I just adopted a 7 year old Bengal from the original owner. Now in a new home, with a new owner, she has been reclusive for the past 4 days hiding under the bed or behind the couch. She comes out at night when I am sleeping to eat, use the litter box, explore and play. I have cornered her a few times, put her in my lap and petted her till she has purred to show her that everything is ok. How long should I wait for her to come out and play with me before I should become worried? What can I do to make her more unafraid?
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Adopted Adult Cat in Hiding
- Thread starter midtownfisher
- Start Date
That's very normal for a cat in a new environment. My cat was under the bed and/or sitting near it for several months after I adopted him. It can take a long time to adjust.
The best way to handle it is to let the cat do what she likes... don't drag her out from under the bed or corner her. You could find an attractive toy and play on the floor near where she's hiding, but if she isn't interested in a few minutes stop. It's best to just talk gently to the cat and let her come to you in her own time. You might try just sitting and reading in the room where she is.
The best way to handle it is to let the cat do what she likes... don't drag her out from under the bed or corner her. You could find an attractive toy and play on the floor near where she's hiding, but if she isn't interested in a few minutes stop. It's best to just talk gently to the cat and let her come to you in her own time. You might try just sitting and reading in the room where she is.
I agree with emmylou's post, if you corner the cat or try to force yourself on her, it will just frighten her. She needs more time to adjust to her new surroundings, so let her make the first moves.
