7 month old rescued kitten suddenly afraid of us?

by Greg
(San jose, CA)

My wife, daughter and I adopted a second rescued cat two weeks ago. He is fixed, initial shots and chipped. We also have a 2 year old torti that we also adopted.

Initially the two cats had normal territorial issues. This mellowed after a few days and the new kitten would even come to my wife and I and let us pet him. He seemed to love it.

One night, he visited my wife and I on the couch. We took turns petting him and he even laid down on my lap for a bit while I scratched his head and neck.

My wife picked him up and held him and he loved it. He came back to me and I tried to pick him up. He freaked out and bolted.

Ever since this event whenever we get near him he bolts.

He loves our torti and the two cats are best buddies now and play together often.

Very disturbing for us all and we don't know what to do other than leave him alone.

Thanks

Greg

Answer from Kate
Hi I have seen this happen before and sometimes it can be something as simple as a sudden strange smell or sudden noise which they then associate with you.

You need to give the cat some spcae nad time and allow him to find his confidence in you on his own terms.

I have a page about bonding with your cat which you may find of further help

https://www.our-happy-cat.com/new-cat.html

best wishes kate

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