I just volunteered to socialize at a cat shelter and yes, shy cats are so loving when they come out of their shell. My current boy took a few months and a little help with a prescription. He loves to be on my lap and be held like a baby. I got a few shy cats to come out at the shelter, one hid in his litter box and another under her blanket. I gave them extra time and treats, they are now really loving affectionate kitties. Don't overlook the shy ones.
Thank you so much. I adopted a shy cat today, and it breaks my heart about how shy he is. He is a beautiful, sweet cat, and I am going to be as patient with him as he needs. I'd hate it if he was afraid of me.
THIS WORKS, I adopted a 2 year old stray cat that was hit by a car and has a neurological deficit. He has a permanent head tilt and sometimes has wobbly wobbles, I put him in my room with everything, and I would stay in there on my bed, I basically ignored him most of the time, didn't bother him but I would give him lick lix he was petrified and I was told if I didn't take him he would be euthanized. I did everything, including the slow blink he is now jumping on my bed, purring rubbing on me. I wanted to give him access to the rest of my flat, so I am not going to force him, I think I will do it when I'm home. I will just open the doors and allow him to come out at his time. I can't believe the change in maximillion, and I'm so happy and proud of him
I just started fostering and my foster cat is suuuuppper shy and she doesn’t want to come out of her carrier 😭 - I’m hoping she comes out of her shell ❤
@samantha.mariam I feel your stress, it works I promise my cat is now on my bed ge comes when I call him, he has been in my room only, today I have opened up all the doors to the rest of my home, we will see.
@samantha.mariam i opened the doors today and he is hiding under my bed so I just closed the door, it's hard I know, but it will happen they feel our ❤️,
This is a great video. We just adopted 2 very shy cats from a shelter a week ago. They were feral kittens and spent almost 2 years at the shelter as they're so shy. We visited them for months at the shelter to get to know them. The shelter staff warned us they would "regress", which they have. They were so frightened the first 24 hours they wouldn't eat. They were in shock. I blocked off under the bed and under one of the dressers before getting them (the other dresser is not against a wall and is easy to reach under). The first couple days they were hiding a lot behind the dresser against the wall. Your suggestion to put a sheet on a cat tree is brilliant. Now, at 1 week, they are hanging out a lot on that cat tree under the sheet. They rarely go behind the dresser anymore as they have the cat tree plus other hiding spots that I provided--caves and tents. And they are now eating normally and using the litterbox.
We had a breakthrough with our shy cat Luna, we adopted 2 months ago. Last night I was taking a nap on the couch and she climbed on me (never happened before) and purred (never happened before) when I pet her. She didn't purr loud but loud enough. She is finally beginning to trust us and feel comfortable with her surroundings. We also have a kitten who is a bundle of energy. They get along great so I think our other cat is helping Luna feel at home.
I lost my second feline son to cancer who was shy and adopted another boy some time after. But he is extremely shy. Would not come out of hiding and would tighten up like an armadillo just touching him. With patience and love he got better but still buried his head in a box. First trip to vet he ran around exam room to hide so bad the vet prescribed buspirone. It takes a couple months to work, we're one month in now. I hope he comes around. He is a gentle boy, as scared as he was he didn't snarl, bite or scratch. Before the vet he loves pets and chin scratches, with a head bump once or twice but only in his box. I look forward to cuddling with him on the couch with my daughter cat.
I adopted a shy and scared cat. This makes me feel better and know Im not wrong. Youre welcome btw! 🥹🥹🥹 I want to be better at this so I can foster more shy cats and get them ready for a new home.
I have a cat that's about a year and a half old. I got her when she was half grown. She has a lot of fear and I suspect she was abused before I got her. I've been spending time with her and showing a lot of love. She is making some progress after several months. In the beginning she would not even come out and eat her food if I was in the room. Now she does. She used to run and hide from me all the time. Now I can set her on chair next to me and she will lay there. When I pet her she really lights up and begins to purr and butts her head against my hand. She really likes the kindness and is showing it. So I'm encouraged that I am seeing progress even though it's coming slowly. I really hope to see her lose all the fear eventually. She has areas that she feels safe in. However I'm trying to teach her that the whole house is safe. I take her into my office and spend time with her and she's doing very well. Sometimes I will take her and do other areas of the house and sit down on the floor with her and spend time. I pet her and she really likes that and begins purring. In the beginning she didn't even purr. But she really is a sweet cat and she is finally after several months beginning to do better. I have a high perch for her and she really likes it there and feels safe. But I'm trying to help her understand everywhere in this house is safe. I'm guessing that she equates a certain things here with what she experienced in the past. So I'm working to give her a better and happier future. I bought a big bag of toys for her a while back and I play with her to get her to be happy. I believe the happier she is the more those fears will fade away.
