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Cat now scared of me
Hi!
I just spent a week in the hospital due to a foot infection. Prior to the visit “Sylvester” was affectionate, would nuzzle and groom me, and he loved to have me pet and comb him. Now he acts scared of me, will not a[[roach me. When he does approach me he is wide eyed.
How do I get him back?
Bruce
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2 Replies
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Hi Bruce, my first thought is that this may be an issue of odor. There is that characteristic “hospital” smell we all know (and love) but cats with their amazing sense of smell can pick out even many more distinctive odors out of that. I’m wondering if your cat may be reacting to something of an onslaught of foreign odors he’s not used to and may be objectionable to him. I have encountered something similar with my own cats upon coming home with one I’ve brought into my office for the day and I’ve had clients mention something similar too. When a cat has a hospital visit and comes home to housemates, the other cats will sniff them and sometimes hiss, antagonize, or avoid them. If you’ve been at the hospital for a week, some of your clothes and belongings may have similar odors.
The good news is that this should improve in a few days when you start “smelling” more like what he’s used to. It may help to wash any extra clothes and items that were at the hospital.
The other possibility may have something to do with any further care with your foot. Some medication residue animals can sense on the body. Any topical lotions or creams may also be related.
Either way, my hope is that this will resolve after several days back at home and once your foot is better on the mend.
In the meantime, you might try some catnip on your clothes or a blanket you have. Feliway spray could be another good option. You could spray your clothes, bedding, blankets, etc. and that may help keep your cat relaxed around you.
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Hi Bruce
To expand on Chris’s suggestion concerning the “hospital scent,” I recommend the following:
Collect Sylvester’s pheromones from his cheek, chin, and the base of his tail using a soft cloth or glove. You can then rub this cloth on your skin, clothes, pillow, and bedding. Alternatively, you can gently brush him and then rub the brush on your clothes.
Additionally, consider placing a small blanket in your bed, then moving it to Sylvester’s bed, or vice versa, to help intermingle your scents.
Using positive reinforcement training, along with treats, will encourage him to return to you in no time.
All the best,
Melina and my kitten Sylvester, who recently passed away.
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