Question:
I just adopted a cat today from a shelter. He's about 2 years old and VERY shy. When you walk by or toward him, he cowers.
I'm sure my 2 young boys are overwhelming him too.
To give him a break I put him our spare room with his cat bed, food, and litter box.
He does love to cuddle and while curl up on me and start purring. But that's only if I bring him to me. Otherwise he won't come near me.
Is this normal of cats adjusting to new situations, or did I get an extra timid cat? I'm worried he'll never want to play with my kids.
Any advice would be helpful thanks.
Answer:
I adopted a cat that was fairly shy. My Justin at first was very timid around people. A year later, he has come a long way. He still may run or cower from a very loud noise, but generally he doesn't mind. He loves to snuggle and will come when you call him. He also looooves to play.
I would say there is a very good chance that with time and patience and love your new cat will turn out to be less shy than he is now...how much I don't know. Some of it could just be the way he is but I strongly suspect most of it is just that he is nervous in this new situation. It is very normal for him to be acting this way, especially since you said you just got him today.
I think it is a good sign that he will cuddle with you. And also good that you gave him the spare room...this can become his "safe spot" for him to go when he is stressed.
Be sure to keep us posted on how he is doing.
Kitty art by ForJazz
--Shannon--
Answer:
I agree, with a little time I think you'll see a difference. Many times a cat in a new place will act that way. Good luck and congrats on your new addition.
~Jenn~
"Time spent with cats is never wasted." --May Sarton
By ForJazz
Answer:
I agree, some cats take time. I know, because I have a skittish kitty. You might consider leaving the cat in just the one room for now and visiting him there - all members of the family. This is a much smaller place for him to explore and be confident in. Once he seems less shy, and walks a little more boldly, then introduce him to the rest of the house. The experience of moving is an upset in routine for a kitty, and many take awhile to adjust (depends on the cat). A large new environment can be overwhleming; a confined space at first would probably be much more comfortable for him. It might actually make him settle in more quickly.
Good luck, and keep us posted!
~ Jessica, Tilak, Jax & Harley~
Answer:
I agree with what the others have said, you need to give him time to get used to you. As he is more used to you I'm sure he will more confident in approaching you.
We used the bribery technique with one of our boys. He was reluctant to be picked up but by feeding him treats on my knee he first of all was hapy to jump on my knee when the treats came out but then he would start to jump on my knee just because he wanted to sit there.
Give him time and I'm sure you will be happy with the results.