I love the care & dedication you clearly have. My only advice is to not pick her up & bring her places, instead allow her to go to the places on her own when she is ready. I actually advice all cat guardians to not pick their cats up unless they want that, as most dont. And indeed, the more safe she feels, the less fear she will experience. 💜
Thank you so so much for this. Wanna do right by my shy old man we just adopted. He's been failed by humans in the past. Never again thanks to your help.
I adopted a shy cat yesterday it was my birthday so I wanted to welcome a furry friend into my home he’s not mean or aggressive he’s a sweet cat but he’s just scared I saw him just suffering in the shelter and I knew he was just coming home with us that day.
Just adopted and shy 1year 2 month old short hair dilute calico, so beautiful . She has so much love to offer it's beyond amazing! Thank you for the covering the tower with a sheet tip, it worked!!! I covered the tower last night and success, she was in the tower this morning❤. Thank you so so much:)
just watched you video , I will try to a mummy cat that we just rescued with her kittens and she’s so afraid of us ! kittens are fine very social but she’s really nervous thank you
Interesting video and nice to know i'm essentially doing it right .Although I will say that I think adding a synthetic cat hormone diffuser to the safe space has helped .I'm on day 4 of settling a very nervous little 1 yr old female (spayed) who came from a home with lots of cats and several small kids .She has her quiet room and hiding spot with a folded blanket ,her food ,litter and water etc and is slowly becoming more comfortable .My go to bribe has been a little cooked chicken breast ,she loves that and will hopefully decide she loves the person who gives it to her .I'm currently giving her a clear 3 or 4 hours in the afternoon when I don't go into the room so she can have a quiet nap or explore without interruption .Otherwise I do several short visits in the morning and evening to bring her wet food (or chicken ) let her come to me for pets ,exchange some slow blinks (More me than her but never mind ) and offer interaction with toys .
This is so good. Currently, I find myself in a position,I’m concerned about. I’ve had a cat all my life and recently my cat died so I’ve been babysitting the cats in the neighborhood. Last night, my girlfriend dropped off her sister‘s cat to care for for 5 days and he’s been in hiding since he arrived. I understand consent and I’m not worried *now* because it’s only been one day and I have two litter boxes which he seems to have used. I did not keep him confined to one room, but rather closed off rooms in my home instead. Not the best choice, I understand now. I’ve put food out in the kitchen where the hub of activity (just me) is, along with treats and water in the living room where I’ve been playing animal friendly TV. He doesn’t seem to respond to the cat sounds that I used for my other babysitting jobs and I would love some advice on where to put the food. I don’t want to put it near the litter boxes, but since he’s used them already, would it make sense to put them about 10 feet apart?
Very helpful video! I'm going to adopt a really shy cat who has been spending way too much time at the shelter and this video really helped me with my preparations, thank you!
This is a really good and informative video, Shani. I thought I knew pretty much everything about cats, but there’s a lot of information here I didn’t know- for instance, about the “slow blink”. I’m definitely going to try it on the cats that stay in our hospital! Thanks for sharing and caring!
I just trapped a mama cat and her single 5 week kitten where I work. We weren’t sure if the mama was feral or not, so I took her after she was spayed and got all her health care, and it turns out, she isn’t feral. Just scared to death….but likes being petted, and she purrs and makes eye contact. She’s only about 1 year old, and has probably been on her own for about 8 or 9 months. Easy to find a home for the kitten, and then an angel I work with offered to give the mama a home. I know it’s going to take time…..but I’m so worried about her. First someone (me) took her baby, then she got lured into a trap, then the scary process of surgery, then going to the rescue, then to my house, then her new home. She spends most of her time hiding, plasters herself against a wall or the back of the crate. The woman who took her texted me this morning and said she stopped eating as of Sunday night. Now she has to go to the vet today. Poor kitty.
In the future you should leave mom & baby outside until the baby/babies are 2 months old. You may try to re-home the kittens after they are at least 2 months old (but also realize that may not be best for them) but mom should be TNR'ed.
@@WildAtHeartCats the vet found nothing wrong, thinks it’s just all the trauma she’s been through in her short life. She ate chicken today and some dry food today. Wouldn’t a kitten two months old be harder or even impossible to tame? If he even survived that long. Lots of foxes, coyotes, hawks, and owls around. And, a lot of my coworkers were trying to catch the kitten. The types of people who love kittens but later say “oh, she/he ran away” or 6 months later cat is pregnant and they are looking for someone to take yet MORE kittens. As for the mother, she isn’t feral…so why TNR her? I would have loved to have been able to keep mama and baby together in a safe place, but it just couldn’t happen that way - but in the end, I think they are both better off.
@@geslinam9703 Research proves that kittens left with their mom for 12-14 weeks fair better behaviorally & medically. The death rate for kittens taken from their moms too soon is extremely high. No one can care better for that kitten but their mom. ALL adult community cats, whether they are socialized or not should be TNR'ed.
