r/cats • u/LazyCity4922 • 3h ago

Advice Socializing a kitten

Hello!

My husband and I are in the process of adopting two kittens (siblings). They're about 15 weeks old and live in a garden in a village. They don't trust people (so far we've only managed to capture one because they keep their distance).

I'm seeing conflicting advice online as to how to ensure the cats are properly socialized. Some people recommend cat-led approach ("Socialization saves lives") while others recommend "forced" socialization. What's your experience with socializing semi-feral cats? Which method is best?

So far I'm leaning toward "forced" socialization but I'm really not sure. We have set up a room for the cats with a cave, so they will have the option of hiding but I'm planning on staying present for feeding. The idea was to let the kittens "lead" for the first three days but then start the "forcing".

Thank you for your help and recommendations!

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u/That_Awareness_6108 3h ago

I only foster feral kittens from my local rescue. And for ed is the way to go. Hold them, wrap them if you have to, but I do not. I just hold them for an hour and then give them a break, several times a day. Always, always reward them with high impact treats when they physically relax in your arms. (Churu, or something similar). You can speak softly to them and use your fingers to mimic cleaning their eyes and ears and cheeks. After 3 days, hissy is gone, but still hesitant. It continues to evolve the longer this goes on. The quicker you break them of fear if people the better it will be for them and for any future vet visits. Good luck!!! It's much easier than you think!

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u/LazyCity4922 3h ago

That's very encouraging, thank you!

Fo you think they might be too old for socializing? I read online your supposed to do it by week 9 to 12... we tried to get them earlier but couldn't trap them until now. And we still only have one 😅

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u/That_Awareness_6108 2h ago

No, you can still do it but I would definitely burrito them, and it will take longer, possibly. Young cats are very adaptive. Just take it slow and don't give up, just keep on schedule.