Timid Kitten

Question
We recently adopted two kittens in our family.  One is 8 mos old approx (female) the other is approx. 4mos old (male).  The female has come along wonderfully she will interact with our family, allows us to pet her and occasionally pick her up.  The male, is so very timid still. We have had them in our bedroom (the safe room) for approximately two weeks now and the male will not allow anyone near enough to pet him.  They were both rescue kittens and part feral. The woman that we adopted them from is really wonderful and always available however, I thought perhaps you might be able to give some insight and/or other techniques that would help us teach him how to trust us.  My main concern is that when it comes time to visit the vet, we will end up having to trap him, and I don't want to have to put the little guy through that.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Karyn

Answer
Hi Karyn,

Some cats take longer to tame than others. They need a little more effort. I would use some deli chicken to tempt him to you. Try to feed him this stuff on your lap or right by you. He needs to associate you with good things. And it should be only one person to attempt this. Too many people may be part of the problem. If he doesn't like chicken find something else that he goes nuts over and use it. It is going to take time. I had one cat that took almost a year but now is a love around me. Just be patient. He will come around. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen