The veterinarian spoke about the best ways to socialize domestic cats

Cats, like people, have different personalities. And sometimes they are disappointing. However, experts reassure: there is a way to change their behavior. Only for this, the owners need to be patient, since the process is not fast, notes veterinarian, associate dean for operations at the Texas School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (USA) Stacey Ekman.

The key to successful socialization is to cat owners gradually introduced them to new conditions, sounds and situations. And at the same time, it is important that they take the initiative themselves, there is no need to force them.

Essentially, Ekman advises using trial and error. First, let the cat freely explore all corners of the apartment and other areas where it could potentially be (yard, cottage, and so on). Then let her listen to sounds familiar to people, such as the noise of a vacuum cleaner, cars and barking dogs. And then introduce you to other animals and people.

For example, if a cat reacted negatively to a new person, then first it is better to accustom it to the smell. "Give" her something of his things.

A similar method can help when meeting new animals. Try giving her someone else's toy, pushing her away, or literally shutting her up in another room while you're interacting with friends and their pets, for example.

“Owners need to create a barrier that their cat can't get through. Close the door to the room, for example. At the same time, you need to make sure that she has everything she needs - food, water and a clean tray. So she will get used to the smell of another animal and it will be easier for her to contact with him, ”says Ekman.

She notes that all of these socialization strategies are applicable regardless of the age of the animal, but kittens, of course, accept them more easily. The best period is up to 12 weeks. Later, cats become more shy and less willing to explore the world.

In the end, not all cats need to be in contact with the outside world to be happy, the expert reassures. If during the socialization period you realized that your pet is more comfortable alone, then it’s better to just provide him with ideal living conditions and perhaps he will reward you with loving purr.