Symptom triage · cats, rabbits and small pets
Hiding and behaviour changes
Hiding or behaving unlike themselves
Quick answer
PETHEALTH+ rates hiding and behaviour changes as not usually an emergency — book a routine vet appointment in the next day or two. See the linked UK guides for likely causes and what to do, or use the free symptom checker for instant triage. Information only, not a diagnosis.
Guides for hiding and behaviour changes
Cats
Why Is My Cat Hiding?
**Cats hide by instinct — under beds, in wardrobes, or high shelves.** Normal hiding in a secure spot with regular eating is fine.
Rabbits
Rabbit Care in the UK
UK pet rabbits need a **hay-first diet** (85%+ hay), companionship, daily exercise, and annual vaccination against myxomatosis and RVHD.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is hiding and behaviour changes an emergency in pets?
- Not usually an emergency, but it does need a vet. Book a routine appointment in the next day or two, sooner if your pet stops eating or deteriorates.
- Which pets does hiding and behaviour changes affect?
- This triage topic applies to cats, rabbits and small pets. If your pet shows these signs, use the free PETHEALTH+ symptom checker for instant triage or phone your vet.
- What should I do right now?
- PETHEALTH+ rates this as not usually an emergency — book a routine vet appointment in the next day or two. The guides linked on this page explain likely causes and what your vet may suggest. Information only, not a diagnosis.
Not sure how urgent it is?
Answer two questions and the free PETHEALTH+ symptom checker will tell you whether to phone a vet now, today, or monitor at home.