Question
I just got a new 1 year old cat on January 31st 2021. He's of course hiding, which is understandable. He's a domestic medium hair cat.
Last night I went to sleep and he just kept meowing like crazy, my boyfriend went to check on him in his bed and he was fine, so we let him be.
Today as of right now at 9:47pm he has not stopped meowing under the couch. I went to check on him and he seemed fine. I slowly brought my hand towards him and he hissed, so I let him be. However, now he's just keeps meowing they almost sound like howling meows. Please someone answer as soon as possible! I'm starting to get worried for him!
Answer
This is unfortunate, but nothing to worry about.
Of course the new surroundings and new people scare him at first. If the cat was taken from his own family (his parents or siblings), he might be calling for them. If he was taken from another human, he might be calling for them. He's basically trying to find his former home and family by calling them.
Unfortunately this is the time where you might unintentionally teach him bad habits. If you go looking for him every time he meows, he'll learn that later, when he's used to having you as his family, he can summon you by meowing for any reason. Looking for him just once after he meowed for a while is ok, but don't run to him as soon as you hear him.
His meowing should stop after a week, two at most. I know from experience that it's heart wrenching, but as long as he didn't get used to you and trusts you, there's nothing you can do.
You can try making him more comfortable by offering him more hiding spots. Cats love elevated places like tables, windowsills and shelves. Most cats also feel very safe and comfortable in a cardboard box with a bit of padding.
Answered By - Elmy