Spirit Cats

Ever thought of having a friend for your cat? You may be in the market for a Spirit Cat.

What is a spirit cat?

Spirit cats are very shy with people – another name for them could be “scaredycats”. They are often cats that weren’t socialized properly as kittens, or adults that spent their whole lives in one home and aren’t coping well with the shock of being displaced from their home. They are not mean or aggressive cats, they are simply scared and shy. However, they are usually wonderful companions for other cats, and are just as deserving of a loving home. Given time and patience, they should eventually be great companions for their people, too! Most will eventually become accustomed to one or two owners, in a calm and quiet home.

How to introduce a spirit cat into your home:

It is best for the first few days if you keep your new friend in a separate, enclosed room. This ensures that he doesn’t get into any strange hiding places, and you can monitor if he is eating/drinking/using the litter, especially if there’s another cat in the home. When you get home, open his carrier and prop the carrier door open then leave the room, allowing him to come out when he’s ready.

• Keep a bowl of dry food out at all times, and offer wet food once in the morning and once in the evening. Leave the room to allow her to eat.
• Use treats (or some other tasty food, i.e., KFC chicken) to try and draw him closer and closer to you each time.
• Once you do allow him to roam the house, DON’T PANIC if you don’t see him for a few days. Cats can be excellent hiders!

How to help make your spirit cat feel comfortable:

• Provide hiding spaces – enclosed cat beds, hidey holes, even cardboard boxes can all give your cat a sense of safety, and provide enrichment.
• Attempt to play, in short spurts, with your friend – e.g. using laser pointers or wand toys, or throwing jingle or crinkle balls.
• Continue to use treats and tasty food to draw your spirit cat closer to you.
• Consider a feliway diffuser (a pheromone diffuser which helps calm cats), available at most pet stores.
• Most important of all - BE PATIENT. Give your cat space and time to come to you. He/she WILL become more comfortable over time. This could take weeks, or even months. In the meantime, simply enjoy knowing that you’re giving a special cat the home he or she needs!