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My new cat is hiding and won't eat. How do I make him comfortable?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Burmese | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

How do I get my new cat to be comfortable? How do I get him to eat and drink water when he is always hiding under the couch and refuses to come out?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 16th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Mickey. Congrats on your new cat! Moving into a new home is stressful, so it takes time and patience. Move him into a small room in your home, and put in there a litter box, food, and water. Visit him a couple of times a day, praising him and giving him treats when he comes out to see you. As he comes out more and more, you can play with him and give him love. Then after a couple of days, open the door to his room to let him explore. Initially, keep the amount of time he explores short, then gradually increase the time as he becomes more comfortable in your home. Eventually, he can be out of his room full time. In the beginning, keep him in his room when you go out so he feels safe. I hope this helps!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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