Expert: Kate Tilmouth - 2/1/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have left my home for 2 months for work and had to leave my cat with some very nice friends. They have another cat at their home and I thought he would be ok. I have contacted them and found out that since I left him he hasn't come out from under their staircase, hasn't eaten or had any of his water. It has been 3 days and i'm worried. Will he adjust to his new temporary surroundings? I am worried that he may never come out and will be miserable for 2 months until I can take him back home.

ANSWER: Hi
it is important that your friends introduce your cat to their in a way that they can all become more confident in each other. this will definitely help with the settling in period.

I have the process described on my web site here http://www.our-happy-cat.com/introducing-cats.html

I know it may a bit of a nuisance to have to do this but it will really help all the cats cope with the new situation and could make the whole stay a lot happier for all concerned.

best wishes Kate
http;//www.our-happy-cat.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for the information...unfortunatly i'm not there to ensure that this happens for both cats involved. can you let me know if hiding for a few days under beds and not coming out is normal and if this should subside after a while and allow my cat to be more comfortable for the short time he will be there?

Answer
Hi
well as he gets more comfortable with his new surroundings, smells, routine etc he should start to get his confidence back and start to come out from under the bed etc. But as I say how long this will take will very much depend on how he introduced to the new home.

lets hope he finds his feet soon.

best wishes Kate
http;//www.our-happy-cat.com