Nervous Cats, Wining the Trust of a Timid Cat

Nervous cats hide from people, they do not readilyremember patience pays.
present themselves for petting, and may seemGreat results have been obtained by owners of
downright scared of you.nervous cats by using a pet crate. Cover the sides
Probably, this was not exactly what you had in mindof the crate with card or a blanket so that your cat
when you decided to get yourself a pet. So, is it atcan see through the front but still feels protected.
all possible for nervous cats to overcome theirPut the litter tray in the crate and perhaps your cats
timidity and learn to trust you? The answer is yes,favorite toy. Start by using the crate in a room that
but you will need patience, patience, and patience.humans are not using, but from where your cat can
It is usual for a kitten to be cautious and timid forhear the sounds of the house. Then, move to a
the first week or so in its new home, but someplace where the humans of the house can be seen
kitties remain nervous of you no matter how lovingcarrying on their normal activity, talk to your pet
and caring you are to them. Kittens that spent thesoothingly. Gradually your cat may learn that there is
first weeks of their life in the company of humansno threat to it from you, and you may achieve
and other pets, along with the associated sounds andenjoying your cat's company outside the crate
smells, are far less likely to be nervous cats. They willwithout any sign of nervousness.
accept sharing their living space with humans moreBribery can often work wonders with nervous cats.
readily, and be more likely to accept petting. Your catTry a offering a tempting healthy treat, if your cat is
may have had a nasty experience before coming tohungry enough to overcome its fear and stay still to
your home, and is naturally apprehensive of aeat its treat, stroke it gently, don't make sudden
reoccurrence.movements! You may have to persevere, but often
One way to gradually get a nervous cat used toyour pet will eventually accept and enjoy your
petting is to gently wrap your pet in a thick towel, topetting.
prevent it from scratching you, and gently strokingNever lose patience, and remember that your
its head. Talk to your cat softly as you do so, andnervous cat is not rejecting you, it is just an in built
only use a light grip never hold your cat extremelyprotective reaction to something that has given kitty
tight. Set aside a time each day to perform thiscause to be wary of humans. Love and perseverance
bonding ritual and your shy cat may grow to trustwill often win the day, and you will be rewarded by
you enough to stroke it without the towel,your cat's affection.