Expert: Becky - 7/11/2006

Question
Hello, my boyfriend and I just acquired Rosco the Cat. My boyfriend's Grandfather can no longer take care of Rosco. He's 7 years old in September.His Breed is Dsh (whatever that means) He was very well taken care of. We've had him for two days and he seems traumitized. He hasn't eaten yet and right now he's in the kitchen above the cabinets and he's there to stay it seems. This seems as if it would be normal but my question is, is there anything I can do to ease his transition. Anything you can help me with would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Eric,
"DSH" stand for Domestic Shorhair, in other words...a cat of no specific breed and some people would say that they are the best kind!  
Rosco is scared and not sure yet of his surroundings.  He doesn't know yet if he can trust you.  Cats do NOT like change, so he is also stressed out.  The best thing you can do is leave him alone.  Talk gently to him when you go into the kitchen, but do not attempt to make him come down.  Leave fresh food and water out for him every day. He will come down when you go to bed to eat.  He will eventually learn to trust you if you take it slow. Give him the time to get used to a new home and I bet he becomes a great pet!

God Bless,
Becky