Cats are quiet animals, but they often spend time hiding. Is there a specific reason? Find out

Anyone who has had the chance to live with a cat knows that these animals have peculiar habits. They can be affectionate and companionable, but they often prefer to stay away and be alone in quiet corners of the house, such as touch for felines or cardboard boxes.

This behavior may puzzle owners, who often associate isolation with sadness or discomfort. But for cats, the act of isolating themselves is closely linked to their nature and to several aspects of their physical and emotional well-being. In this article, we will explore some of the main reasons that explain why cats isolate themselves and how this is essential for their health and quality of life.

1 - Hunting and survival instinct

One of the main behaviors associated with this instinct is hiding to observe their “prey” and ensure that they are not detected by larger predators. When your cat isolates itself in a corner of the house, it is, in fact, following this natural instinct of seeking safety and observation. It is a behavior inherited from its wild ancestors.

This instinct also makes them withdraw when they are not feeling well, since in nature, showing signs of weakness would make them vulnerable. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to your cat's isolation behavior to differentiate whether it is a natural need or a sign that something is not right.

2. Territoriality

By retreating to specific places, the cat is reaffirming its territoriality over that environment. In addition, the act of isolating itself helps them avoid conflicts with other cats or even with humans, especially if they are in a more sensitive or stressed phase.

This territoriality can also be seen in the choice of hiding places, which are often high up or away from busy areas of the house. These spots provide a panoramic view of the environment, which allows them to observe everything from a distance, without being disturbed.

3. Individual personality

Just like humans, each cat has a unique personality. Some are naturally more sociable and are always around, while others are more introspective and prefer to be alone. This is part of the feline behavior spectrum and should be respected.

Additionally, it is common for cats' behavior to change over time. Older cats, for example, tend to isolate themselves more, both because of their age and because they feel a greater need for rest.

4. Need for rest

Cats are masters at conserving energy. They sleep an average of 12 to 16 hours a day, and this sleep is essential for their health. Much of this rest occurs during times of isolation.

This resting time also plays an important role in regulating cats' body temperature. Warmer places, such as under blankets or near windows with sunlight, are chosen by cats to ensure thermal comfort, which makes isolation a strategy for maintaining physical well-being.

5. Stress reduction

The environment in which a cat lives can sometimes be stressful. Loud noises, unfamiliar visitors or even the arrival of new pets are factors that can cause anxiety. When a cat isolates itself, it seeks to regain its emotional balance, looking for a place where it feels in complete control and protected.

Providing your cat with a calm environment and adequate hiding places is essential to help them cope with these stressful situations. A good example is providing cardboard boxes or dens, which give your cat a safe haven where they can go whenever they need a moment of peace.

How to make the environment suitable for your cat

Understanding that isolation is a natural need for your cat is the first step to creating a suitable environment. Here are some tips that can help:

• Create safe havens: provide your cat with quiet, uncrowded places where they can isolate themselves whenever they feel the need. Boxes, high beds or dens are ideal options;
• Respect your cat's space: when your cat is isolated, avoid forcing interactions. Your cat needs moments to rest and recharge its energy, and interrupting these periods can increase stress;
• Keep the environment calm: reduce loud noises and intense movements in the house, especially in areas that the cat usually uses as a refuge;
• Provide toys and stimulation: Although isolation is a necessity, cats also need moments of mental and physical stimulation. Toys and scratching posts can help balance these periods.