@@WildAtHeartCats I understand that it’s best for kittens to be fully raised by their mothers. That makes perfect sense, and I considered it before taking her….but weighing the risks, the kitten was not safe where it was. Someone else would have taken it, or it would have been killed. And I’m surprised you would think that any cat except for a true feral is better left to the outdoors. Should I have just ignored all the street cats I’ve taken in over the years and went and bought kittens instead? The kitten is doing great. We went to the vet today, has put on weight, eating well, playful and energetic, using litter box and doing all the things a kitten her age should be doing. The mother started eating again after a few days and is coming out of her shell, exploring more of her new home every day, accepting affection.
Thank you so much! I've adopted a bonded pair and Schooner the sister is super shy and her brother Keith won't leave her even though I think he is more curious. I'm so glad they have each other but this video is so helpful. Imma get out of their business lol ..I feel like I have a much better idea of what will help them adjust. Much appreciated ❤
We just got a shy cat last night from a friend who can't take care of him anymore. We didn't know about inappropriate hide places, so we set his safe room up in our closet, but now he is hiding way up on the top shelf behind some luggage. If I needed to get him down I would have to use a ladder, but I want him to stay confident! How should I deal with this situation? I tried to give him a treat and he hissed at me... but there's evidence he came down to use the litterbox and to drink sometime during the night!
Just leave him be. I would open the closet & allow access to a room as a closet may be too small. Not sure how big it is. But just bring him treats & yummy wet food at a distance & leave them. No expectations. He needs time to adjust. You can slowly try to play.
@@WildAtHeartCatsThank you, that’s reassuring! The closet is a big walk-in, there’s a ton of space in there. I had apartments in college smaller than that :) I’m leaving the door cracked open too so he can go to the master bathroom or our bedroom.
Just leave him be until he comes out on his own. Make sure he has plenty of alternative hide spots & if possible block that spot. But dont stress too much. You go this.
I have a question!! My foster cat was basically just existing in a house for the last 10 years with little human interaction. I’ve had her for over a month and she’s relatively comfortable in her room (I have a camera in the room) however she will not come out of her hiding box when I’m in the room. I’ve implemented all of your tips but I have a question about our socialization visits. I use a feather to pet her to give a little space but after a minute or two she will hiss at me and start flapping her tail. I know she’s upset and uncomfortable so should I end our visit when she hisses and just try again the next day? She’s never been aggressive towards me but even when I get down on the ground level with her box and just talk to her no touching, she freezes up and starts licking her lips. I know she’s scared and just needs more time, do you have any advice? Thank you!
hi thank you so much for the tips! I have a question- my new shy cat loves hiding in one of those donut tunnel beds - is that an appropriate hiding place for her? She hides in the back where she can’t see me, and I worry I won’t be able to socialize her with slow blinks if she cant see me.
Its totally appropriate & the more time & space you give her the better. Allowing her to come to you will increase the trust & bond. Keep giving her high value treats/wet food with no expectations of an interaction. Try some play!
I just got my new kitten yesterday and she literally went under and somehow got into the spring box. She came out today for like 15 min or so. Now my question is how can Iure her into the carrier box so I can block off under the bed and under my dresser? I should also mention, that I’m also scared of her stretching me. Lol
If she willingly comes out I wouldnt overly stress her out by trying to get her into a carrier to block access. Provide appropriate hiding places, work on building trust. She will eventually come out & you can try blocking that area.
I have two six month old slightly under-socialized kittens (brothers) that have been with me for three months. One still doesn’t tolerate much affection or attention and often bolts away. He plays and has moments of semi- confidence but he’s always on edge/eyes dilated. I’ve noticed that although the two kittens get along and like each other, he is more confident playing with me when his brother isn’t around. He’ll also allow me to pet him just a bit more when his brother isn’t around (I don’t get it).So my question is: since I don’t have any rooms in my apartment (loft) and they’re already used to being out in the apartment/on their cat trees/playing in their tunnels, do I need to try to do this in the bathroom? They meow to get out when they’re in there because they’re used to being out. When I brought them home, I made the mistake of not doing this and just let them out in the house right away 🤦🏻♀️ And 2. Do I need to lock his brother in the bathroom while I play with him outside in the rest of the apartment? I just really want to help this scared kitty become more confident to make sure he feels safe and has as much kitty mojo as he is capable of having. I’ll love him either way, but I want him to feel super happy here.
I would not lock them in the bathroom but I think its ok to separate cats for play time but it shouldnt seem like a punishment for the cat who is NOT being played with. So play with that cat first & then feed a meal using a treat ball or food puzzle (takes longer) so they can be distracted & rewarded.
I have guests coming and my kitty is shy when people come over, would love a video on helping her with this. She’s wonderful with those she knows, but with strangers, she hides.
