Shy Cats

[RedHedd]

Welcome to Pet Talk. Yes, General is usually the best place to say Hi, I'm new; cat general works for us cat people. Everyone's shy cats are so beautiful and your two are GORGEOUS! Yes, it takes time and patience and lots of it. My Mitzi is a shy girl; she lets me pet her, but only me. Whenever anyone comes over, she immediately bolts under the bed. Many people don't realize I really do have two cats. The Feliway sounds like a good idea too - I've never used it, but many here have with good results.

[Felix]

I just wanted to say welcome to you and your beautiful kittys.My name is Marlaina and I am owned by my kitty Felix(You can see him in the siggy below)

[Winglover]

Thank you all for your tips and tricks. I was atually able to pet candy without her freakin out.
She was laying on the dog pillow next to my desk and was snuggling with spot, I was petting spot then "accidently" petting her. Then I was able to give her chin rubs for 2 minutes. Spot got up and walked away, when candy realized that a human was petting her she ran away. Well we made some progress, thats the most I was able to touch her since we have her

[Killer Kitten]

My husband and I adopted a three-legged, terribly shy cat many years ago. When we got her home from the shelter, she streaked out of the carrier and fled to the attic, where she took up residence behind some book shelves.

My husband would go up there every night and sit next to the shelves, reading out loud from whatever book he was currently enjoying. He would also periodically toss her some tasty cat treats.

After a couple months of this, Tripod was completely 'his' cat. She would appear as soon as he got home from work, squeezing into his chair with him or sitting at his feet gazing at him adoringly.

Not one to horn in on a partnership, I gladly played 'bad guy', being the one to do nail trimmings and capture her for vet visits when he wasn't home. She lived with us for 18 years, and was his girl the whole time.

I'd guess patience, gentleness and a ready supply of treats is your answer. Also having somebody else to do the evil stuff, like vet visits and grooming, so they don't associate you with negative experiences.

They're beautiful cats, best of luck with them.