Despite their small size, cats are full of personality. Some are brave and courageous, some are sociable and extroverted, and some are timid and shy. If you have a scaredy cat, keep reading! Read on as a Hiawassee, GA veterinarian shares suggestions on how to help Fluffy thrive.
Create A Comfy Environment for Your Shy Cat
Kitties are both predators and prey by nature. This could be one of the reasons they have such a unique combination of characteristics. Fluffy can be completely fearless when following that little red dot, yet she may be scared of the doorbell.
When dealing with shy pets, it is critical to provide them with a secure haven. Give your kitty plenty of nooks and crannies to hide in. Paper grocery bags without handles might be attractive hidey-holes for anxious cats. Fluffy would also like some boxes or an enclosed cat condo.
Adopting a Shy Cat
Shelters welcome cats of all ages, sizes, colors, and personalities. It can be difficult to select just one furball from a collection of charming furry faces! However, it is critical to select a kitty that will fit within your family. Fluffy may become overwhelmed if you have a hyperactive dog, a youngster, and three other cats. Most shelters do evaluate pets, and will give you an idea of their personality and the sort of home that is right for them. If you’re interested in adopting an anxious kitty, just make sure that your household won’t be too overwhelming for her.
Getting a Shy Cat to Relax
When you bring your kitty friend home, make sure she has a peaceful and comfortable environment. An extra room is an excellent choice. If you and Fluffy live alone, leave the door open and let her out to explore when she’s ready. If you have any other pets, you should introduce her gradually, so you’d want the door shut for now.
Put all of your feline pal’s kitty necessities, such as food, treats, and a litterbox, in that room. A pet-calming product, such as treats or sprays, may appeal to your cat. You can also play soothing music or turn on kitty TV for her.
At first, your adorable little pet may want to hide somewhere while she gets a sense of her new environment and situation. It’s fine! Allow her the time and space she requires to feel comfortable.
Speak to her, check on her, and feed her treats. Just don’t focus all your attention on her. In fact, reading to your pet may be beneficial. Fluffy will become accustomed to the sound of your voice and will gradually come to feel safe. This is also something kids can help with.
Getting Fluffy Out Of Her Shell
When it comes to bonding with cats, there are few rules, but one is unquestionably golden: always allow the kitty to come to you when she wants attention or cuddling.
When your pet feels secure enough to peek her head out, try holding out a reward. You can also simply extend your hand and gently beckon her. (Making that ‘pssst’ sound may also work.) It’s okay if she doesn’t approach right away. Sooner or later, she’ll get brave and/or curious enough to go to you. Allow her to sniff your fingers and give her a treat. You can gently stroke her forehead. If she backs off, don’t press things. Just make sure every interaction with you is pleasant. Slow and steady is the way to go in this situation.
Increasing Kitty’s Confidence
Did you know that playing with a shy cat is one of the most effective things you can do for her? All kitties are predisposed to be hunters. Even the most timid feline is often drawn to a feather on a string or a catnip mouse. Nailing that tricky pounce will increase your feline pal’s confidence. Consider it the kitty equivalent of achieving a goal or passing a test.
Furthermore, playing gives your pet a safe and healthy opportunity to relieve any stress she is experiencing. Exercise can be very beneficial for both humans and pets. This will help your pet burn off some of its nervous energy. She’ll be a little calmer afterwards, simply because she’ll be exhausted. That’s excellent news!
Make sure your tiny companion has plenty of entertaining toys. Cats all have various preferences for playthings, so you may need to experiment and try a few different things before you can really tell what she enjoys best.
Purrniture: Fluffy may also appreciate a cat tower. If you have a scaredy cat, seek one with at least one enclosed level. Fluffy may feel safer in a high location.
Routine: We would also recommend sticking to a mealtime and playtime schedule. Many of our animal companions just feel more secure when they have a consistent schedule. (Don’t worry: Fluffy will schedule those 83 daily naps on her own.)
Keep Your Kitty In: Kitties are safer remaining inside, where they are protected from traffic, the weather, and wild animals. A shy cat will most likely flee and seek refuge outside, and you may have difficulty persuading her to return.
Don’t Force Attention On Fluffy: Don’t forget that golden rule about not forcing attention on your pet. If she doesn’t want you to hold her or pick her up, don’t. This may backfire, making her anxious and fearful of you. Building trust takes time.
Bring Fluffy To Visit Our Veterinary Clinic Regularly
We always urge that when individuals first adopt a new cat—or any other pet, for that matter— they take it to the vet for a comprehensive examination. This is especially true for shy cats. You want to ensure that there isn’t a medical condition causing the pain or discomfort. If your feline friend receives the all-clear from your vet after a thorough exam, well, at least you’ll know you have a frightened kitty rather than a sick one. If your kitty companion is really stressed, your veterinarian may offer medication.
Keep in mind that this is a great time to ask questions!
Have Reasonable Expectations
Even shy cats do not all behave the same. Fluffy may decide that you are safe and want to cuddle with you at all times. Or, she may choose to remain distant and only approach you on occasion. Allow her to determine when and how long she wants to cuddle. Knowing that she has a choice can be really beneficial in this situation.
Purr Activation
It’s quite astonishing how much love and care can alter animals. Just bear in mind that our animal pals all have distinct personalities. Fluffy may never be the bold, gregarious cat who cheerfully climbs onto guests’ laps or meows hello to your brother when he comes around. She may enjoy hanging out with you and cuddling up on your lap, though. Remember that it may take some time to get that little motor started. As the adage goes, love cannot be rushed!
Book An Appointment At Our Hiawassee, GA Animal Clinic
Do you have to bring your pet in for an exam? Have you lately got a cat? Contact us, your local Hiawassee, GA pet hospital, right now.
