Undersocialized Kittens

A kitten (3 to 7 weeks old) who lacks positive interaction with humans is likely to be scared of people. Most kittens learn to trust people quickly, but some can take longer. Undersocialized kittens can make wonderful companions provided they receive plenty of positive interactions in the critical early socialization period. They may hiss, spit, swat, bite, or try to run away, but it’s important not to be afraid of them. They need to be handled whether they like it or not - be confident and gentle but firm.

To be fully socialized, a kitten must be:

• Able to be petted, picked up, and held

• Able to play appropriately

• Desensitized to common stimuli (e.g., being placed in carrier, having nails trimmed, having all body parts handled)

A properly socialized kitten should feel relaxed in most situations. Remember, if handled by only one person, kittens will learn to trust only that person. They must be handled by many different people so they will learn to trust people in general.

How to socialize:

STEP 1: Approaching and Petting

Start off by petting the kitten in the cage; kittens put on a big show but will not actually swat or bite.

• If the kitten doesn’t panic, you may pick it up.

• If the kitten panics and runs away, continue to talk softly, or try to gently touch the kitten for a short time. You also can try holding it gently without picking it up, but it will need to be picked up before long!

STEP 2: Handling and Scruffing

• With your dominant hand, gently but firmly grasp the shoulder blades and pull upward until you are holding the flap of loose skin on the back of the neck (scruff) in your hand.

• Support and control the rear feet with your other hand… that’s how mom carried it!

STEP 3: New Experiences

• A well-rounded kitten should have varied, positive, daily experiences involving play, new sights, sounds, and activities.