Ever feel like your cat has decided that under the bed is their new official residence? 🛏️ Whether it’s because they’re feeling nervous, or they just want some alone time, it can be frustrating when your furry friend goes AWOL.
But don’t worry – there are a few easy tricks you can try to coax them out from their secret hideout and back into the world (and your lap).
From creating a cozy alternative space to giving them some spa-worthy relaxation vibes, these tips are sure to make your cat reconsider their under-bed retreat. 😺
😼 Use the Power of Catnip
Sprinkle some catnip in areas where you actually want your cat to hang out. If the bed isn’t one of them, then you’ve just made that cozy hiding spot way less attractive.
🍗 Bribe with Treats (No Shame Here)
Place your cat’s favorite treats outside of the bed. Make a trail leading to their new hangout spot. Even the shyest cat can’t resist the lure of snacks!
🧸 Create a Cozy Alternative
Set up a new cozy spot, like a box with a soft blanket. Cats love boxes like humans love pizza—offer them something better, and they’ll switch spots faster than you can say “whiskers.”
🎵 Use Soothing Sounds
Play calming music or white noise near their new safe space. A zen cat is a cat that forgets the bed even exists!
🕹 Engage with Playtime
Bust out their favorite toys—feather wands, laser pointers, you name it. Your cat will be so busy trying to catch that pesky red dot they’ll forget about their hidey-hole.
🐾 Block the Bed with Furniture
Slide some storage boxes, suitcases, or anything sturdy under the bed to block access. No more secret hideaway, and they’ll have to find a new spot—preferably one you approve of.
🌞 Make the Bed Uninviting
Add something like double-sided tape or aluminum foil under the bed. Most cats hate the feeling or sound, and your bed will suddenly become the least attractive spot in the house.
🍽 Feed Them Away from the Bed
Move their food and water to another room. Cats are territorial about their food, so they’ll want to hang out near it—and not under your bed.
🛋 Invest in a Cat Tree
Cats love climbing and perching on high spots. A tall cat tree gives them a better view of their kingdom and is way cooler than your dusty under-the-bed world.
😹 Entice with Cat TV
Yes, it’s a thing. Set up a video of birds or fish on your TV or tablet. Place it somewhere away from the bed, and your cat will be glued to the screen in no time.
🛏 Change Your Bedding
If your cat hides due to unfamiliar smells, try washing your bedding with a new detergent. Sometimes, a fresh scent can make them rethink their hiding choices.
💨 Use a Feliway Diffuser
Feliway mimics feline facial pheromones, helping your cat feel safe and secure. Plug it in near their new hangout spot, and they’ll be chillin’ out in no time.
🚫 Close Off the Room
If possible, close the door to the bedroom when you’re not around. Out of sight, out of mind—your cat might just forget the bed is an option.
🧠 Train with Positive Reinforcement
When your cat comes out from under the bed, reward them with treats and affection. They’ll soon learn that being out and about gets them more attention and goodies.
🕯 Diffuse Calming Scents
Lavender or chamomile (cat-safe only) can have a calming effect on your cat. A relaxed cat is less likely to retreat under the bed.
🎭 Get a Playmate
Another cat might just do the trick! A furry friend can distract them from their hiding habits and give them a buddy to play with.
📦 Offer Multiple Hiding Spots
Give them more places to hide, like tunnels, caves, or even a closet they can access. The more options they have, the less likely they’ll choose the one spot you don’t want.
🧹 Regularly Clean Under the Bed
Cats often hide where they feel safe. By keeping under the bed clean and clear, it’s less appealing to them as a hideout.
🌟 Be Patient and Persistent
Remember, your cat’s behavior won’t change overnight. With patience and consistency, your furry friend will eventually abandon their hiding habit.
Cats can be mysterious little creatures, but with a bit of patience and a few smart strategies, you’ll have your kitty out from under the bed in no time. By creating a safe space, using positive reinforcement, and keeping them entertained, they’ll feel more confident and loved. 🐾
So, whether it’s Mr. Whiskers or Princess Fluffy, you’ll soon have them exploring the rest of the house instead of hiding away. 🏡
