How to Help a Victim of Cat Abuse

An abused cat can be horribly injured on the outside, or the injuries may only be to the cat's emotions. In either case, the animal will need to be treated differently than the average feline. A cat who has suffered emotional damage can be much more difficult to help than one who has been physically abused. How can you help your cat abuse victim learn to trust and enjoy humans again?

Patience is key to helping the kitty. Usually, cats who have suffered abuse are either mean or lethargic. Mean kitties still care about what happens to them and are actually easier to tame. Lethargic cats have given up on life and are more difficult to reach.

Use a soft voice and slow actions when around the animal. A loud voice or vigorous motions may cause him or her to be afraid. Do not attempt to play with or touch the cat until you are approached. This could mean that you have to not touch kitty for days or even weeks. When the cat comes to you, allow yourself to be sniffed or even give a gentle petting. Eventually, the kitty should get comfortable with you to allow you to approach him or her.

With mean cats, be sure to keep in mind that you could be scratched or bitten and protect yourself. Be sure to never intentionally or accidentally make the animal feel trapped as he or she may attack you.

For a lethargic cat, try bringing in a companion cat. As the abused cat sees the other animal getting attention and love from you, he or she will begin to seek out the same.

Remember that dealing with a victim of cat abuse can be a long process. By being gentle and letting the cat initiate contact with you, your kitty should eventually turn into a loving pet.


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