How to Help Your Shy Cat Become Friendlier

By nature, cats like to be alone. It makes sense for an animal that sleeps 80 percent of the day to be solitary. Some cats simply want nothing to do with other members of the household. Other cats can be so painfully shy that the slightest movement or noise sends them running for a hiding spot. An aloof cat isn't the same as a shy cat. Shy cats cower or hide when visitors enter the home. Aloof cats will sit directly on a sofa right before you try to entertain your guests in the family room. Some cats hide under the bed, shy away from visitors and sling around the house in fear. Help your cat become more sociable and a happy member of the family with these tips to help a shy cat become friendlier.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cat toys
• Cat bed
• Cat comb and brush

1. Review your animal's life and medical history. Shy cats often come from shelters, rescue organizations or as strays. These animals require socialization before they will readily interact with humans. If your cat wasn't socialized to be around humans as a kitten or was abused, this might be the cause of the shyness.

2. Be a good pet parent. Care for your animal to the best of your ability by providing the a clean cat box, high-quality cat foods and plenty of fresh water should be available for your shy cat at all times. Include a warm cat bed and climbing tower as items specifically designed to comfort your cat.

3. 
    
   A soft cat bed and toys

   Add playtime to your daily routine. Pull off the plastic tab of a milk jug or purchase a simple cat toy. Wiggle the toy around the floor to encourage your cat to play. Laser cat penlights work well to encourage your cat to play without placing the individual too close to a shy animal.

4. Groom the cat regularly. Even the shyest cat has a tough time ignoring the bliss of a good brushing. Sit on the floor and use a sturdy metal pet comb and brush to groom your cat every day, if possible. This special time is entirely non-threatening and will become something both of you will look forward to. Providing a basic need helps establish a trust relationship with your cat. Regular brushing also benefits your cat with reduced hairballs and shedding.

5. Encourage family members to speak softly and remain calm when the cat roams the living spaces of the house. Avoid making quick movements or loud noises around the cat until he becomes conditioned to these situations. If you're expecting a house full of people, find a safe and quiet, out-of-the-way spot for the cat to relax. Don't forget his food, water, cat box and bed.

6. Sit down or kneel when petting the cat. A natural prey-predator reflex involves hunching down near the floor. This fear reflex shouldn't be encouraged and provides a clear sign that your cat is afraid. Lower yourself to the cat's level for his comfort.

Tips & Warnings

• Shy cats present a considerable challenge for a pet owner and lover.
• Patience and careful attention to the care of your animal can help minimize your cat's shyness.
• Recognize that some cats remain shy throughout their lives. Your primary aim lies in teaching your cat that people aren't bad. Do this with gentle encouragement, good care and attention.
• Socializing an abused or abandoned animal can take weeks or months, depending on the animal's situation.