Cats are great pets and great to have around, but they have a wide variety of personality.Some cats are friendly and outgoing, while others are aggressive and fearful.Whether your existing cat is reacting fearfully to a stressor or you're trying to help a new cat adjust to you, you can take several steps to show the cat that you are not a threat.
Step 1: Know the signs of fear in a cat.
Cats are good at communicating when they are angry, and fur standing on end is hard to miss.General aggression is one of many behaviors associated with a frightened cat.Other behaviors to look for include hiding or running away, freezing in place, releasing anal glands, urine, or stool, and not using the litter box.
Step 2: The cat has a fear Trigger.
The fearful reaction may be caused by a consistent set of sounds and people.Reducing the cat's exposure to the fear or aggression may be enough to help it adjust.Loud sounds, sudden movements, unfamiliar people, animals, and children are some of the examples.
Step 3: Give your cat a place to sleep.
Giving your cat some time and space alone is the answer for many stimuli that cause a fearful response.If your cat hides in her carrier because of the stress, then leave her there.She will get over it.Something like moving to a new home might cause her to be scarce for days.She should have access to food, water, and her litter box.Trying to get your cat out of a hiding spot before she is ready will only make her more fearful and stress her out.Don't think that she's afraid of you.If you help an aggressive or fearful cat after a move, you may want to introduce her to the new home one room at a time.There is a secluded room where you can put her carrier, toys, food/water, and litter box.
Step 4: Food can be used to motivate your cat.
Cats like a few things and food.If you want your cat to bond with a friend or roommate, you should put that person on food and treat duty.Start by having the person fill the cat's food dish and then sit on the other side of the room without making eye contact.The person should move closer over time.The person should give her treats as well.Set the treat out where your cat can see it and then move away to a similar distance over time.Your cat will begin to associate this person with good things instead of being afraid of them.Allow your cat to set her own pace.Luring her out isn't the same as forcing her.She needs to make a choice.
Step 5: Provide a perch.
Cats like to look down and survey in safety when they are up above the action.A cat tower is a great option if your cat is frightened by a toddler or a new animal in the house.A cat tower can calm your cat.If your cat feels cornered, she is more likely to respond fearfully.She is less likely to respond aggressively when she can just run away from her tower.
Step 6: The cat should be taken to the vet.
Make sure your new cat is up to date on her shots and veterinary exams.If you adopt a cat from a rescue, you will likely get this documentation with the cat.Before you bring a stray into your house, you should take her to the vet.Cats that are sick can potentially transmit diseases to you or your loved ones, and they are more likely to be aggressive, which can result in injury.
Step 7: The cat needs to be adjusted to one room at a time.
New owners, a new environment, and a disruption to the cat's previous routine are some of the things that can cause a fearful response from a cat.The cat should be isolated to one room as she adjusts to her new home.Place her food, water, toys, and litter box all in the same area, as well as her carrier where she can hide.She can explore at her own pace if the door is left open.
Step 8: Give food and treats.
It's a good bet with cats to bond over food.She should begin to associate you with delicious food and treats.Don't feed her by hand.Make noise with the food bag or bag of treats so she knows you have something good for her, and then place the dish down and sit close by.Move closer to the dish without looking at the cat or trying to pet her.Help her get used to being in the same space.
Step 9: Play with the cat.
A great way to bond is with a cat.Don't touch the cat.Buy wand toys with feathers attached.You can play with your cat at a distance that is more comfortable for her.If she won't come out of her carrier at first, try dangling a toy near the entrance and jiggle it to see if you can lure her out.Try again later if not.
Step 10: The cat can come to you.
Ensure that you allow your cat to approach you as you try to make contact with her.If she gets close enough to sniff you directly, you can slowly put your hand out and see.If she backs away when you pet her, you should always wait for her to rub up against you first.To increase her curiosity, sit near your cat, avoid eye contact, and talk to her in a soothing voice.Try to get your cat out of her hiding places.This will cause her to be frightened and stress her out.
Step 11: Don't pick up the cat.
Cats that have been with their owners for a long time don't like being picked up.It is possible to find out if your cat is thinking when you pick her up, but never do it while you are still acclimating her to you and your home.
Step 12: Training sessions should end on a positive note.
If you want your cat to stay with you, let her set the pace and end each training session with a treat.Let her decide when to walk away from you, just as you let her approach you and brush up against you.Don't try to make the bonding session last longer than your cat wants.
Step 13: Be patient.
Your cat will adjust to her schedule, not yours.It goes a long way to show her that you are calm and safe.Cats can warm you in days or months.Consistency in providing her food, treats, and playtime will help her bond with you and allow her to sit on your lap.
Step 14: If needed, see a cat behavior specialist.
If your new cat continues to growl, bite, or scratch at you, you should call a local cat behavior specialist.A specialist can help to determine what is wrong with your approach, as well as give additional advice on how to proceed.If you suspect that your cat might be a danger to you or others in your household, you should keep her in one room until you can get in touch with a specialist.If she bites or scratches you, wash the area and apply an antibiotic.You should see a doctor at the first sign of an illness.