Kitten Overcomes Fear with the Help of a Companion After Months of Living Outdoors
A timid kitten has learned to trust humans thanks to the support of another cat, following months spent outdoors and several weeks of hiding.
An animal rescuer, Nadia discovered this beautiful but frightened kitten while assisting community cats in her area.
Rescued through a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, the kitten was taken to a veterinary clinic, where he remained terrified, huddling in a corner with flattened ears and watchful eyes.
Aiming to improve his situation, Nadia reached out to help the kitten and other young cats rescued from the streets.
The kitten appeared to have been abandoned for some time, as no one came forward to claim him.
She contacted Chatons Orphelins Montreal, a local animal rescue, and they quickly agreed to assist.
At around five months old, the kitten, Bekam, remained withdrawn and avoided human interaction. Chatons Orphelins Montreal reported, “He was very fearful and withdrawn. He didn’t know that he no longer had to fend for himself to survive.”
To help Bekam feel safe, his foster mother placed him in a quiet room where he could decompress. He often hid under blankets or in a cubby bed, only peeking out occasionally.
Initially, Bekam would growl at his caretaker’s approach, but the sound of toys and the scent of treats piqued his curiosity.
Gradually, he began to venture out from his hiding spots. His foster mom used a spatula to feed him, repeating this routine until he felt secure enough to accept her gentle touch. Over time, as he took treats from her hand, his fear began to diminish.
“His foster mom was gentle and patient, using positive reinforcement daily to gain his trust. Eventually, his fear gave way to curiosity, and he came out of his shell over several weeks,” the rescue group shared.
As Bekam became more comfortable, he realized that humans meant no harm, allowing his personality to emerge.
He also bonded with another foster cat, who introduced him to toys and cat trees, shared sunbathing sessions by the window, and showered him affectionately.
“He loves it when we take the time to play with him. He enjoys playing with other kitties whenever he can,” his foster family noted. Bekam eagerly seeks friendships with other cats, often rubbing against them and following them around.
After months in foster care, Bekam has come to cherish human companionship. “His tail rises the moment we pet him, and he accepts cuddles with delight.
He enjoys being held in our arms and stays there for a long time, giving us nose kisses,” his foster family shared.
When his human companions are busy, Bekam finds creative ways to get their attention, such as stepping in front of their computers or rubbing his face against the screens. He even tries to join them at bedtime by positioning a small pillow beside theirs.
Bekam has made remarkable progress since being rescued from the streets. He now coos when he talks and has grown bolder in expressing his needs. He loves to be brushed while they watch TV and often falls asleep beside them.
Enjoying their company, Bekam has developed a taste for treats and has transformed into a little foodie who eagerly anticipates his daily snacks.
Read more Cat News.