6 Reasons Your Cat Likes To Hide

| Published on July 29, 2016

Whether it’s in a cabinet or under your bed, one thing is for sure: cats like to hide. Cat-centric companies have picked up on this fact too– that’s why products like cat caves and tunnels are so popular. Hiding isn’t only for scaredy cats; even the bravest kitties do it. The behavior can seem quirky, but there are actually good reasons why your cat likes to hide. Here are six.

Image Source: Melinda via Flickr

#1 – Needs quiet time
Cats have very strong senses, so sometimes their environments can become overwhelming. Hiding allows your cat to slip away from anything that feels overstimulating so she can rest more peacefully.

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Image Source: Mike Knell via Flickr

#2 – Likes to watch surrounding secretly
Just because you can’t see your cat doesn’t mean she can’t see you. Hiding under your bed, for instance, gives your cat the advantage of being able to keep a keen eye on what’s going on in her environment without the possibility of being disturbed. Cats often use this method when they’re feeling unsure about their environment for some reason and want to scope things out without being noticed.

9 Ways To Build Trust In A Shy Cat

Image Source: Lori B via Flickr

#3 – Makes for good hunting
Being able to hide in small spaces is part of what makes your cat a stealthy hunter. I notice this mostly when one of my cats hides for the sole purpose of pouncing on the other.

7 Traits That Make Your Cat A Fearless Hunter

Image Source: Clayton Shonkwiler via Flickr

#4 – Temperature regulation
Popular hiding spots like cabinets often stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making them the perfect places to curl up for an afternoon nap no matter what time of year it is!

5 Amazing Ways Cats Stay Cool In The Hot Summer

Image Source: Tracey T1 via Flickr

#5 – Peace from rowdy cats, dogs, or kids
If your cat shares a home with other cats, dogs, or children, hiding can give them some peace from being pet, played with, harassed, or awoken.

Image Source: Beatnik Photos via Flickr

#6 – Cats like to squeeze into tight spaces
Have you ever wondered why cats like to squeeze themselves into boxes? One of the reasons is that being surrounded on all sides gives your cat the assurance that nothing can sneak up on her. The same can be said for other hiding spots like a kitchen cabinet.

Why Do Cats Love Cardboard Boxes? Here Are 4 Reasons

Where is your cat’s favorite spot to hide? Share with us in the comments!

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