Do you have an anxious kitty? Our feline pals are all unique. Some are brave and courageous, some are sociable and extroverted, and some are timid and shy. If you have a nervous cat, continue reading! In this story, a neighborhood Hobe Sound, FL veterinarian shares suggestions on how to help Fluffy thrive.
Getting a Shy Cat to Relax
Helping your nervous pet really starts on the day 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.
A pet-calming product, such as treats or sprays, may help soothe your cat. Ask your vet for more information. You can also play soothing music or turn on kitty TV for her.
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. (The ‘pssst’ sound may also work.) It’s okay if she doesn’t approach right away. Allow her to sniff your fingers once she feels brave enough to approach you. Next, give her a treat. You can gently stroke her forehead. If she backs off, don’t press the topic. Slow and steady is the way to go in this situation.
If you have any other pets, you should introduce them gradually. Ask your Hobe Sound, FL vet for tips on this.
Creating a Happy 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 very brave when pursuing that little red dot, yet she may be frightened of the doorbell.
When dealing with shy pets, it is critical to provide them with a secure haven. At first, your pet may want to hide somewhere while she gets a sense of the situation. It’s fine! Allow her the time and space she requires to feel comfortable. 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 probably also like some boxes or an enclosed cat condo.
Adopting a Shy Cat
Are you looking for a new cat? It’s important to pick a kitty that will fit within your family. A nervous cat may become overwhelmed if you have a hyperactive dog, a youngster, and three other cats.
Getting Fluffy Out Of Her Shell
When it comes to bonding with cats, there are few rules, but there is one golden rule: Always allow the kitty to come to you when she wants attention or cuddling. Letting Fluffy decide when cuddle time starts and stops will help her feel that she has a choice, which can go a long way in helping her feel safe.
You don’t want to force attention, but you shouldn’t ignore her, either. Talk to your feline pal, check on her, and offer toys, treats, catnip, and, of course, lap space. Reading to your pet may also be beneficial. Fluffy will get used to the sound of your voice and will gradually come to feel safe.
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 in that way. This will help your pet burn off some of its nervous energy. She’ll be a little calmer afterward 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.
Fluffy may also appreciate a cat tower. For a scaredy cat, look for one with at least one enclosed level. Fluffy may feel safer in a high location, so choose one she can climb.
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.
Bring Fluffy To The Vet
We always urge that when people first adopt a new cat, they take Fluffy to the vet as soon as possible for a comprehensive examination. This is especially true for shy kittens. You want to ensure that there isn’t a medical condition causing the pain or discomfort. If your feline friend receives the all-clear, you’ll know you have a frightened kitty, rather than a sick one. If your feline companion is really stressed, your Hobe Sound, FL veterinarian may offer medication.
What Should You Not Do With Stressed Cats?
There are also a few don’ts on the checklist. At the top of that list? Do not let your pet go out. A shy cat will most likely run and find a hiding spot, and you may have difficulty persuading her to return. Plus, cats are just safer remaining inside, where they are protected from traffic, the weather, and wild animals.
As mentioned above, never focus your attention on Fluffy. If she doesn’t want you to hold her or pick her up, let her be. Forcing her may backfire, making her anxious and fearful of you. Building trust takes time.
Finally, never strike or yell at your cat when disciplining her. Simply clap your hands if she is doing something wrong, such as sniffing near the door or leaping on the counter. You might also try spraying her with water. These things will startle and irritate her, but should not scare her.
Getting That Motor Going
Fluffy may decide that you are safe and want to cuddle with you at all times. She may 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.
Aside from that, focus on providing your cute pet with great TLC. It’s quite astonishing how much love and care can transform 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 sister when she visits, but she may still become very bonded to you. 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, but that will only make it more precious when you do.
Visit Our Hobe Sound, FL Animal Clinic
Do you have to bring your pet in for an exam? Have you just adopted a nervous cat? Contact us, your local Hobe Sound, FL pet hospital, right now.
