New rescue kitty hiding constantly - litter box worries?

Hey everyone, just adopted a 2-year-old rescue cat yesterday. She's super sweet but SO shy - she's been hiding under the bed since we got home and hasn't used the litter box yet. I'm worried she might have an accident or develop bad habits. I put the box in a quiet corner with low-traffic, but maybe it's too exposed? Any advice for helping a nervous newbie feel comfortable enough to use the box? I'm panicking a little!

First off, take a deep breath! This is totally normal rescue behavior - especially in the first 48 hours. With dogs AND cats, the rule is: let them set the pace. For litter boxes, I'd actually suggest putting a SECOND box somewhere even more secluded, like a bathroom or closet with the door cracked. Sometimes having options helps. Also, make sure you're using unscented litter - scented stuff can overwhelm sensitive noses. Give her time to decompress before you worry about accidents.

Not a cat expert but as a reptile guy - hiding is a stress response. With my snakes, I provide multiple hides so they feel secure moving between them. Maybe create a 'safe path' to the litter box using cardboard boxes or furniture so she doesn't feel exposed traveling there? Also, what substrate/litter are you using? Some animals are picky about texture. My bearded dragon refused to poop on certain sands until I found the right one.

BoxerBill has a point about texture! My geckos are the same. For cats, I've heard that some resces prefer finer-grain litter because it's softer on their paws. Also, is the box covered or uncovered? Covered boxes can feel safer but also trap smells. Maybe try both types? And +1 to AkitaAlice about unscented litter - my friend's cat refused to use pine-scented stuff for weeks. Give her some treats near the box to create positive associations!

Great points everyone! OP, I'd add: don't hover or watch her. Cats need privacy for bathroom stuff. If she hasn't gone in 24 more hours, you could try confining her to a smaller room (like a bathroom) with the box, food, and water - sometimes less space = less anxiety. But honestly, most rescues figure it out within a day or two once they realize they're safe. Keep us updated!