1. Let the Timid Cat Get Used to the Cat Carrier

　　It’s inevitable for owners to bring their cats along when going out, such as for annual check-ups and vaccinations. Purchasing a cat carrier or airline crate is very necessary. Helping a timid cat trust that it is safe and willing to stay inside is the key to building confidence.

　　First, leave the carrier door open and place it in a quiet corner, lining it with an unwashed item of your clothing, such as a T-shirt or shirt. Your scent is the best comfort for the cat.

　　Don’t force the cat to pay attention to this new thing. Put some of its favorite food in front of the carrier and let things happen naturally. Rest assured, whether out of curiosity or caution, cats love to explore new things.

　　Once the cat comfortably eats in front of the carrier, gradually move the food inside the carrier. If the cat enters the carrier, don’t disturb it or suddenly close the door. A timid cat that has been tricked once will never step inside again. This training should be guided by the cat’s feelings, allowing free access in and out of the carrier. Rushing will undermine the confidence just built.

　　One day, the cat will treat this place with tasty food as its territory, feel safe, or even sleep inside. The first step is successfully completed!

　　2. Take It Outside for a Walk

　　With a carrier that the cat likes and that ensures safety, you can take the cat out to see the crowds outside. This is a process requiring time and patience: for the first time leaving home, just stay around the door. Don’t expose the cat to too many people, and don’t visit the vet yet, as that would associate the journey’s tension and fear with the carrier, causing resistance. This psychological preparation is somewhat lengthy, but once the cat adapts, it will be much happier. Stay persistent!

　　3. Introduce It to the Owner’s Friends

　　When guests come home, never force a timid cat to come greet them, but gradual contact with strangers is important. When you bring the cat out, guests should remain quiet and avoid sudden large movements. The owner should softly soothe the kitten. If it struggles, let it go and don’t hold it firmly. After a few such experiences, it will adapt. Once it can tolerate strangers nearby, see if anyone can gently pet or hold it; movements must be soft, and if it resists, stop immediately. Punishment has no effect in this training. If the cat stays near people longer, offer tasty treats as rewards, letting it feel accomplishment and build confidence in front of strangers.

　　4. Play Games with Strangers

　　After the above training, if your kitten allows strangers nearby, try having your friends play games that interest the cat. Popular toys like dangling mice or feather toys are good choices. This interactive play quickly bridges the relationship between strangers and the cat, and they might soon become friends.

　　5. Strengthen and Consolidate Confidence

　　If your timid kitty one day voluntarily approaches your friends, even just sniffing from a distance, you should reward it. To maintain a good feeling, allowing it to taste sweet rewards each time will help the cat associate closeness with people as a happy thing, gradually relieving pressure. Patience, persistence, and consistent attitude are the keys to training success. (Source：PetsZone)