new cat won't eat

[jennjoe]

we recently took in my boyfriend's parents' cat, about 4 years old. She is hiding in the basement and won't eat. We've left food and water in a safe place and I don't think she's touched it. I just checked her litter box and she has finally used it. I feel like I should let her hide for as long as she needs, but I don't want her to starve. Any suggestions about how to get her to eat, or to help soothe her?

[Mary_NH]

if she's pooping she'e eating. Nothing in, nothing out
I'd leave her alone and give her time. She's scared and confused.
Are you feeding her food she had before?
Maybe just go sit in the room with her, and quietly read giving her a chance to get used to your voice.
Time, patience and understanding helps....big change for her. It could take a little while for her to adjust.
Very nice of you to take her

[jennjoe]

Thanks Mary. i'll try the reading idea, and will just have to be patient. it's just breaking my heart i appreciate your input

[vene]

and welcome! Congrats on your new kitty! Yes, patience is the key. I felt the same way when we first got Monty boy. He was always hiding and thought he never ate but he used his litter consistently. It took awhile and he made friends with us eventually.

http://www.catsontheweb.org/new-home.htm

[EternalFlame]

It's hard, that's understandable. It'll be ok. just make sure the litter box is being used. Means there is drinking and eating going on.

Drinking is the most important. If there is no urination, i'd start to worry and see a vet. Can't live without fluids. other then that, could spend some time in the same room reading a book or whatever, maybe readingt he book TO the cat just to help get them used to your voice and presence. Have a treatie with you sitting nearby and eventually you'll see success