Transformation of 'Shy' Shelter Cat Who 'Doesn't Like People' Proves Every Pet Deserves a Chance
It's no secret that rescue pets can need some extra time and patience before they start to come out of their shell. Some shelter cats and dogs will start to explore their new home after a day or two of decompression, but other could take weeks, or even months, to start feeling at home. As true rescue advocates know, however, the wait is oh-so-worth it.
One cat mom named Deanna learned this firsthand when she adopted a beautiful shelter cat in late 2022. She named the kitty Jolie, which also means "pretty" in French, and she let her new friend relax and explore at her own pace. Now, Jolie is a well-adjusted rescue cat who enjoys long naps and attention from Mom. Would you believe that the shelter said she "doesn't like people?"
Aww! Jolie and Dee are such a sweet duo, and I'm sure they both thank their lucky stars that they found one another. It's such a good thing that Dee didn't listen to the shelter workers! It may have appeared that this shy feline wasn't a fan of people, but it's equally likely that she just wasn't thriving in the shelter environment. I know I wouldn't be as friendly if I lived in a single, crowded room!
Related: Man's Impression of a Cat Who Pretends Not to Like People Is Pure Gold
I couldn't agree more with @naurrthankyou, who said, "All the 'she/he doesn’t like people' shelter animals just need to be given a chance." You can say that again! A little peace and quiet can work wonders for a stressed-out cat, though it looks like this white and tabby cat was already feeling more like herself the day that Dee brought her home. Sometimes, a rescued pet just knows when they're safe.
Helping a Shy Cat Shine
Many felines are naturally shy, but how can you tell when a rescue cat is just overwhelmed? Sometimes, only time will tell! Shyness in a shelter environment is only natural (animal shelters can be loud and overwhelming) but it can take time in a forever home before a cat feels like themselves, too.
When it comes to adoptions, animal rescuers recommend that pet parents follow the 3-3-3 rule. This guideline will tell you what you expect and how long it may take for a rescue pet to reach certain milestones. Within three days of coming home, for example, your new friend will likely feel safe enough to start exploring and even approaching you. Within three weeks, they'll start to get the hang of routines and expectations, but around the 3-month mark, they may start testing boundaries and showing their true colors.
As Dee knows, this journey can be difficult and time-consuming, but it's so worth it to have a feline best friend like Jolie!
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