Do you know why cats hide and what are their favorite hiding places? Together we discover curiosities from the world of cats.
If you are already the "parent" of a cat, you have surely noticed that it likes to hide and sleep in the most unexpected places. Under the cover on the bed, in the closet in the hall, among the clothes on the shelves in the dressing room, in boxes and in other places that put your imagination to work when you want to find it. Especially since many cats don't even come when they are hidden somewhere and you call them.
Hiding is part of the cat's instinctive behavior, their ancestors seeking isolated, high, dark or secluded places to hide from danger and give birth to their young. By nature, felines are curious and cautious animals, and hiding, especially when sleeping, is part of their DNA. They want to be safe, in places as safe or as high as possible, where a potential danger would be harder for them to reach.
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Why cats hide and what are their favorite hiding places
Even when they are domesticated and benefit from all the warmth and attention of their owners, house cats are no exception to this instinct. If you leave the dressing room door open, 99% of cats will find a way to get to a shelf of clothes and make a warm, well-hidden bed among them. The same will happen if you bring home a box big enough to fit. Without hesitation, after a brief inspection, they will enter the box and "face" their possession.
In the case of shy cats, they will hide when you have guests, do renovations, move house, or have a new member in the family, be it furry. Changes in the environment and interaction with new people cause them to withdraw into a place where they feel safe. It is their way of coping with change and protecting themselves from potential danger or stressful situations.
In more serious cases, the cat may hide due to health problems. She will seek secluded and cool places in case of an internal infection or other ailments. That's why it's important to notice if your cat becomes agitated, aggressive, meows excessively, loses interest in people and toys around her, sits motionless and hunched over, stops using the litter box, or neglects to use the toilet.
These are clear signs of pain and discomfort, and a visit to the veterinary office cannot be postponed. It is essential to seek medical attention to diagnose and treat any condition or illness your cat may be suffering from.
Cats usually choose to hide and relax after a hectic day. If you have cleaned the house and used the vacuum cleaner, even if the cat is not frightened by the noise, it may be disturbed. She will seek, both during and after cleaning, a secluded, quiet place to rest. Many times, after cleaning, we joke that "our cats are tired as if they cleaned all day, not us". It is a common reaction of cats to seek a place to rest after periods of activity or events that have disrupted their routine.
Other reasons why cats hide can also be related to breed or predatory instinct.
Cats are natural predators and use their hunting instinct to track and capture prey. Before going hunting, they can hide, carefully observing the environment and assessing potential hunting opportunities. A typical behavior is to hide in a low position, preparing to jump at the right moment. If the cat suddenly appears and jumps on you, it is a sign that it is excited and ready to play.
Also, cats love to spy. They look for a safe and high place, from where they can quietly observe both their owners and the entire surrounding territory. They usually choose to hide in high places, such as the top of a cupboard or a high window sill, to get a better view of their surroundings.
Cats are known for their tendency to sleep a lot and forage quiet places for rest. DND (Do Not Disturb – Do not disturb) is a preferred state for them when they want to rest undisturbed. They choose to hide in comfortable places and lie down to sleep peacefully.
These behaviors are an integral part of cats' nature and reflect their instinct and individual preferences. It is important to give your cat the opportunity to exhibit these behaviors in a safe and comfortable way in their environment.
What are cats' favorite hiding places?
Cardboard box, no matter how small, cats love it because it provides them with a soothing, warm and comfortable space. In addition, through the sides of the box, he can take a look at what is happening around him or if his territory has been invaded.
The laundry basket it gives him the necessary comfort. If you can't find it all day, you'll look for it when you want to put the clothes in the wash or iron them.
Under the bed, pillows or blankets. She'll feel safe under the bed if she's scared or shy, and she likes under blankets and pillows for the simple fact that they're fluffy and warm. Especially during the cold periods of the year, don't be surprised when you see some "chickens" under the covers.
wardrobe. The closed space of the closet perfectly isolates the noises in the house, and the feline can thus have its beauty sleep all day. At the same time, there is also the comfort given by the clothing in it.
Washbasin. Although it may seem strange, the cat will choose to laze in the sink or bathtub, especially during the warm season. The sink gives him the coolness he needs.
Bags and satchels. Although it is a dangerous place, as the cat can suffocate, many felines choose bags and pouches for resting. This is after he walks them around all the corners of the house and plays in them.
Where did you find the cat sleeping? 😊
