Cats can be loveable, friendly pets — but sometimes they might not like you very much. If your cat has a lowered or puffed-up tail, it could mean they are afraid or uncomfortable. Cats might also bite you or hiss at you if they aren't your biggest fan.
Cats are independent creatures and have their own emotions and moods. If your cat doesn't feel like getting scratched or coming for a treat, well, chances are, they're just simply going to ignore you and keep doing whatever it is they prefer to do, which may include napping.
You can tell a lot about them by the ways they interact. Kittens who are perpetually stalking their siblings' tails and generally horsing around will be the most outgoing and playful. Kittens who are willing to play but don't initiate a lot of games on their own will generally grow up to be more laid-back.
For some kittens, this settling in period might be over within hours, while for others it could take days or even weeks. For very timid cats, the process could even take 4 to 6 weeks. Just rest assured that this is normal, and be patient.
Kittens under 8 weeks of age “tame up” very quickly. Usually within a few days. Remember that you are a big-scary-human to them and they have been through some major life changes in a few short days. They may hiss and spit and smack at you, but remember it is only out of fear, not aggression.
Kittens learn to socialise from 2 to 7 weeks of age. If, during this time, they weren't socialised with humans, they can be extremely afraid of them and will need a lot of patience and time to get over this fear.
Developing Your Kitten's Socialization Skills
So, invite people over to the house, let them meet your little bundle of joy, use a leash, and take your kitten to the farmer's market or pet store, if pets are allowed. Fill each of these experiences with toys and treats so your pet learns to love socializing.
Why Are Some Cats Less Affectionate Than Others? Most of the time, this just comes down to individual personality differences. However, some cats might be less affectionate because they didn't have enough socialization with humans when they were young kittens.
Kittens Need to Bite Something
The reason kittens bite us is simple: they're natural predators and they want to practice their attack on a moving object. In fact, kittens are biologically wired to attack an object that moves, so it's important to teach them how to play with toys--not fingers or feet--from a young age.
Cats, while often independent creatures, still crave attention and love, in addition to their obvious nutritional needs of fresh water, clean litter, and food. If you decide to bring a cat or kitten into your home, you should be prepared to spend at least 20 minutes a day giving your cat loving one-on-one attention.
Aggressive Biting, Scratching, and Fighting
If your kitten is displaying signs of aggression such as hard biting, scratching that draws blood, and dangerous fighting with other kittens, this is abnormal and problematic behavior.
Being picked up and held can make some cats nervous, as they are being restrained in your arms. This limits their options for escape if anything were to startle them. Cats are independent creatures, and although they often like to be up high, they like to choose their own perch and not be restrained whilst doing so.
An animal that isn't used to be touched will generally not enjoy being handled. This can make cuddling and grooming exceedingly difficult. An under-socialized pet will hate being brushed, having their teeth brushed or having their nails clipped. In fact, you may find that these chores are virtually impossible.
Spraying your cat with water can have long-term negative effects. On top of the physical discomfort, spraying your cat with water doesn't actually teach your cat better behaviors and could end up seriously confusing her.
Simply say, "No" when it engages in a negative behavior. If your cat stops the behavior when you ask, reward it with treats, a toy, or praise. If your cat does not listen when you say "No," try adding a small clap as well.
Most literature on feral kitten socialization suggests that kittens older than 8 weeks up to 6-8 months old, or even adult cats, can still be socialized and adopted, but they need more time and experienced attention.
Between 4 and 8 months of age, if there is time and capacity and if the kitten is showing meaningful signs of social behavior, the decision may be made to place the kitten in a foster home for socialization and eventual adoption. But keep in mind that socializing is time-consuming, especially for older kittens.