PLEASE HELP! American curl with strange new environment behavior!

[Kimmimcd77]

We acquired a new kitty, meant to be a service/comfort animal for our 4 year old with autism, he is a young adult and I don't think that the previous owners realized (as I've found from googling) that he is an American Curl and quite rare! From what I read, they are intelligent, VERY loving, and easy to transition into a new environment. This baby IS incredibly affectionate but he is SO skittish. It may be that we have a very old, small breed dog that gave a hell raising when he was first introduced...but this kitty will not come out of my son's room and mostly is hiding under beds when he is in there. When he feels safe, he will come out and love on us heavy and explore (within the room he won't leave). It's only been two days, but I'm worried because I've read that this breed can have separation anxiety AND over the years I've experienced a ton of cats being introduced to a new home without ever noticing such severe, initial skittishness. I don't want to break his sweet heart! He is eating, drinking, and using the litter box...I want to introduce him to the rest of the house and feel comfortable. I've tried to gently bring him out of the room a couple of times...he seemed calm but stressed and intensely listening/looking around before running back upstairs and under a bed. He IS very calm and patient with my young child(in said room), who is quite excited and bouncing around him. He doesn't even flinch! Just any other foreign noises(downstairs noises, mostly)

 

[Kimmimcd77]

Any ideas to help my anxiety of him being sad to be here?

 

[goingpostal]

At two days in your house, this is normal, especially with a scary dog in the house. Does he have the ability to explore the house at night, with the dog locked away and everyone asleep? Most cats will explore then at their own pace and feel more comfortable with time. Do you know if he had been around dogs before? Have you looked into ways to safely integrate dogs and cats? It can take quite a while and some will never get along, I had a cat that forever hated my dogs.

 

[di and bob]

Yes, completely normal. Cats can hide after being moved to a new environment for weeks. It takes time for them to get used to a new home. He most likely isn't used to dogs, but small dogs are usually accepted quicker. Having a dog may delay things. Just give him space, don't force him into leaving the room, let him explore on his own terms. It may take several weeks, but he WILL come around!

 

[Kimmimcd77]

Thank you for the replies! I believe that at least recently, he hasn't been around dogs only other cats. We do have a bunch of baby gates and have set up our pup downstairs in his own little area at night while the new kitty is baby gated in the upstairs with us. Last night I noticed that he was up and about the upstairs, checking things out! I'm probably just worrying too much! Postal, your Curl kitty is adorable, by the way!!

 

[Kimmimcd77]

Oh! Maybe your kitty is a Bengal? He looked curled but now I see it's just the way he's holding his ears!! Lol!! Gorgeous baby!!!

 

[LTS3]

TCS has some articles that will help:

Stress in Cats - The Ultimate Guide - TheCatSite

Discover the ultimate guide to understanding and managing stress in cats. Learn about the common causes, signs, and effective strategies.

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How To Get A Cat To Come Out Of Hiding? [Answered] - TheCatSite

Ready to play detective in your own home? Is your normally sociable pet playing hide and seek a little too enthusiastically? This article is the ultimate guide to coaxing out a mysteriously disappearing cat, understanding why they're hiding, and how you can help them feel safe. While you might...

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How To Safely Introduce A Cat And A Dog - TheCatSite

Learn how to introduce a cat and a dog successfully in this comprehensive guide. Explore step-by-step strategies and expert tips!

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Timid cats can be a challenge, but we've got you covered. Read insights from 16 top cat experts as they share invaluable tips for understanding, caring for, and building trust with your shy feline friend.

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10 Must-know Tips For Happy Living With A Shy Cat - TheCatSite

Living with a shy cat can be a unique and rewarding experience. Discover practical tips for understanding your timid feline's behavior.

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How To Mix Cats And Kids The Right Way - TheCatSite

Thinking of getting a cat? How about your kids? Are you wondering how to mix cats and kids the right way? Discover the secrets to successfully introducing a cat to children in this informative article. Learn the best practices and techniques for creating a harmonious bond between your beloved...

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I'm not sure if your cat is an American Curl. Here's info on the breed and characteristics: American Curl – The Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc Your cat looks more like a domestic shorthair but just as adorable and lovable as a purebred

 

[Kimmimcd77]

Okay! I will check these out!! Here's a better view of the ears!

 

[goingpostal]

Oh! Maybe your kitty is a Bengal? He looked curled but now I see it's just the way he's holding his ears!! Lol!! Gorgeous baby!!!

She's a Highlander actually and thanks! She gets mighty ticked off with new animals but adjusts fasts and is very dog friendly if they are, hopefully your new kitty will end up as animal social once he settles in a bit.