Expert: Becky - 2/7/2005

Question
Hi,
I purchased 2 12 week old male seal point siamese kittens last week. The kittens were brought home and eat fine, play fine, use the litter box fine, but are afraid of my wife and I. They will play up to a foot or 2 of us, but if we pick one up they scream and struggle, clearly terrified. We bought these cats from a cattery that said they were handled every day, but doubt it. We love the guys already, so how can we get them to trust us, want to be around us, and enjoy being picked up and petted. Help! Many thanks for your help, Austin Hendricks
ahbudton@aol.cm

Answer
Hello Austin,

It is obvious that thses kittens were NOT handled and the breeder is only in it for the money. It's so sad too, because kitens are so sweet and loveable.  They were probably in a cage up until you "rescued" them!!  There is hope though, so don't be dismayed, but it will take some time.  Buy some kitten treats, or even small bits of cooked beef, chicken or tuna will work to entice them. Use them to get them closer to you.  They need to learn to trust you.  Don't expect them to eat it out of your hand at first,although they might surprise you.  Every day, try feeding them bits of these treats.  It might be more effective if you skip their meal and make this their evening or morning meal (whenever is best for you).  Get them into a small room where they must be close to you.  A bathroom may be too small, depending on yours. With some patience, I think you will win them over.  The whole thing is trust, and I think they will eventually come around.  You can slowly get them used to being held... eventually holding them a little every day talking gently and petting them.  It is so sad that a breeder would not take the time to pet and love kittens before selling them.   It sickens me what people do for money.
With a little patience and lots of love, I think you will do fine.
God Bless,
Becky