How else can we help our new kittens be less afraid?

[Scaredycathelp101]

Our 2 new rescue kittens have been with us just over 24 hours. 4 months old, up to now have lived in kennels with litter mates (were with mum for first 10 weeks). Not been handled much, only by the lady who was fostering them.

They are completely terrified. Spent all yesterday evening hiding in the cat basket. Came out during the night & have used the litter tray/eaten a little.

Since we got up this morning they have found new hiding places and won’t come out. Tried enticing with toys/treats but no joy. We have a feliway plug in, have the same food/litter as they are used to, have them confined to one room and with lots of places to hide if they don’t feel safe. They haven’t eaten or drunk anything/been to the toilet all day.

We are trying to leave them to it as much as possible but is hard with 2 kids (9,13) who are desperate to talk to/play with them. How else can we help them feel secure/less afraid of us?

I think I would keep them in one room for now. They will just vanish in the house.
I think the purring when you are nearby is a really positive sign. They're relaxing but not very brave yet.

Thought I’d post a little update to say that the kittens are still with us and eventually, with a little bit of enticement from a tasty treat, they came out of hiding.

They love to cuddle up together at the top of the cat tree and when relaxed, will happily let us stroke them, and purr like crazy while we do. They also enjoy playing with toys with the kids, but we are being careful not to overdo it as they are still a bit unsure. They are still nervous and will run away at the slightest noise but are steadily getting more confident and coming out quickly once they realise it’s ok.

One came and curled up next to me on the sofa the other night but they’ve not braved sitting on our laps yet. Hoping that will come in time.

Not all cats are lap cats, some do prefer to sit next to you. Sounds like good progress though, well done

That’s great news.. time generally works and plenty of patience…
Im Currently being pestered to stroke one of my gang- she was fully feral when she came to me ( long story of abuse, her and her sister came when they were six month old who had to be moved from terrible situ) It took nearly two years but for the past two years both her and her sister are cuddle bugs… makes it more special when they finally learn to trust.

Erm, the photos don't seem to have attached.....
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😂