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Question

I have recently bought a 5-6month Birman Choc seal (female). She is very friendly and is eating well. My concern is she likes to hide under beds, low tables, and anywhere out of site. Is this normal behaviour or is there something I can do to help? We purchased her from a breeder where there were a lot of cats and small dogs so her one on one time with humans may have been limited. She isnt as playful as I would have expected. We have had her 2 weeks and has all her Vet checks done and is in good health. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Submitted: 196 days and 11 hours ago.
Category: Cat
Value: $9
Status: CLOSED
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Optional Information

Age: <1; Female; Breed: Birman cat

Already Tried:
Bringing her out from hiding places and giving her cuddles then letting her sleep on the sofa beside someone.

Accepted Answer

Dear friend,

 

I would not worry too much about this. She will warm up very soon. Let her do it at her own pace though.

What you are seeing is totally normal feline behavior.

All cats HATE change and cats are like some people - very resistant and suspicious of any thing new. It is normal for a cat to "scope out" a safe spot like under a bed or up high when she is in a new location. From there she records everything in her mind and memory and then decides if it is safe to venture out and when.If there are no other pets to scare her it will be sooner rather than later.

She probably walks around at night.

Since cats are nocturnal and it is quiet at night that is when she feels most comfortable exploring as that is exactly what a cat would do in the wild - so it is instinct.

You can also get a feliway plug in to keep her calm http://www.catfaeries.com/ or a pet supply. That will reduce her anxiety but she is not likely to begin walking around in daytime untill she has convinced her self that it is safe. I would not pull her out and force her - just let her decide when to get into the gist of things..It is best to ignore her and just act as unconcerned and nonchalant as possible.

If you ever saw a new cat come into the at room of a shelter, you would see her immediately get up as high or as far under something as possible.

Leave her food, water and liter in the safe area you have made for her - she will come out to eat when he house is quiet and everyone is asleep.

To a cat food is love and they CAN be bribed. Sit quietly and offer a piece of chicken or cold cut. Eventually she will take food from you. Then she will warm up very quickly to both of you.

Get a lasar pointer and feather wand and engage her in play.

Dont worry, I promise she will be fine.

Please let me know if you still have questions or wish to discuss this further. I am happy to help.I will always be here for you!

 

Best of luck with your new baby!!

Very sincerely,

Terri

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Expert: Terri Riba
Pos. Feedback: 99.9 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 5/10/2009

Feline Healthcare Expert

Expert in feline health and behavior. 20 years experience with cats.

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