Our Shy Cats
Most people do not think about adopting a shy cat, although if they'd scratch the surface, they can be mostly surprised at the gem that lies beneath, for even the shyest cat can be a playful, loving companion given enough time and patience to adjust and trust...perhaps for the first time in their lives.
Regardless of the circumstances bringing them to us, there is a commonality among shy cats as something happened in their past that makes lack or lose trust in people and they need our help to make a turnaround. For shy cats are not feral. They are tamed and genuinely enjoy the presence of people in calm, familiar settings but tend to be skittish and lukewarm about being handled, unless done in their own terms
Especially if you are looking for a companion for your cat, please consider a shy cat as they can form strong bonds with new cat playmates.
Although they might not know how to show it, the shy cats do need us, and the special bonds that develop, can be mutually rewarding for cat and human alike. Instant lap cats they are not and may never will be, but time and effort invested by even one kind person can help a shy cat blossom again and turn it into a great pet.
For more information on our shy cats, or should you wish to see and adopt one of the beauties below, please call Helena on 351-918149187 to arrange a visit.
IVY LOTUS
JASMINE IRIS
WILLOW DAISY
Tips to help a shy cat make the transition into your home
- Shy cats need to stay in a small room for quite some time. While this may sound cruel, it isn't. Shy or feral cats feel safe in small places. They should be introduced to larger spaces gradually.
- Shy cats need hideouts and covered baskets to sleep in and to watch all the goings on from.
- Quality time with people is very important. Start out with:
- Slow movements.
- A quiet voice.
- Eye contact, but blinking your eyes. Do not stare.
- Yawn and look away to show you are no threat.
- Be predictable and establish a routine.
- To help the cat get used to the activities in your home:
- Read a book loud, so the cat gets used to your voice.
- Play a radio quietly so the cat gets used to background noise.
- Lay on the floor and talk to the cat, so it gets used to your company being no threat.
- Show the cat any new thing you bring into the room as they are quite curious.
- To make life pleasurable for the cat, offer delicious treats with a long handled spoon - little bits of tuna or other irresistible good smelly foods.
- Start to touch:
- Use a wand toy or a stick with fleece at the end.
- Let the cat see the cat wand toy.
- Start touching the cat gently and slowly around the cheeks. (Perhaps this will be enough for the first few days or even longer)
- As the cat gets used to cheek touching, continue rubbing with the pet wand and start to move slowly towards the animal.
- Go slow and gradually build on each day's success. THis routine should be slow, it cannot be rushed.
The primary aim lies in teaching your shy cat that people aren't bad. This should be done with gentle encouragement, good care and attention.