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My cat hides under the bed after moving. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | 8 lbs

We just moved an adult male cat to a new home, with our other two cats, adult male and female, all fixed. and the first cat, BB, won't come out from under the bed. i know we should give him time, but he's eating but not drinking or using the litter box...and he only eats when we put a can under the bed....what can i do??

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 2nd, 2017

Poor BB! I would recommend putting his litter box, food and water bowls, etc. in the room with the bed and leaving him alone with the door closed for now. He will eventually come out to eat, drink, and use the bathroom when things are quiet and he feels comfortable - many cats wait until nighttime when everyone is asleep to do this. A Feliway pheromone diffuser in the room may also help. It may take a week or two for him to be comfortable enough to come out from under the bed for more than a moment or two, so I would be patient for now and give him time to adjust. Once he's acting normal again, you can transition his food and water bowls, litter box, etc. to wherever you would like them to be in the long term :)

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 14th, 2019

    Congrats on your new cat! Moving into a new home is stressful, and it will take time for Armin to adjust. I would bring the litter box, food, and water into the room where he is hiding, and shut the door. Give him space and quiet, and hopefully he will come out of the bed soon to eat, drink, and use the litter. If he hasn't done any of those things by the morning, have him seen by a vet. Best of luck.

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