells. Therefore, once they start using these hiding places, try not to clean them too often. It is comforting for them to go back to where they recognize their smell. When you do wash these areas, rub something on them that the cat has used before. Or, if your cat is cuddly, leave something you wore, and it will be attracted to your smell.