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3 Ways To Build Trust With A Stray Cat

When you are walking on the street, then you come across a malnourished and injured kitty. You begin to approach them, but they hiss at you and run away. At that moment, you might think they hate you so they need to slip out of the threatened area. But the fact is, you are ruining the progress of building trust with a stray cat. Ah hah, that explains it. I know you love cats, but when it comes to stray felines, you will want to learn how to approach them without making them scared. Once you earn their trust completely, you will be shocked because of their unfailing affection. So how can we conquer these poor things? 3 ways below are compiled to help you get closer to stray cats.

(h/t: iheartcats)

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#1 Understand body language

First thing first, you have to understand the changes in their body because that is how cats respond to the world. A frightened and aggressive cat demonstrates these signs: spitting, hissing, growling, swatting, biting, scratching, puffing fur and tail, arching back, swishing tail, and flattening ears.

A stray cat can bring a host of diseases, so you should be very careful and wise enough to avoid getting bitten. When they are in defensive mode, they are likely to hide and flee quickly. It may take a while for them to be less stressed. When you instantly approach the vulnerable moggy, you will never be able to make them surrender. But do not go away immediately if they show a bunch of aggressive reactions. Try to understand their predicament and follow the next step. You can read a cat language here.

#2 Giving food

A stray cat is always in severe starvation. They will come out of the hidden corner if you give them a small portion of food. Make sure you give them proper food which has a high amount of protein, minerals, vitamins, fat, and carbohydrate. Some cat-friendly food, such as lean and raw meat (beef, chicken, turkey, etc.), dry food, canned food, liver, cooked eggs, and tuna.

When you have the right food in your hand, gently place it on the ground and watch them eating from the distance. Why can’t you get attached to them through food immediately, you might ask. Stray cats are way more sensitive than domestic ones. Even if you know their body language, they still need space to acclimate. You can come back the next day when you leave the food for them. And that might be a better way to get closer to stray cats. Start enticing them bit by bit until they are no longer afraid of you and eat the food out of your hand.

Another way to catch the stray cat is to leave the food in the carrier. They will smell the food and come to it. However, people may provide some food that already has in the fridge but they do not know that is toxic for them. Here are 10 foods you shouldn’t give to a cat.

#3 Be patient

Stray cats, as said, are vulnerable and sensitive. They will not open up their hearts and earn the trust of someone unless humans have compassion for them. Cats have a good memory so their traumatic past can partially affect their behaviors. Building trust takes time, learn how to respect them by being patient and consistent. If you intentionally rush the progress, they will get more fear, which is worse for both of you. Tolerate them with time and space, and gradually, they will understand that you a not a threat. If a stray cat trusts you, it will slowly come to you or rub its head against your legs. When they start to do that, gentle scratch their head or chin. Make sure you will take them to the vet to get vaccinations, spayed, and neutered for their further welfare.

Cats require love, attention, food, respect, and trust. If you love these fluffy critters, take care of them with the best effort. It may not happen from day one because trust is the most important virtue that they need from their colony as well as humans. But soon enough, they will feel more comfortable, and it’s time for you to take them to the shelter or offer them a forever home!

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