Shelters are dispelling the myth that some cats “won’t love you,” saying reserved felines just need patience. Many shelter cats show affection after trust builds, like tortoiseshell Mochi, who now head-butts volunteers after warming up over months.
Behaviorists note 82% of “aloof” cats display affection within six months of adoption. Shelters offer “patient programs” with guides and trial periods to help adopters. For example, Boston’s MSPCA provides tips on reading cat cues, while San Francisco SPCA offers 30-day trials.
“It’s a language barrier, not a lack of love,” says a shelter director. Success stories include Oreo, a once-hidden tuxedo cat now greeting owners at the door. Adoptors can contact local shelters for “personality match” help.
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