Expert: Dear Tabbi - 6/9/2008

Question
About a month ago we adopted a cat from the SPCA. (miss.kitty, age: apx.2yrs) we were drawn to her because she talked alot and seemed very friendly. But when we brought miss.kitty home, we discovered she was very timid and afaird. she won't let anyone hold her, and she runs or jumps at anything. any advice?
thanks,
karmen.

Answer
Karmen,

You have a kitty that was taken from the world she knew into a world that is all new: new home, new people, new smells, etc. She is more than likely confused and frightened plus she is probably missing her kitty friends. Her actions and reactions right now are the result of fear and confusion.

You need to give the cat a chance to get to know you, gain confidence and trust, and get acclimated to her new home. Let her explore the home gradually, one room at the time. It is too overwhelming to have a whole big house at one time to be in.

Don't try to love on her, cuddle her, or touch her much until she learns to trust you. Food is a great bribe! Give her kitty treats like sardines (in oil), tuna, etc. and put the treats near you. Talk to her as much as you can, quietly and gently, but don't try to pet her when she comes to get them. Alternate that with ignoring her completely so if she wants affection she will come to you.

It is going to take time and patience. Don't rush her and try to make her sociable when she is not ready. If she had a feral parent, she may be lovable and social, but may not like to be held. That is a common trait.

A good icebreaker is a pet laser light (from PetSmart, Petco, etc.). It is an excellent way to interact with her without touching her. Cats love to chase the little "red bug" on the floors, ceilings, and walls. It will help build her confidence and also help with the bonding process between you and her.
Or get a long shoestring and pull it around.

Another suggestion would be to get another kitty about her age and temperment as a friend for her. A kitty needs a friend to play kitty games with, to cuddle with, to groom, be company when she she is alone, and comfort her. 2 cats are easier to take care of than one because a solitary kitty requires more of your attention and company to keep them amused. A single kitty also gets bored easily and can be destructive as a result.

It will work out fine, just have patience and be loving.

Tabbi