How to Socialize Feral Kittens
The younger a kitten is, assuming it is weaned, the easier it will be to socialize it. However, it is not impossible to socialize older feral kittens and cats--just more difficult.
Here are key things to keep in mind throughout the socialization process:
1. Gentle is best
2. Be quiet in voice and demeanor
3. Be patient
The best thing to do first is to get them inside and in an enclosed space. Try to insure the area is as quiet and non-threatening as possible. Keep other cats away, except, of course the mother (if you have been able to humanely capture her).
Begin interacting with them in short intervals. Let them get used to your presence and then introduce toys. I use quiet dangly toys that can be enticingly, but quietly, pulled along the floor. Once you get the kittens playing, it will be easier to win their trust. You want them to associate you with food and fun, and then, later, with comforting touch (petting).
Remember that their first impression of you will be that you are a large monster who has captured them and confined them to a strange area. Do not take their fear personally-- after all, how would you feel if some huge creature came and snatched you up and placed you in a weird environment?
Depending on individual personalities-and all cats are definitely individuals-the kitten may trust you quickly, or it may take a significant amount of time. You have to have patience in this.
Eventually, during play you can lure them close enough to be petted. Some will take to this right off; others will flee from you at the first touch. Try not to be discouraged. Never force it. Forcing things will just make the kitten nervous and distrustful.
Once a kitten allows you to pet it, you have won half the battle. There is still a lot of work to be done, however. Continue to play with the kitten each day at frequent intervals. Increase the petting and pet it whenever it wants to be petted.
Once the time is right, you can pick the kitten up and get it used to being handled and held. When you place the kitten back down, do so gently. Do not drop it. Cats are very athletic, but dropping a kitten from any height can make it fearful and less inclined to want to be picked up or held.
Published by Chris M. Carmichael
Chris M. Carmichael writes on a wide range of topics and has a broad range of interests (and experience), including Screenwriting, Acting, Forensic Science, Pets, Martial Arts and Abnormal Psychology. Chris... View profile
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11 Comments
Post a Commentwe have two white kittens male and female they are both deaf, male won t let us pick him up or clip his nails, what are we to do.?
I am working the forth in a row of feral kittens trapped by the shelter where I volunteer. I take them home one at a time and work with them. It is so rewarding to watch them come around and learn to trust. It takes patience, and they respond to a soft and loving approach. So far each of my babies have found homes with other cats as well as experienced owners who understand and
are willing to continue to work with them. I love having the opportunity to work with these precious creatures. The
most critical part of their rehabilition
is a stress-free nurturing enviroment.
We trapped and brought home a feral kitten that was about 3 months old in the fall. He is doing great: roams the house, plays with toys, and even likes to sit and sleep with us. However, we still can't pet or pick him up. We've had him for four months. Do you suppose we'll ever be able to touch him without him batting us with his paws?
we found a mother cat and kittens behind our shed... i tamed her enought to let me pet her. her two kittens are about 3 months old but dont trust me. they eat food off my lap but wont let me touch them, the mom still enjoys my company and lets me pet her, at least. how do i gain their trust? they dont play too often, just around each other... WHAT IS THE SECRET?
we saved a feral kitten. he seems to know how and when to use the litter box, but still goes on the carpet too. i love him otherwise, and my husband says he has to go if he doesn't use the litter. please help!
Thank you for this extra reassurance. I found two feral kittens in my shed 3 days ago and they were absoulutely petrified of me. Now, on day 3, they are purring and meowing for me to pick them up.
I just found a little feral kitten a few weeks ago. Your advice will come in handy. Thanks:)
Oh how wonderful that you took a feral in. I hope she stops growling at your husband--as amusing as that is from this distance. :) She might continue for a while--she might think she is protecting you, and the entire world for that matter
I have a year old Feral right now. She has been in the house about 2 months, and finally this week I was able to actually pick her up after 2 weeks of petting on her terms. Now if I could get her to stop growling at my husband... HA!
Thanks , Laura! Your Audrey sounds wonderful :)