Accepted Answer

Thank you for the additional information. This is a frustrating situation, because the one thing your daughter wants (to hold and pat this kitty) may not happen. Not all cats like to be held, and that may be the case with this kitty. Added to that is the fact that she was not well treated early in life, and this kitty may be standoffish. Since the rescue remedy, prescription meds and feliway did not work, it is unlikely that anything else would work. In time this kitty may tolerate being patted, but your daughter should prepare herself for the possibility that this might not happen. Forcing contact in a kitty this age that is already shy can do more damage than good, and I do agree that she should be left to do what makes her happy. If your daughter has access to a veterinary behaviorist, this specialist can be very helpful in getting her kitty to enjoy affection.

 

The addition of another kitty may or may not be helpful. It could make things much worse, or much better. Unfortunately, it is impossible to tell until you introduce another kitty. Hopefully your daughter can find a way to break this kitty out of her shell, but she needs to be prepared that it might not happen. Please let me know if I can be of further assistance. If this has been helpful, please hit the green accept button. Best of luck :)

Expert:	ERAnimalNurse
Pos. Feedback:	99.4 %
Accepts:
Answered:	8/25/2009

Emergency Critical Care Nurse

16+ years of veterinary experience