My friends mother asked me if i could watch her (10yr old cat) "casey" and if she is unable to have her back then im obviously not going to put her out.

Well, if you have her at your house, it is probably a completely different environment. She might be scared of the place. If she is at your friend's mother's house, than she might be scared of you. It isn't bad, just leave the room for a little while and peek in to see if she is using the litter box or eating. Every cat needs some encouragement, so get some treat or something that will drag her out from under the couch and try to pet her. Don't have any body language that says you are kind of afraid of her. Have a sincere look in your eyes that will tell the cat that you are being supportive. (If you don't have any treats, try cheese or some of her food.) Make sure is not pooping under the couch at all. It makes a huge mess that your friend's mother wouldn't be so happy about.

Okay, let me get this straight. Casey is 10 years old, and has suddenly gone from living in one place with one person to a totally strange environment, and you think that after three days she should be bouncing all over the place and socializing? This is a huge traumatic event for this cat, and you have to be patient. Give her time to adjust, and to investigate. Don't swoop down on her when she comes out. Make sure that she has a quiet place with clean water and food available, and a private spot for the litter box.

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In a couple of weeks she will feel more confident and will be out in the open. Be kind and don't make sudden lunges towards her, and when she comes to you, just stroke her and be very patient and loving.

vet