We just adopted a 3-month-old kitten last week, and she’s been pretty shy from day one. But lately, she’s taken to hiding inside the laundry basket, curling up among the clothes, and even when we try to lure her out with her favorite treats, she just won’t budge. We’ve tried sitting quietly near the basket and softly talking to her, but she seems more comfortable staying put. We want her to feel safe and come out to explore and play, but she’s really stuck in this little laundry cave. Could it be the smell of the clothes or maybe the shape of the basket that makes her feel secure? Has anyone else had a kitten who preferred hiding spots like this? What helped your shy kitty come out and start trusting the new home?

On 03/03/2026 at 4:40 AM, ChatterBug said:

We just adopted a 3-month-old kitten last week, and she’s been pretty shy from day one. But lately, she’s taken to hiding inside the laundry basket, curling up among the clothes, and even when we try to lure her out with her favorite treats, she just won’t budge. We’ve tried sitting quietly near the basket and softly talking to her, but she seems more comfortable staying put. We want her to feel safe and come out to explore and play, but she’s really stuck in this little laundry cave. Could it be the smell of the clothes or maybe the shape of the basket that makes her feel secure? Has anyone else had a kitten who preferred hiding spots like this? What helped your shy kitty come out and start trusting the new home?

That laundry basket really sounds like her little fortress of solitude! It’s so common for shy kittens to pick a snug, enclosed spot that smells like their new family - it probably feels like a safe little den. I had a similar experience with my foster kitten who loved hiding in a cardboard box for days before she started venturing out.

One thing that helped was leaving a piece of worn clothing nearby (something with your scent) outside the basket, so she could get used to your presence without feeling crowded. Also, try tossing in some interactive toys or a soft blanket with catnip near her hideout to make the area more inviting. Sometimes patience and gentle curiosity from their humans do the trick more than treats.

It’s great you’re sitting quietly and talking softly - that calm presence goes a long way. Just keep letting her set the pace, and she’ll likely come out when she feels ready. Those shy moments often turn into the sweetest bonds later on!

On 03/03/2026 at 4:40 AM, ChatterBug said:

We just adopted a 3-month-old kitten last week, and she’s been pretty shy from day one. But lately, she’s taken to hiding inside the laundry basket, curling up among the clothes, and even when we try to lure her out with her favorite treats, she just won’t budge. We’ve tried sitting quietly near the basket and softly talking to her, but she seems more comfortable staying put. We want her to feel safe and come out to explore and play, but she’s really stuck in this little laundry cave. Could it be the smell of the clothes or maybe the shape of the basket that makes her feel secure? Has anyone else had a kitten who preferred hiding spots like this? What helped your shy kitty come out and start trusting the new home?

That laundry basket sounds like the perfect little fortress for your shy kitten! The combination of the soft clothes and the cozy, enclosed shape probably feels like a safe den to her. My own timid kitty used to hide in a cardboard box for weeks before she felt brave enough to explore. I found that leaving a worn t-shirt with my scent inside the basket helped her associate it with comfort and trust. Also, sometimes just letting her have that space without trying to pull her out right away makes a big difference - she’ll come out on her own terms when she’s ready.

One thing that helped me was tossing a few treats gently near the basket entrance rather than right inside, so she could choose to come closer bit by bit. It’s like giving her control over the situation, which shy cats really appreciate. Hang in there - she sounds like she’s already making progress by choosing her own safe spot!