Getting a new kitten or cat is exciting. Whether you have one already and are getting an addition to the family, or whether you getting one for the first time, socializing your new furry friend should be right at the top of your agenda. You know, next to the litter box training? It’s too bad that a lot of people don’t think of socialization as being an important part of owning a pet. In fact, socialization makes all the difference between a timid, aggressive, shy, scared, and/or irritable cat and a sweet, cuddly, loving, trusting, bundle of joy. Socialization also teaches your cat the rules of the house, what kind of behavior is allowed and what isn’t. This is especially important if you have children in the house that might possibly be chasing your kitty around, picking him up in odd ways, and petting him a little too roughly for his liking. A well socialized cat will put up with all these things without lashing out, and that is what you want in a cat.
Obviously, the best time to start socialization is during the early kitten months, from around 3-9 months is best. (Paw Prints and Purrs, 2007). However, you can socialize a cat at any age. The older they are, the harder and longer it will be before your cat is fully socialized. However, you may also adopt a cat that is completely friendly and has already been socialized. This brings me to my first point. The breed of cat you get, and the cat itself, help to determine just how friendly and sociable your cat will be. Some cats, like some breeds of dogs, are just more friendly and tolerant than others. If you’re looking for a cat that is reputable for being great with kids, do a little research online, and ask friends, family, and co-workers what they recommend. There is no use in getting a cat notoriously known for its impatience with kids if you have two kids and another on the way. There is also no point in getting a cat like this if you are planning on having kids in the near future. Consider before you pick a kitten or cat your future plans so that you can ensure that you can provide a good home for your pet for the duration of its life.
As soon as you get your pet, you need to start presenting as many opportunities for socialization as possible. While many cats are scared after entering a new home, you can be very comforting to them. Handle them often, hold them gently, stroke them, play with them, and talk to them. According to Paw Prints and Purrs, and agency dedicated to cat health and cat owner education, “Early handling of kittens decreases their approach time to strangers and increases the amount of time they stay with them.” Ever wonder why some cats will walk right up to a stranger, purr, meow, and seem content to be pet by them? Ever wonder why others will avoid strangers like the plague? Socialization is the difference between the two cats.
Here’s the key; reward good, desirable behaviors. For example, hold the cat for a while, pet him, have him sit in your lap. At the end of it, give him a treat. Play with your cat gently, if he plays nicely and doesn’t bite or scratch you, give him a treat. Gradually take your interaction to the next step. Pet the cat’s paws, tail, ears, all those spots that cats are generally sensitive about. Being able to touch your cat anywhere will help in administering medication when needed, help with grooming, and help a veterinarian also be able to handle your cat when needed. Additionally, it will make your cat more patient with children touching its tail, feet, and cute little nose. If and when you’re able to do these things reward each occurrence. If he lets you pet and play with his paws without pulling away or getting irritated, give him a treat. If he lets you stroke his ears, clean his ears, or the like, give him a treat. I think you get it. Try not to punish bad behavior too much, you want to encourage trust and show them affection. You don’t want your cat to associate you with yelling. Instead, if your kitty associates you with comfort and affection, and associates good behaviors with good things, they will strive to achieve this good behavior as opposed to the bad that gets them nowhere. Cats are very bright, aren’t they?
Remember that socialization also deals with meeting people and reacting well around them. You don’t want your kitty to jump off the couch and run away when strangers enter the room. However, the sort of behavior you’re looking for (friendly, sociable behavior) may take a while to achieve in this area. Allow your pet to set the terms of this area of socialization. Allow them to decide when they are ready to come out and meet the guests. If they are being especially reluctant and not letting that kitty cat curiosity get the better of them, tempt them with a little treat. (Bohnenkamp, 2005). Bribing your cat is a good way to help them get over their fears and conquer them. Giving the cat a choice will help to build trust and faith in you, but also let the cat know that they are in control of their lives. Cats like this.
Once they have given in and come out to meet the guests, allow the guests to pet the cat, play with the cat. Encourage they be gentle to begin with, especially until you’ve fully socialized your cat. Don’t forget to treat here too! If they come out to see you and your guest, give them a treat! If they interact nicely, give them a treat. Now I know you don’t want to make your kitty obese while training, so choose a nice healthy treat and give them in small portions. You can use cat nip, little fish bites, pieces of boiled meat, and the list goes on. There are hundreds of choices at local pet stores. Just remember to treat often in a way that encourages good behavior, but minimally so you don’t ruin your cat’s appetite before his evening meal, or tack on ten to fifteen pounds in the first couple weeks.
Cat socialization takes time. Some cats socialize easily, others take a while. Be persistent, and be consistent. Be gentle, supportive, and loving to your pet, and give them every opportunity to interact with you and the people in your home. Hold your cat, play with him, pet him. Play roughly (but not hurting him, just rub his belly and things like that) with him but discourage biting, that way he is ready for anything and everything. In this way he’ll have the patience and tolerance to deal with just about anything and you can be sure he won’t lash out. Socializing your cat isn’t hard, but it does take time and patience. Encourage his good behavior with treats and praise, and give your kitty a good home and bed and he will be eternally grateful and exceptionally happy.
References:
Bohnenkamp, G. (2005). Cat Aggression and Socialization. Retrieved April 15, 2007, from Perfect Paws Website
Paw Prints and Purrs. (2007). Socialization of the New Cat. Retrieved April 15, 2007, from Paw prints and Purrs Inc Cat Health Care Website
