Phase 1

Phase 1

Gaining the cat’s trust.

This phase focuses on signaling to this very scared cat that they are safe with you. We give the cat opportunities to safely observe you and help the cat relax using sight and sound. Then we let the cat take the lead in order to gain his trust.

The cat is in a state of fight, flight, or freeze (due to fear.) They may be hissing, lunging and swatting. They make be petrified and frozen, pressed against whatever hiding place they can find. (Note: people often misinterpret a frozen cat with a cat that’s ok with being pet, which in fact the cat is extremely stressed by touch. Other signs include flattened ears, squishing into a corner, making themselves as small as possible, pulling or running away, fast or heavy breathing.

The focus of this phase is to signal to the cat that they are in control of the situation. We use Luring and Distracting through treats and toys to encourage the cat to touch you (not vice versa) so that they can step back whenever they want. By going slowly, you progress faster.

PRE-WORK: Low Slow DJ Voice

Step 0: The Reset

Step 1: Deep Breaths & Slow Blinks

Step 2: Legs Extended