Working with Skittish or Shy Animals
DATE POSTED: 5-22-2021
Some of my notes from Ken Ramirez's presentation yesterday (Shelter Playgroup Alliance Conference weekend).
This webinar is so very relevant to my interests because my cat Shimmy is what people would label "Skittish". For the first two weeks after we adopted her, she wouldn't eat if anyone was nearby or watching. She is easily startled or worried by movements and sounds - and will flee and hide. She forms negative associations quickly.
Shimmy spends a lot of time under furniture and when she is hiding, she won't take treats. If she does approach for a treat, she will retreat after eating. Her favorite thing is the Food Activity Puzzle tray because she can get the treats by herself. She will take a treat from my hand but only sometimes.