A shy cat has been through experiences that have left her/him feeling nervous and uprooted from a familiar environment. It will probably begin responding to a new home in about a week or two. Just leave the cat alone for awhile so that it can explore its new surroundings. They’ll walk around and sniff everything and try to find a favorite spot to become “invisible” in.

A feral cat is a totally different creature. It does not trust people and will take months if not a year or two to domesticate or trust the person with the can opener. While patience and compassion can work here, you must be aware that this is not just a shy cat. Sometimes they don’t come around and you just share space until one of you leaves the planet.

A feral cat should be left alone until it feels curious enough to come out (usually at night when you’re asleep). When it sees you approach it will run and hide - as if you are the enemy. It may even Hiss at you when it sees you. Give it space, give it time.

Every so often give it rare roast beef (or tuna, chicken, turkey - whatever stimulaties its curiosity. Here is where you start to make comprises: if the cat won’t eat it out of your hand - no matter how badly it wants it - do not give it to him.

Be sure the cat has plenty of places to hide in. Once it feels sure that it is safe it will start coming out more often. Once in a while (just to let it see what it is missing) put a piece of the roast beef (or turkey or chicken) down and step back so that the cat can get it.

No sudden moves, no loud noises. Even an older feral may start responding to a person following the above rules.

I kept a feral cat in my back room (small office). I worked there alot and just ignored her. Eventually she wanted the roast beef enough to grab a piece from my hand. Another month and she would come up to the door when I entered. Another month and she stopped running from me. Another two months and I as allowed to pet her lightly. It takes time and patience.

So be sure to know the difference between Shy (will come around withing 2 weeks or so) and Feral (plan on a long, patient journey.)