Hello this video is very helpful as we are bringing home a pair soon one of which is very shy and we want to do everything we can to make her comfy and happy. Could you pls explain what you mean by covering the cat tree with a sheet? So that she can hang out underneath and completely out of sight? Is it ok if she can’t see her surroundings? Would be grateful for a reply thanks again for the video!
This is amazing. Such great advice. Really appreciated. Can you advise how you make a safe room if you only have one bedroom or a studio as it’s ok in a house with a few rooms but difficult if you are short on space? I love shy cats because once they trust you you know they love you and that feels so special. It takes alot to gain that trust but once you have it it’s the best feeling ❤
Bathrooms arent super ideal for many reasons but you can make it work if you dont have any strangers coming over during this initial period. You can also make a "safe room" in a studio apartment using the same techniques. Blocking inappropriate hide places, etc.
I wish I watched this before adopting my cat! I feel so bad! Now I know to leave her alone more and it's okay if she stays in my room all day and wants to hide ;o;
@@WildAtHeartCats Yea 🥺 she was sooo stressed when I covered all of her hiding spots. Luckily she finds my bed nice and comfy and it’s her safe spot and she seems very happy now and walks around the house confidently. I just feel so bad for not letting her ease into it better. It’s only been a week and a half 🥺🥺
If the cat is currently hiding under the bed I would not disturb them. Under a bed can be ok, its all about access to the cat. Can you reach them to put food near them or try to give treats or play time. Under beds can be really bad if they get up & into the box spring.
@@WildAtHeartCats What helped for me was “disturbing” my cat by moving the bed 10 cm away from the inner wall. This had an immediate effect on both the cats I tested this on. While hiding behind a blanket, making it seem as if the bed moved a little by itself; like a tree in nature. Thank you for a wonderful video, straight to the important points.
Ì youta rent a old farm house with a barn.Ive made 3 of them my in house only pets.Shes 100% correct. I fed them by a plastic ball they had to move around to get food. 45 handicapped now the minor work & responsibility i dont want now.I miss my cat soooo much.Adopt don't shop! Cats & kittens show appreciation like no other!! I'm an introvert cat guy! Lol❤❤them!
I'm fostering scared/shy cats. My advise is to not free feed dry food either. You can give them kibbles a couple of times per day but it works better to not free feed them at all. Now, having said that, I can imagine that you would not have a choice if you are away from home for MANY hours at a time.
@@Subs1338 If you don't free feed they are more motivated to actually come out when you bring food. They will connect you and your scent with food, so positive association. Also their natural way of life is to prey, kill, eat, groom and sleep. So if you feed them after playing (aka catching their prey) they will be more in their natural flow.
Some treats are less healthy indeed but when working with shy or fearful cats you need to use what actually works. And through working with thousands of cats & using all variety of treats, I use what works.
@@WildAtHeartCatsThose treats once or twice day isn't as bad as feeding dry kibble, ESPECIALLY leaving a bowl of dry 24 hours. There is no such thing as a high quality dry kibble. Yes some are better than others, but regardless. Dry kibble is the number one cause of feline disease and early death. I am a Holistic Feline Nutrition Specialist, cat owner and cat rescue.
Don‘t get a dog if a cat seems like too much work. A dog needs to be socialized ant trained as well. Don‘t get any pet if you are not prepared to care for it.
I just volunteered to socialize at a cat shelter and yes, shy cats are so loving when they come out of their shell.
My current boy took a few months and a little help with a prescription. He loves to be on my lap and be held like a baby. I got a few shy cats to come out at the shelter, one hid in his litter box and another under her blanket. I gave them extra time and treats, they are now really loving affectionate kitties. Don't overlook the shy ones.
Thank you so much. I adopted a shy cat today, and it breaks my heart about how shy he is. He is a beautiful, sweet cat, and I am going to be as patient with him as he needs. I'd hate it if he was afraid of me.
You'll do great!!!
THIS WORKS, I adopted a 2 year old stray cat that was hit by a car and has a neurological deficit. He has a permanent head tilt and sometimes has wobbly wobbles, I put him in my room with everything, and I would stay in there on my bed, I basically ignored him most of the time, didn't bother him but I would give him lick lix he was petrified and I was told if I didn't take him he would be euthanized. I did everything, including the slow blink he is now jumping on my bed, purring rubbing on me. I wanted to give him access to the rest of my flat, so I am not going to force him, I think I will do it when I'm home. I will just open the doors and allow him to come out at his time. I can't believe the change in maximillion, and I'm so happy and proud of him
I just started fostering and my foster cat is suuuuppper shy and she doesn’t want to come out of her carrier 😭 - I’m hoping she comes out of her shell ❤
@samantha.mariam I feel your stress, it works I promise my cat is now on my bed ge comes when I call him, he has been in my room only, today I have opened up all the doors to the rest of my home, we will see.
@@louisegiordano959 how long did it take to get to that level?
