Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Cats hiding, spraying, not eating after loud noise. Stress or medical?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 2 months old | 12 lbs

Hi there! My significant other woke up to a loud noise in the house this morning. Both of our cats went into hiding in separate rooms and are displaying fearful behavior. There was spraying throughout the house and the neutered male won't eat/drink/come out of hiding. The spayed female came out a few hours ago. Is this anxiety/stress? If it was a medical issue, what should we look out for?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 24th, 2017

It sounds like they have had a disagreement as opposed to a medical issue. It could have been a one off tiff, but sometimes cats just dont get on. I would recommend having 2 different litter trays and feeding stations and beds so they are not forced together if they'd rather be apary. Also a feliway diffuser can help a lot. In terms of medical issues you eould be lookimg for signs of ill health such as vomiting, diarrohea, pain or lethargy. But I would give it a little time before making any conclusions as stressful events can make cats act very oddly.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It sounds like they have had a disagreement as opposed to a medical issue. It could have been a one off tiff, but sometimes cats just dont get on. I would recommend having 2 different litter trays and feeding stations and beds so they are not forced together if they'd rather be apary. Also a feliway diffuser can help a lot. In terms of medical issues you eould be lookimg for signs of ill health such as vomiting, diarrohea, pain or lethargy. But I would give it a little time before making any conclusions as stressful events can make cats act very oddly.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored