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Cats and kittens who weren't properly socialized before 12 weeks of age can still become confident, loving companions with a little extra time and patience.
Photo by Krista Menzel
NYC Eartips: Winter 2009
Tips for Adopters: Interacting with a Shy Cat or Kitten
Who Was Socialized Late
by Nancy Alusick, KittyKind,
and Kathleen Goward, Anjellicle
Cats
KittyKind occasionally finds itself with cats and kittens who are shy because they
were not socialized during the crucial ages of development — around
2–12 weeks. We have a number of volunteers who generously donate
their time to work with these cats so that they can be placed into permanent
homes. These volunteers use a technique which offers food as an incentive
for the cats to interact and ultimately seek affection from people.
The cats and kittens are placed in a small space, such
as a bathroom, where they can become accustomed to the presence of people.
The volunteer first places a plate of food a few feet from her and then
slowly, over time, moves the plate closer and closer. When the cats are
comfortable eating from a plate placed in close proximity, the volunteer
very gently begins to stroke the cat. The cats become accustomed to touch
and in time begin to seek out the attention of people.
We call these cats "Extra Special" because,
when they are adopted, their new guardians will need to take extra time
to acclimate the cats to their new environment and to actively interact
with them. It is important to play with the cats and feed them in a location
where the cats can be petted while they are eating. The cats will very
quickly bond with their new owners and, because they are "Extra Special,"
KittyKind will continue to provide extra advice and support to the new
owners.
Following are some tips to accelerate the process:
1) |
Cats are creatures of habit and love predictable
environments. During the first few days, avoid making loud or sudden
noises, and always leave an escape route for the cats so that they
feel they can protect themselves by retreating to a hiding place. |
2) |
Most cats will exhibit shy behavior when introduced
to new environments. Cats are cautious animals by nature and tend
to look for the protection and comfort of an environment where they
can fully or partially conceal themselves. As they become more accustomed
to the sights, sounds, people, and animals in the new space and
realize that they will not be physically harmed, they will leave
their hideaway and seek companionship and sustenance. |
3) |
When the cat has become comfortable eating from
the food dish, sit down a foot away from the dish and, after a few
moments, reach over from behind and gently stroke her. Never bring
your hand directly toward the cat's face, as this will startle her.
As your cat becomes accustomed to the petting, over time move the
food dish to different spots in your home. Cats are "site specific"
in that they associate certain behavior with various locations.
You cat will associate your affection with the food and with the
location of the food dish. Even when the food dish is removed, she
will think of the location as a safe spot to receive and give affection. |
4) |
Use toys to engage your cat or kitten in play.
Feather toys or string toys attached to poles are great devices
to coax your pet to come closer to you. |
5) |
Do not stare at your kitty. When you do make eye
contact, slowly lower your lids, blink, or close your eyes. You
will see him do the same in response. If he is nervous at your touch,
the stress can be reduced, if again, you close your eyes —
no predator kills with its eyes closed. In the natural world of
prey and predator, when one stares at the other, it means someone
is about to be someone else's dinner. DO make eye contact when you
have food, a treat, or a gift. |
6) |
Walk around with a ribbon tied behind you so that
your cat gets to feel like she is chasing you. If she approaches
to check you out, be still and let her investigate you. |
7) |
A hawk is a cat's natural enemy. Don't look like
one by swooping down on him. Your new kitty will like you best if
you are sitting on the floor or a couch where you can be at his
level. |
8) |
If your kitty runs when you pass her, pass her
with your back to her. |
9) |
NEVER yell at or punish your cat. |
10) |
Prepare in advance for any vet appointments by
serving the food in the carrier for a week or so before the appointment.
On the appointed day, wait for the cat to go in and close the door. |
11) |
When you pick him up, do it slowly and gently. |
Your cat's introduction will be a little slower. She may
require a little more effort, but once you've won her over, the bond is
even stronger and she will become the most special cat you've ever had.
It's all there waiting for the person who nurtures it.
About the Authors
Nancy Alusick was born and raised in New York City and has her own business in
visual display. Always one to care for stray cats, she became involved
as a volunteer with KittyKind several years ago. After taking Mike Phillips socialization seminar,
and with KittyKind's help, she has been able to change dozens of
initially very shy feral kitties into loving companions.
Kathleen Goward has been working in cat rescue for twelve years. She started out
by fostering cats and went on to be Treasurer for KittyKind from 2005 to 2007. In 2008 she wrote an award-winning proposal for
adopting special needs cats that was funded by Maddie's Fund. She
now works with Anjellicle
Cats and still does fostering and TNR.
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