@@samantha.mariam it took from Dec 14 to literally I wrote the comment
@samantha.mariam i opened the doors today and he is hiding under my bed so I just closed the door, it's hard I know, but it will happen they feel our ❤️,
This is a great video. We just adopted 2 very shy cats from a shelter a week ago. They were feral kittens and spent almost 2 years at the shelter as they're so shy. We visited them for months at the shelter to get to know them. The shelter staff warned us they would "regress", which they have. They were so frightened the first 24 hours they wouldn't eat. They were in shock. I blocked off under the bed and under one of the dressers before getting them (the other dresser is not against a wall and is easy to reach under). The first couple days they were hiding a lot behind the dresser against the wall. Your suggestion to put a sheet on a cat tree is brilliant. Now, at 1 week, they are hanging out a lot on that cat tree under the sheet. They rarely go behind the dresser anymore as they have the cat tree plus other hiding spots that I provided--caves and tents. And they are now eating normally and using the litterbox.
Aw love all of this. Thanks for taking a chance on them, they certainly deserve it!
We had a breakthrough with our shy cat Luna, we adopted 2 months ago. Last night I was taking a nap on the couch and she climbed on me (never happened before) and purred (never happened before) when I pet her. She didn't purr loud but loud enough. She is finally beginning to trust us and feel comfortable with her surroundings. We also have a kitten who is a bundle of energy. They get along great so I think our other cat is helping Luna feel at home.
Such wonderful news!
I lost my second feline son to cancer who was shy and adopted another boy some time after. But he is extremely shy. Would not come out of hiding and would tighten up like an armadillo just touching him. With patience and love he got better but still buried his head in a box. First trip to vet he ran around exam room to hide so bad the vet prescribed buspirone. It takes a couple months to work, we're one month in now. I hope he comes around. He is a gentle boy, as scared as he was he didn't snarl, bite or scratch.
Before the vet he loves pets and chin scratches, with a head bump once or twice but only in his box.
I look forward to cuddling with him on the couch with my daughter cat.
I adopted a shy and scared cat. This makes me feel better and know Im not wrong. Youre welcome btw! 🥹🥹🥹 I want to be better at this so I can foster more shy cats and get them ready for a new home.
thank you. I have a shy girl coming home with me in a couple days...trying to make it a positive thing for her.
Good luck!!
I have a cat that's about a year and a half old. I got her when she was half grown. She has a lot of fear and I suspect she was abused before I got her. I've been spending time with her and showing a lot of love. She is making some progress after several months. In the beginning she would not even come out and eat her food if I was in the room. Now she does. She used to run and hide from me all the time. Now I can set her on chair next to me and she will lay there. When I pet her she really lights up and begins to purr and butts her head against my hand. She really likes the kindness and is showing it. So I'm encouraged that I am seeing progress even though it's coming slowly. I really hope to see her lose all the fear eventually. She has areas that she feels safe in. However I'm trying to teach her that the whole house is safe. I take her into my office and spend time with her and she's doing very well. Sometimes I will take her and do other areas of the house and sit down on the floor with her and spend time. I pet her and she really likes that and begins purring. In the beginning she didn't even purr. But she really is a sweet cat and she is finally after several months beginning to do better. I have a high perch for her and she really likes it there and feels safe. But I'm trying to help her understand everywhere in this house is safe. I'm guessing that she equates a certain things here with what she experienced in the past. So I'm working to give her a better and happier future. I bought a big bag of toys for her a while back and I play with her to get her to be happy. I believe the happier she is the more those fears will fade away.
I love the care & dedication you clearly have. My only advice is to not pick her up & bring her places, instead allow her to go to the places on her own when she is ready. I actually advice all cat guardians to not pick their cats up unless they want that, as most dont. And indeed, the more safe she feels, the less fear she will experience. 💜
Thank you so so much for this. Wanna do right by my shy old man we just adopted. He's been failed by humans in the past. Never again thanks to your help.
Love this for him & you! 💜
I’m looking to rescue a bonded pair who are both really shy. Thanks for the tips!
I love that! Bonded pairs are so hard to place in shelters so thank you!!!
I adopted a shy cat yesterday it was my birthday so I wanted to welcome a furry friend into my home he’s not mean or aggressive he’s a sweet cat but he’s just scared I saw him just suffering in the shelter and I knew he was just coming home with us that day.
Just adopted and shy 1year 2 month old short hair dilute calico, so beautiful . She has so much love to offer it's beyond amazing! Thank you for the covering the tower with a sheet tip, it worked!!! I covered the tower last night and success, she was in the tower this morning❤. Thank you so so much:)
Calicos are just special. I LOVE that she is using the cat tree now & your love & care for her is sooooo evident. Made my day!
@@WildAtHeartCats 💗
This is a really helpful video. Thanks so much
So glad you found it useful!
I have been reluctant to consider a shy cat. You have changed my mind.
amazing 🤩
This video is soooo good. I’m fostering a shy kitty and these are such great reminders
Thank you & so glad!
