How do I get my scared kitten more comfortable?

Question

I found two stray kittens (6-7 weeks old) 5 days ago, one male and one female. The male kitten is very affectionate and playful but the female is extremely frightened by people.

She follows the male kitten around everywhere and is reluctant to be touched unless he's around, and even then she's very skittish. I've tried picking her up before and she squirmed and scratched so I let her go quickly.

I want to take them to the vet as soon as possible to give them their routine shots and take care of what seems to be an eye problem with the female kittens right eye.

Is there anyway to quickly get her comfortable around us so that she can at least be picked up??? Every time we get too close to her she runs and hides.

I know I can always just grab her and put her in a carrier, if worst comes to worst, but I don't want to make her more scared or give her any bad memories with us.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

(Will pick best answer)

Answer 1

This takes some patience but is rewarded with unconditional love in the end.  Females tend to be more skittish than males and take a little longer to come around.  Put them in a small room with their food and litter box so it will become their comfort zone.  Visit them frequently and talk to them lots.  If you have one that is more social it is much easier.  The trick usually is to get him purring and she will wonder what is so great.  These are my favorite cases to rehabilitate because they learn to love and trust so fast:)  Lots of time and love are the key.  It usually only takes a day or two for the loving but may take a little longer to be able to hold and cuddle with her.  

Answer 2

Go ahead and get her to the vet, she'll get over it.  Put her in the carrier with her brother, that will make it easier for them both.

Other than that, just be patient with her.  Pet her when she'll allow it and don't try to force anything on her.  Some of them never like to be picked up, so don't worry about that.  Try to comply with her needs.  She may always be a bit shy but she will get better.  Try not to make her the center of attention, that may upset her.  As she watches you interact with her brother she will gradually learn to be more comfortable.

We found a little 5 week old boy about 5 weeks ago and he hid for awhile.  He had to go to the vet quickly because we have other kitties and needed him to be tested and wormed.  He was upset but he got over it very quickly.  He likes to sleep in the carrier, so I'm assuming the experience wasn't that upsetting for him.  Our other cats have helped us socialize him.  His best friend is an older kitten who loves people, so he has a good role model.  Sometimes now he's get a bit nervous when we're walking around but any other time he's fine with us - and sometimes he pounces on our feet.  He does hate to be picked up though, I doubt that will change.  

good luck with them!

you've saved their lives!

Answer 3

I had the same situation a while ago, just give it a few weeks. Pet her, love her and she'll come around. My kitty is in my lap right now purring. She was the same, very skittish and scared of everything.

Answer 4

I have to cats. One is very social and the other gets freaked out really easily and runs under the bed when people come over.

Since it was a stray and you just found them they will be nervous. Give it some time and give them a chance to settle in and get use to their new home.

Try getting some cat nip or cat treats. Put in a quiet room away from the male cat. Once the cat comes, gentle pet it. If you talk, talk in a small quiet voice and try not to make any sudden movements.

If this doesn't work don't worry. Its just a matter of time until she gets use to you and her new home.

Answer 5

try sitting in the middle of the floor and talk to her calmly  don't grab at her or make loud noises also try to  bribe her with food or a toy like a  feather wand you can get them at any place that sells pet stuff  i found that tuna works the best for bribing good luck and thank you for saving  2 little kittens from  the out doors