Your cat is probably meowing for attention - and play could be part of it. You could try "rewarding" her for quiet. For instance when she is quiet for a minute, go pet her and say "good, quiet." After a few days of that increase the time to two minutes and keep increasing. She might learn that silence will get more attention than meowing. When she does meow don't look at her directly, don't speak to her or give her attention.



Your cat was obviously traumatized by being picked up when she was so sore. She might not ever really adapt to strangers. However you could try having a friend come over and sit in the same room with both of you - she'll probably be under a bed. Have your friend gently toss a treat towards her hiding place. If she comes out to retrieve it, be sure your friend doesn't look at the cat, but appears to be busy doing something else like reading or playing with the computer. After a few times, she may start to associate strangers with treats and be a little more relaxed around them.
-----
Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!

[ Show Entire Thread ]