How to Get Close to a Timid Cat

A cat that was not properly socialized between the ages of 2 and 12 weeks old to the presence of different people will react with shyness and fear if introduced to someone new, according to the New York Feral Cat Initiative website. If you have recently adopted or plan to foster a timid feline, or have entered the life of someone who owns a fearful cat, take steps to gain its trust. With time and patience, you can get close to a timid cat to befriend it and put it at ease.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat treats
  • Tuna or mackerel
  • Laser cat toy
  • Cat toys on a wand
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Instructions

    • 1

      Confine the timid cat to a small room, such as a spare bedroom or bathroom, with as few places for it to hide as possible. Place its litter box and water dish in the room, available for it at all times. Spend time in the room with the cat to get it used to your presence and scent. Read a book or watch television without approaching the cat.

    • 2

      Feed the cat several times a day, placing the dish of food near you, inching it closer each time you do so. If it is reluctant to come over and eat the food in your presence, add a small amount of tuna or mackerel to the food, which will be a tempting treat. Once you get the cat near enough to touch it while it eats, gently stroke it and speak to it in a soft, calm voice. Say its name frequently to reassure it, according to the Best Friends Animal Society.

    • 3

      Sit on the ground near the cat and hold out treats to lure it over to you. Once it comes over and smells you or sits down near you, give it another treat. Continue to give the cat treats until it sits in your lap and allows you to gently pet it.

    • 4

      Engage the cat in play with a laser pointer cat toy to chase or a toy with feathers attached to a wand. Keep play sessions to 10 to 15 minutes to maintain its attention and lure it over to spend time with you.

    • 5

      Pet the cat once it regularly comes over to you in the room, lavishing it with attention and soft praise. When petting it, blink your eyes slowly or close them; this action reassures the cat that your actions are friendly, not aggressive, according to the New York City Feral Cat Initiative website. Pick up the cat gently, from behind, and place it in your lap. Give it a treat so it becomes used to your handling.