Great Video. This education will certainly help us with our shy newly adopted 3yo kitty. Thank you.
Great ♥
just watched you video , I will try to a mummy cat that we just rescued with her kittens and she’s so afraid of us ! kittens are fine very social but she’s really nervous thank you
Interesting video and nice to know i'm essentially doing it right .Although I will say that I think adding a synthetic cat hormone diffuser to the safe space has helped .I'm on day 4 of settling a very nervous little 1 yr old female (spayed) who came from a home with lots of cats and several small kids .She has her quiet room and hiding spot with a folded blanket ,her food ,litter and water etc and is slowly becoming more comfortable .My go to bribe has been a little cooked chicken breast ,she loves that and will hopefully decide she loves the person who gives it to her .I'm currently giving her a clear 3 or 4 hours in the afternoon when I don't go into the room so she can have a quiet nap or explore without interruption .Otherwise I do several short visits in the morning and evening to bring her wet food (or chicken ) let her come to me for pets ,exchange some slow blinks (More me than her but never mind ) and offer interaction with toys .
I used the slow blink with my last semi-feral cat and it worked wonders. He lived on my patio and eventually came inside. It works!
Thank you! This is the most helpful video I've found yet.
Thanks so much! Really appreciate it!
Thanks, in hindsight, I did some things right and other things not so well!
live and learn ❤
This is so good. Currently, I find myself in a position,I’m concerned about. I’ve had a cat all my life and recently my cat died so I’ve been babysitting the cats in the neighborhood. Last night, my girlfriend dropped off her sister‘s cat to care for for 5 days and he’s been in hiding since he arrived. I understand consent and I’m not worried *now* because it’s only been one day and I have two litter boxes which he seems to have used. I did not keep him confined to one room, but rather closed off rooms in my home instead. Not the best choice, I understand now. I’ve put food out in the kitchen where the hub of activity (just me) is, along with treats and water in the living room where I’ve been playing animal friendly TV. He doesn’t seem to respond to the cat sounds that I used for my other babysitting jobs and I would love some advice on where to put the food. I don’t want to put it near the litter boxes, but since he’s used them already, would it make sense to put them about 10 feet apart?
Very helpful video! I'm going to adopt a really shy cat who has been spending way too much time at the shelter and this video really helped me with my preparations, thank you!
Aw congrats! Shy cats are desperate to get out of shelters.
wow what a comforting video. Thank you so much!
Thansk!
This is a really good and informative video, Shani. I thought I knew pretty much everything about cats, but there’s a lot of information here I didn’t know- for instance, about the “slow blink”. I’m definitely going to try it on the cats that stay in our hospital!
Thanks for sharing and caring!
So great to hear! Thanks so much & let me know how it goes! *slow blink* =)
I just trapped a mama cat and her single 5 week kitten where I work. We weren’t sure if the mama was feral or not, so I took her after she was spayed and got all her health care, and it turns out, she isn’t feral. Just scared to death….but likes being petted, and she purrs and makes eye contact. She’s only about 1 year old, and has probably been on her own for about 8 or 9 months. Easy to find a home for the kitten, and then an angel I work with offered to give the mama a home. I know it’s going to take time…..but I’m so worried about her. First someone (me) took her baby, then she got lured into a trap, then the scary process of surgery, then going to the rescue, then to my house, then her new home. She spends most of her time hiding, plasters herself against a wall or the back of the crate. The woman who took her texted me this morning and said she stopped eating as of Sunday night. Now she has to go to the vet today. Poor kitty.
In the future you should leave mom & baby outside until the baby/babies are 2 months old. You may try to re-home the kittens after they are at least 2 months old (but also realize that may not be best for them) but mom should be TNR'ed.
@@WildAtHeartCats the vet found nothing wrong, thinks it’s just all the trauma she’s been through in her short life. She ate chicken today and some dry food today. Wouldn’t a kitten two months old be harder or even impossible to tame? If he even survived that long. Lots of foxes, coyotes, hawks, and owls around. And, a lot of my coworkers were trying to catch the kitten. The types of people who love kittens but later say “oh, she/he ran away” or 6 months later cat is pregnant and they are looking for someone to take yet MORE kittens. As for the mother, she isn’t feral…so why TNR her? I would have loved to have been able to keep mama and baby together in a safe place, but it just couldn’t happen that way - but in the end, I think they are both better off.
@@geslinam9703 Research proves that kittens left with their mom for 12-14 weeks fair better behaviorally & medically. The death rate for kittens taken from their moms too soon is extremely high. No one can care better for that kitten but their mom. ALL adult community cats, whether they are socialized or not should be TNR'ed.
