Adopting A Very Shy or Feral Cat June2019
Adopting A Very Shy or Feral Cat June2019
Adopting A Very Shy or Feral Cat June2019
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How to Begin Interacting with a Shy Cat
Quality time with people is very important. Start out with:
• Very slow movements
• Quiet voices
• Eye contact with lots of blinking, as this reassures the cat of your friendly intent
• Yawning and slowly looking away to show you are not a threat
• Establishing a predictable routine
Next, you’ll want to help the cat get used to normal activities in your home. To do this, try the following:
• Read a book or magazine out loud or talk on the phone to friends so the cat gets used to your voice.
• Contrary to past beliefs, feral cats find human music an extra stress in their environment. There is music
specifically composed for cats called Music for Cats (https://www.musicforcats.com/the-science). This
species specific music uses feline-centric sounds and the benefits have been independently verified by
the Journal of Applied Animal Behaviour Science which shows cats prefer their own music!
• Sit or lay on the floor when talking to your new kitty. This posture is much less threatening than standing
above them.
• Show the cat anything new you bring into the room, whether a book, telephone or glass of water.
Cats are very curious and want to know that the new object is not a threat.
• Upon each visit, offer the cat one small tasty treat. This way, they begin to associate your visit with
something pleasant. You can use a long-handled spoon or stick to offer the treat. (Remember: You don’t
want to over indulge the cat with treats as this can lead to obesity. It is intended just to be a small reward).
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Integration from the Safe Room into the Rest of the Home
When you and your new cat have established a trusting relationship, the cat is ready to begin exploring your
home. Be sure to begin this process when you are home to supervise.
• Close most of the doors so the cat begins its orientation in stages. Too many new spaces at once will be
stressful and frightening.
• Do not let a shy cat into the basement for many weeks or they may hide in the rafters or other small,
dark places where you’ll be unable to work on socialization.
• Full house privileges may take 2-3 months depending on the personality of the cat.
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