How to help a cat that has been mistreated?

Adopting a cat that has been mistreated in the past is a noble act. However, keep in mind that in this case it will take a huge amount of patience and a long time for the mistreated cat to come into contact with you. How can you help a mistreated cat get used to a new family?

Photo: maxpixel.net

If you are willing to stock up on patience and time, the result will be worth all the effort. But you need to follow a number of rules that will help a cat with a bad past adapt to new conditions and trust people.

Rules for adapting a mistreated cat

1. At first, provide the cat complete rest. In no case should a cat experience stress, especially reminiscent of the torment experienced. At the same time, it is necessary to provide the cat with comfortable living conditions. 
2. Talk to the cat calm and quiet, reward with a tasty treat any manifestation of interest in the world around you. Spend some time every day in the room where the cat lives – read a book or just sit on the couch. It’s helpful to drop some treats on the floor from time to time, even if the cat isn’t ready to leave its hiding place just yet.
3. Provide for the cat cozy shelter in a calm place. You can put cardboard boxes in which the cat can hide.
4. At first, you should take care of the cat the same person. Do not allow other household members, especially children and pets, to interact with the cat during this time. When the purr gets used to one person and ceases to be afraid of him, will show curiosity, you can gradually introduce her to other family members and guests. Please note that this may take quite a long time. Don’t rush or force things.
5. Do not force the cat to do something for which she is not yet ready, do not try to pet her by force. Give her timeso that she herself decides to contact you.

In the photo: the cat is hiding. Photo: flickr.com

A cat that has been mistreated can be a pitiful sight. But in a new family, where she is surrounded by love and care and given the opportunity to adapt, most cats bloom again and delight their owners.