Looking for very patient people!
Scroll down to see our GALLERY of shy/semi-feral kitties.
They need stability, gentleness, & patience.
Shy cats are often the last to be chosen, overshadowed by their more outgoing counterparts, but they are the ones who need love the most. These timid souls have often faced hardship, leaving them slow to trust, but with patience, sweet talk, and treats, they can learn that the world isn’t so scary. They may hide for weeks, and they might never be lap cats, but every small sign of trust—a curious glance, a slow blink, a tentative step forward—is a reward like no other. Offering a shy cat a home is an act of pure kindness, giving them the chance to feel safe, loved, and cherished—perhaps for the first time in their lives. And who knows? One day, that once-fearful kitty may surprise you with a head bump or a quiet nuzzle. Open your heart to a shy cat, and you’ll be doing something truly special—changing a life, one gentle moment at a time.
If you can't adopt, why not sponsor one or two? Sponsoring provides much needed help for these cats!
It's only $10 a month! Hover on the "Donate and Help" tab, above, then click "Sponsor a Cat."
It's only $10 a month! Hover on the "Donate and Help" tab, above, then click "Sponsor a Cat."
Iris and Maude are sisters. They are fun and pretty girls, and will eat from your hand and play! However, they can't be touched. If you just want to open your home to them and don't need a friendly lap cat or a snuggler, one or both will be fine. We can tell you more about them--just ask! They do not have to be adopted together.
Click on any pic to see fully.
Click on any pic to see fully.
Click on any picture to learn more.
Shy? Feral? What's the Difference?
Shy and semi-feral kitties will bond with their adopter, although it might take them a little longer to come out of their shell. A feral born kitty will realize who is taking care of them. They often will seek love on their terms, which could be sitting near you, coming to you, and they do better in a quieter home. They may not be a cuddle type of cat, but usually they do like to play with strings or toys. One just has to be patient. In contrast, a shy kitty will most likely cuddle on your bed, want to be around you, and will come to you seeking affection and pets. Shy kitties do everything a more outgoing kitty will do, but on a smaller scale. Often, shy cats (even ferals) turn the corner and just love their adopters. Maybe not strangers or anybody else, but they love the one who feeds them, talks to them, gives them blankets and beds to cuddle up in.
As we always say, we've seen miracles happen with patience, treats, and sweet-talk!
Shy and semi-feral kitties will bond with their adopter, although it might take them a little longer to come out of their shell. A feral born kitty will realize who is taking care of them. They often will seek love on their terms, which could be sitting near you, coming to you, and they do better in a quieter home. They may not be a cuddle type of cat, but usually they do like to play with strings or toys. One just has to be patient. In contrast, a shy kitty will most likely cuddle on your bed, want to be around you, and will come to you seeking affection and pets. Shy kitties do everything a more outgoing kitty will do, but on a smaller scale. Often, shy cats (even ferals) turn the corner and just love their adopters. Maybe not strangers or anybody else, but they love the one who feeds them, talks to them, gives them blankets and beds to cuddle up in.
As we always say, we've seen miracles happen with patience, treats, and sweet-talk!
Are you one of those very rare, experienced cat lovers who has saved and adopted several cats already, including some feral cats? If so, you know that feral cats who get along well with other cats but not so much with humans can still be adopted, as long as the adopter knows the feral cat will likely not bond with her and is okay with that. Please watch this very inspirational video about a shelter cat named Archie and his "Dear Santa" letter! THE VIDEO
Need more inspiration to adopt a skittish or even a semi-feral cat? Read this article about
Grandpa Mason, the transformation of a hard-core, feral cat.
Grandpa Mason, the transformation of a hard-core, feral cat.
STILL not sure about adopting a shy cat?? Read this:
Man takes a chance on cat cowering in the corner, & 90 minutes later . . .
Man takes a chance on cat cowering in the corner, & 90 minutes later . . .