@@geslinam9703 More info: highcountryhumane.org/community-cats-program/
&
ruclips.net/video/h8lgljb_JOU/видео.htmlfeature=shared
@@WildAtHeartCats I understand that it’s best for kittens to be fully raised by their mothers. That makes perfect sense, and I considered it before taking her….but weighing the risks, the kitten was not safe where it was. Someone else would have taken it, or it would have been killed. And I’m surprised you would think that any cat except for a true feral is better left to the outdoors. Should I have just ignored all the street cats I’ve taken in over the years and went and bought kittens instead?
The kitten is doing great. We went to the vet today, has put on weight, eating well, playful and energetic, using litter box and doing all the things a kitten her age should be doing. The mother started eating again after a few days and is coming out of her shell, exploring more of her new home every day, accepting affection.
Thank you so much! I've adopted a bonded pair and Schooner the sister is super shy and her brother Keith won't leave her even though I think he is more curious. I'm so glad they have each other but this video is so helpful. Imma get out of their business lol ..I feel like I have a much better idea of what will help them adjust. Much appreciated ❤
So glad you found it helpful!!
Great video ive always had cats but I like to always learn more can never learn enough now I only have one cat new
Same! Always learning!
I have feral cats in my neighborhood and I can attest that they ALL love the chicken temptations lol
We just got a shy cat last night from a friend who can't take care of him anymore. We didn't know about inappropriate hide places, so we set his safe room up in our closet, but now he is hiding way up on the top shelf behind some luggage. If I needed to get him down I would have to use a ladder, but I want him to stay confident! How should I deal with this situation? I tried to give him a treat and he hissed at me... but there's evidence he came down to use the litterbox and to drink sometime during the night!
Just leave him be. I would open the closet & allow access to a room as a closet may be too small. Not sure how big it is. But just bring him treats & yummy wet food at a distance & leave them. No expectations. He needs time to adjust. You can slowly try to play.
@@WildAtHeartCatsThank you, that’s reassuring! The closet is a big walk-in, there’s a ton of space in there. I had apartments in college smaller than that :) I’m leaving the door cracked open too so he can go to the master bathroom or our bedroom.
Thank you so much for the great tips. My new furry shy best friend Diego will
Appreciate too.
Awesome!!
I just adapted a new kitten! I am currently unable to block out his inappropriate hiding spot (shoe drawer under my bed). Not sure what to do :((
Just leave him be until he comes out on his own. Make sure he has plenty of alternative hide spots & if possible block that spot. But dont stress too much. You go this.
I have a question!! My foster cat was basically just existing in a house for the last 10 years with little human interaction. I’ve had her for over a month and she’s relatively comfortable in her room (I have a camera in the room) however she will not come out of her hiding box when I’m in the room. I’ve implemented all of your tips but I have a question about our socialization visits. I use a feather to pet her to give a little space but after a minute or two she will hiss at me and start flapping her tail. I know she’s upset and uncomfortable so should I end our visit when she hisses and just try again the next day? She’s never been aggressive towards me but even when I get down on the ground level with her box and just talk to her no touching, she freezes up and starts licking her lips. I know she’s scared and just needs more time, do you have any advice? Thank you!
hi thank you so much for the tips! I have a question- my new shy cat loves hiding in one of those donut tunnel beds - is that an appropriate hiding place for her? She hides in the back where she can’t see me, and I worry I won’t be able to socialize her with slow blinks if she cant see me.
Its totally appropriate & the more time & space you give her the better. Allowing her to come to you will increase the trust & bond. Keep giving her high value treats/wet food with no expectations of an interaction. Try some play!
@@WildAtHeartCats thank you so much !
I just got my new kitten yesterday and she literally went under and somehow got into the spring box. She came out today for like 15 min or so.
Now my question is how can Iure her into the carrier box so I can block off under the bed and under my dresser?
I should also mention, that I’m also scared of her stretching me. Lol
If she willingly comes out I wouldnt overly stress her out by trying to get her into a carrier to block access. Provide appropriate hiding places, work on building trust. She will eventually come out & you can try blocking that area.
I have two six month old slightly under-socialized kittens (brothers) that have been with me for three months. One still doesn’t tolerate much affection or attention and often bolts away. He plays and has moments of semi- confidence but he’s always on edge/eyes dilated. I’ve noticed that although the two kittens get along and like each other, he is more confident playing with me when his brother isn’t around. He’ll also allow me to pet him just a bit more when his brother isn’t around (I don’t get it).So my question is: since I don’t have any rooms in my apartment (loft) and they’re already used to being out in the apartment/on their cat trees/playing in their tunnels, do I need to try to do this in the bathroom? They meow to get out when they’re in there because they’re used to being out. When I brought them home, I made the mistake of not doing this and just let them out in the house right away 🤦🏻♀️ And 2. Do I need to lock his brother in the bathroom while I play with him outside in the rest of the apartment? I just really want to help this scared kitty become more confident to make sure he feels safe and has as much kitty mojo as he is capable of having. I’ll love him either way, but I want him to feel super happy here.
