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Why is my new kitten timid, not eating, drinking, or using litter?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 22 days old | 2 lbs

Does my new kitten have an underlying medical health problem? So I just received my new kitten from a friend who was giving them away. As expected, he is very timid, often hiding his little head in the cusion between his bed. I know this is quite common but he seems to be excessively timid and has not eaten or has been hydrating whatsoever. Nor has he urinated or pooped. Before settling here, he did eat; however still tried to hide a lot. I'm getting concerned for his mental and physical health.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 23rd, 2018

Your kitten is way too young to be away from its mommy. It would benefit him if you could take him back to your friend and leave him with his mother for another 3 or 4 weeks. While kittens start eating solid food at around 5-6 weeks, they should still benefit from mother's milk. Suckling also has a psychological benefit as kittes can run to mommy when something scares them. Shadow is also likely to be extremely scared and lonely in the new place with new smells. Try returning him to your friend for another 3-4 weeks and you will get a much brighter happier kitty back. Right now, you should keep him close to your body, where it is warm and where he can feel safe. Try to offer him wet (canned ) food warmed up, not dry food. Get some kitten milk and warm that up as well and let him lick it off your fingers. I hope your friend is willing to give Shadow another few weeks with his mom.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 11th, 2018

    Poor Baby! He is likely just really scared from the change of environment and from being away from his family. I would make sure he has access to food, water and even some canned food overnight to see if he will come out of his hiding place while you all sleep. I would not chase him or mess with him right now. If he continues to not eat or if you are worried, I would have your vet take a look at him to ensure he isn't sick. With time, he will likely come out of his shell some but he may never be an extremely social cat. I hope this helps!

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