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How do I socialize my two year old omestic cat?
I just got a two year old house cat from an owner who did not want her anymore. She has formed a weak bond with me and still often tries to get away when I want to play with her. She also often scratches at doors and attempts to open them when I am forced to keep her in the room with me. She also often fights me when I pick her up to carry her. I really want her to enjoy my company more as well as that of my friends and family.
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Member 1034906
on May 24th 2011
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in Methods of Training
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You can't make her accept you, cats need to go slow in their terms sometimes. Think of it from her side, chances are if the person whom had her before abandoned her, they didn't let her be close, or at best, she trusted them and they dumped her. You said you just got her. She might have been an inside outside kitty, or even outside mostly, if you just got her she's trying to adjust to changes as well. I would say play with a tease pole of some type or even make your own. They are poles with a toy attached to the end of a pole, or might have feathers or Mylar. Safety wise never leave it with her, just have it out when your with her. Don't try to wavenit in her face, rather toss it andistance away, and let her explore it on her own. Short time initially then longer. You can also just hang out in the room where she is, reading and yes, let her approach you. While she's gaining trust, I personally would not be picking her up unless you HAVE to medicate her or take her to vets.
Member 233195
answered on 5/24/11.
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I had the same problem. My son gave me his female cat when she was 5 years old. It has taken a LONG time (A year) but I was patient with her and now she lays on my chest and looks at me so lovingly. She even takes her paw and pats my cheek. All of the love she shows me now was well worth the time it took for her to finally show it. Be patient. Trust me...it will happen. :-) Don't force her b/c that will only increase her anxiety and defeat your purpose which is to make her feel safe and loved.
Melissa now accepts all of my family members and even my granddaughter's little Boston Terrier!
Member 1034946
answered on 5/25/11.
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Both our Guests are correct in their advice. I've had Izzie since he was 3 months old. He does not like to be held or carried. Some cats are like that. Cats also want to play when THEY want to play. You can entice them with a "fishing pole" hands-off sort of toy. Keep the playtimes short and calm, nothing crazy. She was probably never played with. If you can avoid shutting her in a room with or without you in there, do so. I can guarantee you that she feels trapped. Caution family and friends who visit that you are socializing this cat and to be careful when opening doors to the outside, not to mention to "leave her be" until she decides to come up to them. It's a process and one that, as our Guests advise, cannot be hurried or forced.
Izadore (Izzie)
answered on 5/26/11.
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