Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

How to help a new kitten hiding from an older cat feel secure?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Curl | Female | 3 lbs

My new kitten "Scruff" Is staying in the bedroom and she is usually under the bed. I am afraid she is afraid to come out in the living room because my senior cat is acting jealous. Is little "Scruff" ok? Is she just getting used to her new surrounding? She was part of a feral colony, but she's totally tame now. I want her to feel secure. I go and play with her many times during the day. Is there anything I can do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 12th, 2017

It can take time for cats to get acclimated to their environment. I would give her time if you just got her. She also may be one of these cats that does hide during the day. I would just make sure you give Scruff attention and play time with her and give her time to come out on her own. I would recommend getting a laser toy for Scruff to play with her. I would also make time for you senior cat to make sure that she doesn't continue to feel jealousy. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It is possible that Scruff is exhibiting signs of stress in her home environment, but there are many things that you can do to help alleviate stress and help Scruff feel better. With some adjustments you can help make your home a fun and comfortable place for her. Cats need at least one litterbox per cat plus one extra to help reduce stress associated with the litterbox. They should be placed in separate rooms, away from the food and water bowls, must be scooped at least daily (preferably multiple times a day)and washed out at least weekly with a mild soap, followed by thorough rinsing. Cats need a lot of space to explore, but keeping them indoors is much safer than letting them outside, due to the risk of injury from cars, wildlife, other animals, etc. The key is providing space (particularly vertical space for climbing, such as cat trees, ledges, and the like) inside the home. Visit http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=T&C=33&S=2 , healthcareforpets.com and https://indoorpet.osu.edu// for tips on stress reduction. Also look into Feliway, a synthetic pheromone that is available in a diffuser and spray form that promotes calm feelings in cats http://www.feliway.com , and Feliway Friends, a pheromone that helps cats get along with each other. Good luck!

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?
Is your pet Barry occasionally sneezing or showing eye crust? A trusted vet offers insights on common respiratory concerns and when to seek professional advice.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My sick small pet is breathing mouth open. Did I drown her feeding?
Is your pet ill, struggling to breathe, or showing stroke signs? A certified vet addresses syringe feeding worries, discusses causes, and outlines treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Bloody brown liquid from my cat. Is it pee or poop? Vet help?
Is brown liquid with blood from your semi-feral cats a concern? A certified vet explains how to determine if it's pee or poo and what steps to take.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My senior dog has recurring pancreatitis. How can I manage his diet?
Is your 13-year-old dog facing recurring pancreatitis? Get expert vet guidance on managing chronic inflammation, diet, and lifestyle tips for their well-being.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My cat is chunky. What food and steps can I take to help him lose weight?
Is your cat overweight? A certified vet offers guidance to help your tubby tabby lose weight. Get essential diet and food recommendations to slim down your cat!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored