So You Want To
Be A Good Cat Sitter?
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Working with Shelter Cats
by Jessica A. Mikos
Step 1:
Show Respect
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If a cat doesn’t know you, give them time to watch you.
Shelter cats have a back story and lived life on the streets and most went through tough experiences before being rescued.
These cats meow the meow and walk the walk but don’t expect them to behave however you want them to.
They are independent out of experience and may know more about life than you.
It is possible to earn a cat’s forgiveness if you decide to act in a way that offends the cat—apologize in a low (not shrill) tone.
Step 2:
Introduce Yourself to Cat
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When you start, move your hand slowly towards the cat and let the cat smell your hand before you touch.
If the cat seems calm enough, you can then pet gently.
If the cat is resisting you, don’t give up on the cat: try playing with the cat with something soft like a piece of your clothing to help the cat build trust.
Don’t abandon a cat just because he seems distant.
Many shelter cats have been through a lot of abandonment and have seen the ugly side of life.
Step 3:
Stay Calm
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Every cat is unique, but in general too much emotion can cause the cat stress and anxiety.
A cat is extra sensitive to stimuli.
Once you leave, they will brood and have that anxiety and not know what to do with it.
Kittens can appreciate some play and can take more of the extra energy.
Stay mindful of what point of view you are putting out because it’s just that—a point of view.
If that contains too much energy you may distress the cat.
Sudden silence and/or isolation can also distress a cat.
Step 4:
Encourage Cat
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Offer encouragement and don’t give up on the cat.
Consistency and unconditional love for the cat is key.
Help the cat learn to trust.
Step 5:
Cats Hide in Silence
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A panicked cat or a traumatized cat hides in silence.
These cats often will not meow.
Meowing would give away their location to a predator.
It has nothing to do with whether or not the cat loves you but everything to do with the fact that a panicked cat hides in silence.
Step 6:
Confidence Helps Cat Feel Secure
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Don’t handle or hold a cat like you’re going to drop it.
Cats will sense your hesitation and won’t trust you.
Stay firm and offer the cat security and comfort.
Step 7:
Soothe Cat
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Make sure cat feels special.
Start by commmunicating: speak with a soft, soothing tone. Sing gently.
Let the cat accept your touch.
Caress cat and pet cat
Hug cat and feel connected and at peace with cat: if you're not feeling it, the cat definitely isn't.