5 Tips For Getting A Shy Cat to Come To You
Do you have a shy cat? This is one blog that may help you achieve coming home to a not so shy cat.New cat owners occasionally find themselves in awkward situations when their newly adopted cats or kittens fail to respond to their call. You are excited about your new cat and open up your arms to the furry companions but as soon you stretch your arms, they flee. Such shy cats in most cases were not well socialized during the critical development ages, underwent a traumatizing event or possess a genetic predisposition to being shy or fearful to human beings. Shy cats are not something that should worry you. It, however, needs undivided attention and persistence before the cat gets used to you.
Signs of shy cat include:
• Hiding under the bed and sofas.
• Peeing at inappropriate places.
• Running away when approached.
The tips below, if followed will help you overcome your little problem.
1.) Understand that it is normal for new cats to be shy.
As a first step, you should know that neither you nor the cat is to blame. Cats are cautious by nature until they get accustomed to owners, sounds, and sights. Adopting a new cat means that you may not be conversant with their past life. Maybe they were traumatized, and opening up to new people is not easy for them. Cats, just like humans have emotions, and they express them.
2.) Perseverance.
As a cat owner, you should not be in a hurry to make everything normal. Give the cat a little more time. A cat needs more time to adjust and get acclimated to their new surroundings, and that includes you. Some people give up at a time when their cats need them most. Learn to understand your cat’s facial expressions, body language, and vocalizations. Commitment coupled with compassion will fuel your desire to get to know your cat better. After a while, they will come out and begin exploration.
3.) Start small and grow gradually.
As mentioned, a new cat in a new surrounding is a confused cat. Don’t rush into getting to interact your cat. Let cats familiarize themselves with a small space first. Make sure you include the essentials i.e. water, food and litter box. They will view this area as their territory which will help them cope better, be more confident and comfortable. Getting to spend more time with them will show them you friendly side, which means that they will stop viewing you as a threat or an enemy. Avoid too many noises as they will terrify them. Instead, talk to them in a low, soothing voice. I also recommend singing. You can mention their name and sing her lullabies, the same way you would do to a child.
4.) Introduce treats.
Gifts include favorite food and toys. Tasty food always excites timid cats. Before and after engaging in activity or interaction, use treats to lure them. If for instance, they are in their hiding spots, call them by their names while showing them food. Don’t force a cat out of a hiding place as this will break the bond you have already created. With time, they will learn to perform an activity in expectation of a treat.
5.) Understand that cats are different and progress at different speeds.
There are various breeds of cats with different temperaments. If you have concerns, consult with a vet for more advice. It is easier and quicker to train kittens than adult cats.