high-strung cat

[nasale]

Wow! I've never experiences anything like my most recent addition to my menagerie. She's a Siamsese/Himalayan cross(so I'm told) I've had this cat for a week and I've only held her twice. She keeps disappearing. I've never seen such a skittish cat! What do I do- leave her alone and let her come to me, or confine her area so she has to interact more? I don't want to make matters worse by forcing her, but how long can this continue if she'fs left alone HELP!!! ANYBODY!!!

[catlady1945]

When we got our Ginger 15 years ago, she was the same way. She hid, only coming out to eat. We just left her alone to get used to the place at her own pace. She was really just not a cuddly cat. Now that she is older, she has mellowed a lot. She loves to sit on my lap.

[nasale]

I really appreciate your help. Ive never had a cat like this before and she really has me concerned. I will just leave her food out and give her space. I have another cat and she seems to be okay with him. Maybe he can draw her out (eventually!)

[smokey the elder]

I think a week is much too early to be worried. Adults often take longer to adjust than kittens. That, among other things, is why I confine fosters to one room, so I can find and comfort them.

Good luck, and welcome to Pet Talk! Warning: this site may be habit forming.

[nasale]

I guess I was a little premature in worrying. She actually came to me in the middle of the night (jumped up on my bed) but one of my birds flapped his wings at the sight of her and she disappeared again(sigh). I don't know who scared who the most. She sure is a sweety, though. I think she'll be worth the wait Thanks for the welcome. So far, I've met a really nice friend and hope to meet many more.

[Karen]

I'm glad she's already making overtures of friendliness! She sounds beautiful - is she fluffy like a Himalayan, or smooth like a Siamese?

[nasale]

She's smooth like siamese, and very tiny compared to my other cat, Butch. He's black, but has 'tabby stripes' that are visable only in sunlight. I've never seen that before! (I will probably find out it's quite common) These two cats are polar oppposites in personality. I hope they compliment each other. She cries for Butch some times at night and I'm glad to see she's taking some comfort from his company. He's a gentle soul. I have ten birds and he's never tried to hurt them. He actually 'plays' with my crow! I have a little trepidation when it comes to the siamese and my birds but I think I can teach her that they are not prey. Hope wecan talk again! nasale