Reducing Fear of Humans in Feral Kittens
Dr. Jeff Nichol, DVM, IAABC Veterinary Behaviorist
Question:
I have a nonprofit cat rescue, ForeclosurePets, here in Washington State (I am a NM native). I currently have a mom, who is very friendly, and her 3 kittens. They are about 9 weeks. I got them 2 weeks ago. The kittens will play at a distance with a teaser, and I have gotten them to eat wet food with me sitting on the floor near them. I need to get them people friendly.
Dr. Nichol:
Thanks for doing such important work. The mother cat’s affinity for you indicates that she had positive human exposure prior to the age of 5-7 weeks. Her kittens, being uncomfortable getting up-close-and-personal, may have missed that benefit. Sadly, at age 9 weeks it’s getting a bit late for them.
Use food to slowly and patiently lure those little scaredy cats a bit closer. If their only opportunities to eat involve a person sitting quietly nearby they can learn to associate good things with a human presence. You will need to be patient; real change could take months. Quick movements, loud voices, or reaching would startle them and set the process back. Feliway could help these babies. The safe and good-tasting antianxiety supplement Zylkene can also reduce the butterflies in their little tummies.
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About the author
Dr. Jeff Nichol, DVM, IAABC is a residency trained veterinary behaviorist whose practice is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of behavior disorders of dogs and cats. With extensive experience in general practice and behavior medicine, he works with pet parents to tailor practical, individualized treatment plans to improve the well-being of pets and their people.
Dr. Nichol regularly writes about the treatment of behavior problems, including anxiety, aggression, fear, separation, house soiling, and other common concerns in companion pets.
