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Cats/socialize a kitten

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Expert: - 11/30/2008


Question
Earlier today I “adopted” a pair of 6 month old kittens to keep them from being be euthanized.     Neither of the kittens has been properly socialized.   I live in a rural area – characterized by farmland and VERY little traffic.  “Barn” cats or “mousers” abound. The “mother cat” to these two kits is a “mouser” but she is also a friendly companion –pet to the elderly owner. In spite of the attention he gave the mother, the original owner did not attempt to socialize the kittens other than talking to them and feeding them. He didn’t even know the genders. One of the kittens is Godzilla-attack-kitty.     I plan to keep them as outside cats – but I’ve built a warm shelter for them – which they seem to have “taken to” already.  I want to take them to my veterinarian for a check-up, vaccinations and sterilization.  I can’t get near enough to them to find out their genders – and I certainly can’t take them to a vet when they are likely to attack him!  

Is it too late to socialize kittens this “old”? Is there hope that they might become friendly pets? How do I begin to earn their trust?  How long will it take?  I'm willing to spend time working with them but I don't know how to begin.  I've had cats before - they lived long, happy lives as my companions, but I'd never had to deal with unfriendly cats!

Answer
Hi Becky,

Yes there is time to socialize them. It will take a little effort on your part but it will be well worth it. Here's a great link that explains it for you.
http://www.wikihow.com/Tame-a-Feral-Cat

Remember, be patient. Also roasted chicken can be your best friend when socializing them. :) Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

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