The bathroom has the added benefit of being a place where people normally go. This will allow your kitten to get accustomed to people, which is an important part of her socialization. [4] X Research source Other than a bathroom, you could choose another small room that doesn’t have furniture (e. g. , couch, bed) that your kitten could easily hide under or behind. [5] X Research source Make sure the area is quiet—loud noises would startle your kitten. [6] X Research source
Pheromones are chemicals that animals use to communicate with each other, and can have a calming effect. [8] X Research source Cat pheromones are commercially available as spray products and plug-in diffusers at your local pet store. These pheromones can calm your kitten and help her feel less timid. Your kitten will need regular veterinary visits, so she will need to get comfortable with her carrier. Place her carrier in the room. Put some comfortable blankets in the carrier and leave its door open so she can explore it whenever she chooses. [9] X Research source
Before you enter your kitten’s space, knock lightly on the door a few times and call out her name. [11] X Research source Talk in a soothing voice to your kitten. You could even sing her lullabies![12] X Trustworthy Source Best Friends Animal Society Nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving animal lives by operating and supporting no-kill animal shelters Go to source Try slow blinking with your kitten. Slow blinking communicates friendliness. When she does a slow blink back at you, then you will know she feels safe around you. [13] X Research source Other than talking quietly with her, you could also read a book or do another quiet activity around her. Do not be surprised if your kitten does not want to get anywhere near you at first. Let her approach you on her terms, always.
When it’s meal time, place her food bowl a few feet away from you at first. Similar to tossing the treats, gradually shorten the distance between you and the food bowl. [18] X Research source Try working up to placing the treats or her food bowl in your lap to encourage her to climb into your lap. You could also place some tasty food on your finger to see if she will eat food from your finger. [19] X Research source
Because your kitten is timid, it may take a few tries before she actually eats in your presence. [21] X Research source
Stroking your kitten as she eats will help her develop a positive association with you and the food you serve her. Give your kitten verbal praise by telling her how brave she is. [22] X Research source
Ping-pong balls are another good interactive toy, since you can roll them around on the floor and watch your kitten chase them. [23] X Research source Select a variety of interactive toys.
As you introduce her to new toys, repeat the same acclimation process.
Give your kitten treats as you play with her. [26] X Research source Schedule several play sessions each day and keep them short (5 to 10 minutes).
