I rescue adopted an adult female cat two weeks ago. She was very affectionate at the shelter, but only comes out from hiding to eat or use the litter box in my home. Anybody know how long it will take for her to feel more comfortable? I have seen her watching my aquariums a few times, but she runs and hides if I enter the room. I'll post some photos if she ever comes out.
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9 comments
Feel free to reply to any comment by clicking the "Reply" button.I adopted a feral cat. Ignored her for about three weeks. One night she peeked over the couch and jumped in my lap. It just takes time.
PondartIncbendog
Level 8
Nov 20, 2022
4
6-8 weeks, she has been through A Lot.
You sitting quietly will be less stressful, on a nearby couch if possible.....trying to coax her or interact with her will be extremely counterproductive!
AnneWimsey
Level 9
Nov 20, 2022
3
Good for you for taking a rescue cat. Sometimes they do come with lots of baggage. Be patient with her, she is mourning the loss of her babies, and as others have said decompressing.
HippieChick58
Level 9
Nov 20, 2022
6
Congratulations, and I look forward to seeing your photos of her! What's her name?
She's had at least a couple of upsets in her environment that we know of, and it's hard to say what happened on the streets, so it must be rough on her to wonder what changes are being forced on her now, and what others are to come. I'm sure your patience will be rewarded with the positive reinforcement methods everyone's suggested.
Lauren
Level 8
Nov 20, 2022
6
The shelter had named her Madison. I haven't thought of another name yet.
MizJ's suggestion with a bit of catnip rubbed in. Also if you have it a red laser dot flicking around the room from outside may get her curiosity working. Let her know you are the one feeding her. If she likes fish I've found that dried anchovies from the Asian food store are a great tempter with most cats. If not fish dry some chicken breast cut into very small pieces into chicken jerky - 80°C in the oven or air fryer for a couple - three hours should do it or if you're wealthy $40-60 kilo.
FrayedBear
Level 9
Nov 20, 2022
4
It depends on her Age, History and Memories, it's much faster and easier with kittens.
Try to make a logical connection between your presence and her food to her and be patient.
how old is she ?!
Diaco
Level 7
Nov 20, 2022
8
She is 1.5 years. She was found outdoors with a litter of kittens. I'm being patient and talking to her in a gentle voice when I do see her, avoiding direct eye contact.
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