When a cat feels threatened or uncertain, their natural instinct is to seek refuge in a safe, hidden space. For many felines, this means retreating under the bed. While this behavior is common, allowing your cat to hide in inaccessible areas like under the bed can present challenges, particularly in emergencies and in hindering their personal growth. This article explores why it’s important to address this habit and provides practical solutions.
The Dangers of “The Unders”
Jackson Galaxy, a renowned cat behaviorist, refers to these inaccessible hiding spots as “the unders.” He strongly advises against them, stating, “If you’ve got cats, you should not have unders.” His reasoning is twofold: safety and a cat’s development. If a cat consistently hides under the bed during stressful situations, it becomes impossible to reach them in a genuine emergency. There are heartbreaking accounts of cat owners unable to retrieve their pets from under furniture when forced to evacuate their homes quickly.
Furthermore, allowing a cat to always retreat to “the unders” prevents them from learning to confront and overcome their fears. As Galaxy explains, “Whether your child has two legs or four, what all parents want for them is to be the greatest version of themselves possible. This can’t be done while cats are caving (hiding) and while we unwittingly reinforce it.” Providing challenges, alongside comfort, is essential for a pet’s growth and confidence.
I personally experienced the reality of this when my cat, Ruby, became ill towards the end of her life. She would sometimes hide under the bed, specifically near the headboard. The thought of her passing away alone in such a hard-to-reach place was unbearable. This prompted me to finally take action and block off these “unders” in my home.
Strategies to Block Access Under Your Bed
Fortunately, there are several effective methods to prevent your cat from accessing the space under your bed or any other furniture they might frequent.
Offer Alternative Safe Havens
If your cat considers under the bed their primary safe space, it’s crucial to provide them with suitable alternatives. This ensures they still have a place to retreat when feeling anxious. Options include:
- Cardboard boxes
- Covered cat beds
- Cozy cat caves
These provide the sense of security that your cat craves without the associated risks. For more ideas on creating a secure environment, consider resources on kittens hiding in new home situations.
My Approach to Blocking “The Unders”
In my own home, I combined under-bed storage containers with pillows to create barriers. Body pillows proved particularly effective due to their length and flexibility. While they didn’t perfectly span the width of my queen-size bed, they were easier to maneuver into place than some of the rigid storage containers.
My goal wasn’t to completely seal off the area, as I still wanted Allegra to have a place to go if something startled her. I managed to block off most of the space, leaving an opening of about a foot at the end of the bed. This way, she can still retreat, and the bed skirt offers a “cave effect,” but I can easily reach her if necessary. This compromise allows her to feel secure while maintaining accessibility for safety.
Encouraging Confident Behavior
Addressing your cat’s hiding behavior is not just about preventing potential problems; it’s about fostering a more confident and well-adjusted companion. By providing safe alternatives and gently discouraging the use of inaccessible hiding spots, you empower your cat to face challenges and develop greater self-assurance. Learning about your cat’s behavior can be an ongoing journey. If you notice your cat exhibiting signs of distress, such as my cat won’t stop meowing, it might indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.
Conclusion
Preventing your cat from hiding under the bed is a vital step in ensuring their safety and promoting their well-being. By implementing simple yet effective strategies, you can create a more secure environment for your feline friend, encouraging them to be more comfortable and confident in their surroundings. Remember, a secure cat is often a happier cat.
*This post contains affiliate links. Purrs of Wisdom is an affiliate partner of Jackson Galaxy and a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We only recommend products we trust.
Image via Pixabay