I would not lock them in the bathroom but I think its ok to separate cats for play time but it shouldnt seem like a punishment for the cat who is NOT being played with. So play with that cat first & then feed a meal using a treat ball or food puzzle (takes longer) so they can be distracted & rewarded.
Excellent, thorough advice. Thank you!
So glad you found it helpful!
I have guests coming and my kitty is shy when people come over, would love a video on helping her with this. She’s wonderful with those she knows, but with strangers, she hides.
I have it here =) ruclips.net/video/-XXtL8kGSU8/видео.htmlsi=gmC_DPvh21ScL19i
Very good! Thank you.
Thanks so much!
Hello this video is very helpful as we are bringing home a pair soon one of which is very shy and we want to do everything we can to make her comfy and happy. Could you pls explain what you mean by covering the cat tree with a sheet? So that she can hang out underneath and completely out of sight? Is it ok if she can’t see her surroundings? Would be grateful for a reply thanks again for the video!
Hi! Congrats on the pair. In this video I show you what I mean: ruclips.net/user/shortsRzNNaULYkVg
Great video. Thank you!
♥
This is amazing. Such great advice. Really appreciated.
Can you advise how you make a safe room if you only have one bedroom or a studio as it’s ok in a house with a few rooms but difficult if you are short on space?
I love shy cats because once they trust you you know they love you and that feels so special. It takes alot to gain that trust but once you have it it’s the best feeling ❤
Bathrooms arent super ideal for many reasons but you can make it work if you dont have any strangers coming over during this initial period. You can also make a "safe room" in a studio apartment using the same techniques. Blocking inappropriate hide places, etc.
@@WildAtHeartCats Thanks will always remember this advice as it could come in useful one day.
@@SC-de5to 🙌🙌
I wish I watched this before adopting my cat! I feel so bad! Now I know to leave her alone more and it's okay if she stays in my room all day and wants to hide ;o;
We learn & do better 🥰🥰🥰
@@WildAtHeartCats Yea 🥺 she was sooo stressed when I covered all of her hiding spots. Luckily she finds my bed nice and comfy and it’s her safe spot and she seems very happy now and walks around the house confidently. I just feel so bad for not letting her ease into it better. It’s only been a week and a half 🥺🥺
If I have inappropriate hiding ground, do I just block off the underneath of my bed? My cat has only been home for two days
If the cat is currently hiding under the bed I would not disturb them. Under a bed can be ok, its all about access to the cat. Can you reach them to put food near them or try to give treats or play time. Under beds can be really bad if they get up & into the box spring.
@@WildAtHeartCats What helped for me was “disturbing” my cat by moving the bed 10 cm away from the inner wall. This had an immediate effect on both the cats I tested this on. While hiding behind a blanket, making it seem as if the bed moved a little by itself; like a tree in nature. Thank you for a wonderful video, straight to the important points.
Ì youta rent a old farm house with a barn.Ive made 3 of them my in house only pets.Shes 100% correct. I fed them by a plastic ball they had to move around to get food. 45 handicapped now the minor work & responsibility i dont want now.I miss my cat soooo much.Adopt don't shop! Cats & kittens show appreciation like no other!! I'm an introvert cat guy! Lol❤❤them!
I'm fostering scared/shy cats. My advise is to not free feed dry food either. You can give them kibbles a couple of times per day but it works better to not free feed them at all. Now, having said that, I can imagine that you would not have a choice if you are away from home for MANY hours at a time.
How come?
@@Subs1338 If you don't free feed they are more motivated to actually come out when you bring food. They will connect you and your scent with food, so positive association.
Also their natural way of life is to prey, kill, eat, groom and sleep. So if you feed them after playing (aka catching their prey) they will be more in their natural flow.
@@Just_Me_Being_Myselfthank you! If they don't eat their food do I take it away til next meal? Thanks 🙏
Those treats are very bad for cats! The two ingredient baby food is ok. Freeze dried raw food are the best treats. Raw is the best diet.
Some treats are less healthy indeed but when working with shy or fearful cats you need to use what actually works. And through working with thousands of cats & using all variety of treats, I use what works.
@@WildAtHeartCatsThose treats once or twice day isn't as bad as feeding dry kibble, ESPECIALLY leaving a bowl of dry 24 hours. There is no such thing as a high quality dry kibble. Yes some are better than others, but regardless. Dry kibble is the number one cause of feline disease and early death. I am a Holistic Feline Nutrition Specialist, cat owner and cat rescue.
@@mistyrious1111starseed You are preaching to the choir. If you know my content you know my stance on dry food.
You just talked me out of a kat way to much work,😢 think Adonis way easier at this point
Yup, I agree, if you aren’t committed to having an animal, don’t get one.
Don‘t get a dog if a cat seems like too much work. A dog needs to be socialized ant trained as well. Don‘t get any pet if you are not prepared to care for it.
"The shy ones are sensitive and kind" - or Jeffrey Dahmer.