Helping Cats Who Hiss and Hide: Assessments, Behavior Modification and Re-Homing Strategies for Shy and Fearful Cats

Can cats who are shy and fearful in the shelter still get adopted?

Yes, says board certified veterinary behavior specialist Dr. Sheila Segurson. Feline behavior while in a shelter is not always a good representation of that same cat's behavior in less stressful surroundings. Proper housing, handling, and, if needed, behavior modification can turn that hissing and hiding cat into a beloved family pet.

Cats who remain scared and fearful can have a happy outcome, too. Attendees will learn how to use the information gained in assessments and by observation to place them into either a home adoption program or barn and community cat programs.

In this presentation, you will learn:

What types of cats might show fear and fearful aggression

How to handle intake of shy and fearful cats

How to house and handle shy, fearful cats to reduce stress

How to treat shy and fearful cats with behavior modification, enrichment, medication and more

Options for rehoming shy, fearful cats

How to provide post-adoption support for these cats

Presenter: Sheila Segurson, DVM, DACVB

shy cats, fearful cats, behavior modification, cat behavior, rehoming cats, feline stress, feline assessment, feline behavior modification, re-Homing strategies, feline behavior, cat behavior, in-shelter welfare, maximize physical and behavioral health, Animal & Population Management, Animal Behavior, feline training, feline enrichment, cat behavior, webcast