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New kitten won’t come out of under the couch

2.7K views 10 replies 5 participants last post by  Happy544  
#1 ·
Hi everyone!

Today my new kitten arrived. She’s 2 month old Scottish straight shorthair. I saw her for 2 seconds and she ran under the couch and found a hiding spot. She absolutely won’t come out. It’s been maybe 8 hours she arrived. I’m starting to get worried. I can hear her meowing very little like once an hour. What should I do? Here’s a picture. You can see her little legs in the corner

Thank you!

 
#2 ·
Hi! I don't think this is something to worry about, at least not yet. Cats can get very scared when they're in a new environment and it's not uncommon that they hide and take their own time. I recommend that you place food, water and even a litter box close to the kitten. Try to not make loud noises or have too many people over. You can also place some treats right next to the couch to reinforce positive behavior when the kitten does decide to come out. You could also buy feliway or something similar if you're able to, it will make the cat feel more calm and safe.
 
#3 ·
Quite normal for a new kitty to hide initially.. Also normal to not eat right away and/or use the litter box right away.. Its the stress of a new environment.. Just give her time to come out on her own.. especially if she just arrived today..It's a totally overwhelming position for her. :) In a few weeks you will wonder what you were worried about. :)
 
#4 ·
Thanks for the responses. I will give her time. Is it common for kittens to spend the night hiding as well? She arrived at 11am, I think she will be there till tomorrow. Is she going to be ok? I put the water and the food next to where she is.
the breeder told me to remove her from the couch and cover the space so she won’t go back in. Told me to interact with her. Im not sure if that’s the best idea. She’s terrified of me. When I approach her she hisses. Poor baby must be so scared.
 
#6 ·
Update: she decided to leave the hiding spot. I woke up in the middle of the night with a fur ball sleeping on my pillow! She loves me bed. She won’t let me touch her but doesn’t seem to be scared of me so much. I’m so relieved. She used the sand box and drank water. Just didn’t eat yet. 🙏🙏
She also likes the space between the bed and the wall.
Any tips on how to get her to trust me more in the next days? Thanks!

 
#10 ·
I had one like that. Hid under a stand in the laundry room for several days, only came out to eat and use box for 2 or three days and only when Ivwas not home, or sleeping. Just leave her alone. Keep her box close by her area. You might sit KINDA near her spot and sing or talk softly but don't get too close or try to coax her out. She will come around.