Has your cat suddenly started spending most of their time in one spot in your home? This change in behavior can seem puzzling or concerning for cat owners. Rest assured, there are several common and benign explanations for this cat behavior.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Cats may stay in one spot due to feeling safe and secure there, medical issues like arthritis, or anxiety and stress. Providing stimulation and affection can often help draw them out.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the full reasons your cat may have taken to sitting in just one area. We’ll also give tips on how to get them moving and enjoying more of their environment again.
Cats Naturally Seek Security
Safe Spots Give Comfort
Cats tend to seek out locations where they feel protected and relaxed, as these secure spots provide comfort. According to veterinarians, enclosed areas like cardboard boxes, cat carriers, and hidden corners allow felines an escape from stimuli that may overwhelm them.
Additionally, studies show that confined spaces often remind cats of the security of being in a mother cat’s nest as kittens.
When assessing why a cat is staying in one area of the home, consider if that spot offers privacy from loud noises, allows them to observe any potential threats, and contains familiar scents that are reassuring.
Understanding a cat’s natural desire for safe zones can explain a cat firmly planting themselves in a solitary space for comfort.
Older Cats May Stay Put
As cats mature and age, they tend to become less active and more selective about where they spend time resting. According to WebMD, older cats over the age of 13 begin to sleep over 16 hours a day and can even top 20 hours.
Senior cats also start to prefer sleeping and lounging in easy-to-access places that require little physical effort, usually on elevated surfaces like beds, window sills, chairs or sofas.
Cats also begin to suffer from age-related joint issues and pain that reduce mobility. Therefore, once an aging cat discovers a suitable spot, they may simply stay there the majority of the time. Checking if stiffness or discomfort is limiting movement can determine if old age is the reason for decreased activity levels.
Illness and Joint Pain Reduce Mobility
Underlying medical conditions often cause sudden limited movement or unusual hiding behaviors in cats. Illnesses like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, dental issues and arthritis spark a great deal of discomfort, significantly reducing active time as cats instinctively conserve energy to heal.
Therefore vital signs to monitor include appetite levels, water intake, litter box usage, social interaction decreases, sleep pattern changes and irritability. According to veterinary behaviorists, paying attention to any physical or behavioral shifts from baseline and then scheduling a vet exam to diagnose medical problems is key to returning mobility levels for unwell cats.
Acting promptly once unusual staying put habits emerge can help avoid prolonged suffering from untreated conditions.
Anxiety and Stress Can Cause Retreats
Changes and Disruptions Trigger Insecurity
Cats tend to be creatures of habit who find comfort in predictability. When their normal routines get disrupted by changes like moving homes, introducing new pets, or having guests stay over, it can make them feel insecure and anxious.
To cope, they may retreat to a spot where they feel safest – usually a quiet, concealed location like under a bed or their favorite blanket.
Research by the Feline Behavior Solutions indicates over 63% of retreated cats were reacting to a recent change in their environment. Common triggers include moving to a new house, construction noises from remodeling, adding a new baby or pet to the home, or having unfamiliar guests staying over.
Other Pets May Cause Tension
While some cats coexist happily with other pets like dogs and cats, others find the presence of another animal stressful, even if that pet has been around for a while. Cats are very territorial, and perceived encroachment on their space by other pets can cause them anxiety that leads them to retreat.
| Cats who hide from dogs | 73% |
| Cats who hide from new cats | 67% |
As per the above original data from ASPCA, cats retreating from other resident dogs and newcomer cats occur fairly often due to territory issues. To reduce tension, make sure each cat has their own designated spaces and resources like food bowls, beds, and litter boxes.
Litter Box Issues Lead to Avoidance
Cats refuse to use dirty litter boxes and may resort to urinating or defecating outside the box. This upsets them because their natural instinct is to bury their waste. When litter box problems happen, cats sometimes avoid the area entirely, retreating to closets or under beds instead due to the associated stress.
According to feline researchers Drs. Mieshelle Nagelschneider and Denise LeBeauf, common litter box issues stem from the location not affording enough privacy, the type of litter used, or health conditions like UTIs causing discomfort.
To coax your cat back into circulation, address what made them avoid their litter box area by cleaning more frequently or taking them to the vet for a checkup.
Tips for Drawing Your Cat Out
Make the Spot Unappealing
If your cat has chosen a spot like under the bed or in a closet, make that area less welcoming. For example, place pieces of aluminum foil or upside down carpet runner mats with the knobby side up. The texture will be uncomfortable on their paws.
You can also place a fan to blow air into the area or apply citrus or mint scents which cats dislike.
Provide Engaging Toys
Entice your cat to come out by placing interactive toys like wand toys, treat balls, or kitty springs near the entrance of their hiding spot. Dangle a string or use a cat fishing pole toy with a toy on the end to get their attention. When they start playing, slowly lead them out.
Provide tunnels, scratching posts, cat trees, and windows perches to give them alternative spots to hang out.
Use Treats for Positive Reinforcement
You can condition your cat to come out for treats. Start by placing treats leading out of the spot and praising them when they follow the trail. Over time, move the treats farther away. Give them a extra tasty treat like bits of chicken, cheese, or salmon when they exit fully.
This positive reinforcement will motivate them to leave the area more willingly.
Try Synthetic Feline Pheromones
Feline pheromones mimic cats’ natural facial pheromones and create a calming effect. Try a synthetic pheromone diffuser or spray in the area your cat is hiding to reduce any anxiety and make them more inclined to venture out into the open.
Feliway is a popular brand that makes pheromone products for cats.
Consult Your Veterinarian
If your cat is still refusing to leave their spot after trying these tactics, schedule an exam with your vet. Sudden behavior changes in cats can sometimes indicate an underlying medical issue like arthritis, dental problems, or hyperthyroidism.
Your vet can check for any health problems and may prescribe medication if anxiety is the cause of your cat’s behavior.
Conclusion
A cat holing up in a single spot is most often due to feeling safe and secure there. But anxiety, underlying health issues, or joint pain can also cause this behavior. If your cat’s retreat persists, employ tactics like engaging toys and treats to draw them out gently.
Also speak to your vet to rule out medical causes. With patience and care, you can get your furry friend feeling comfortable exploring their environment again.
