There are about 12 cats in my neighborhood. Half of them are still kittens. When I see a cats/kittens, they keep running off to stranger's backyards. How do I keep them from doing that and just think of me as a good person, not a bad one? Please, I need help! Also, can I take one of the cats/kittens home too if they just got used to me or just let them feel be and try to earn more of their trust until the next time?
2007-10-04 14:09:00 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Cats
It takes time, but cats catch on quick when food is involved.
Put a water bowl out all the time, they need that as well as food.
Put dry food out at a regular time every day--doing a special call for the cats when you do. I just call 'kitty kitty kitty here buff'. Then at various times of the day, take a plate out with scraps or wet food, doing the same call. Don't make eye contact with the cats, just go out and call, put the plate down and walk back to the house. They'll catch on that the off hours food coming out is better tasting than the dry food and will keep an ear out for you.
Let them feel safe eating with you at least 40 feet away, they'll come closer when they feel comfortable. It can take a long time, they learn to be cautious of all people but as I say, food does help break down barriers.
2007-10-04 14:14:30 · answer #1 · answered by Elaine M 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Sounds like you are dealing with feral cats. These are cats that are born wild. They do not trust humans. You can feed them by just putting food out. They will come and eat it when there are no humans around. But if you feed them, Very soon 12 will become 20 and so on. Be prepared for a feral cat population explosion. This may not set well with your neighbors. However, if you live on a farm or ranch, feral cats are good at keeping the mouse and rat population in check. Also gofers and other rodents that love the hay and feed. Also... It's not a good idea to try to catch one of the kittens. When cats open their eyes for the first time, if they do not see humans, they remain afraid of them. They will claw and bite and go nuts trying to get away. Of course that's if you can get close enough to even touch one of them.
2007-10-04 14:18:13 · answer #2 · answered by onedrin 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you really want to get the cats to get used to you it will take some time, especially if they are not tame cats.
One thing you can do to keep feeding them for awhile. After you feed them, walk away but still let the cats see you. They will start to realize you are feeding them. The more they see you the less scared they will be.
I tamed a wild cat and I would do the same and one day he was asleep in my yard and I pet him and pick him up by the scruff of his neck and pet on him. After awhile he would not run, and he would get closer to the house. Now he is the biggest lap cat you've ever seen.
Let the cat gain your trust and get use to you. Hope some of this helps you.
2007-10-04 14:19:39 · answer #3 · answered by J-me 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have the same problem. But there was one cat in my neighborhood, she's black, that just loves me. I approached her quietly with a cat treat and soon started feeding her, now she comes around every morning, but I warn you feeding all the cats in the neighborhood can be pretty costly. I should know because I now have two cats and one dog, I have to go out and buy food every week or so. Good luck with them.
2007-10-05 05:22:16 · answer #4 · answered by Dogs Rule:) 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
One word: TUNA. Get some cans of tuna, and offer them to the feral kitties. Honestly, I've tried all kinds of wet cat food, and tuna works better than anything else. Put it out there and leave it for a couple of days. Once they get comfy with the tuna, and they will, sit near it once you deliver it. They will be scared, but they will eventually give into the temptation, even with you there. Keep working their comfort zone like this until you can pet one or more. Have patience and work on it. You'll have a kitty before you know it! Good luck, sweetie! Your heart is in the right place.
2007-10-04 14:20:08 · answer #5 · answered by rb29440 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Since they are strays, it's good they run from you. It shows
they don't have rabies. You could take one or two in. I caught
three and kept them in the cage to observe for a ten day period. Then took them to the vet and then found homes for
two and kept one. I still have mine after 10 years. He's healthy and so nice. Good luck.
2007-10-04 14:31:05 · answer #6 · answered by dee 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