change in tamed feral cat

I had tamed one of my ferals to the point that he would let me pet him for a few minutes. He has been more or less the same for about four years. But all of a sudden in the last month, he won't let me touch him and squints his eyes at me when I come into the room, then runs out. I can't think of anything that could have changed or scared him. Help!

Has anything changed about you? Physically or that could change how you smell?

It happens, most of these cats as small kittens are uncomfortable with human touch as they are were not exposed to love and pets from humans. Just ignore him- leave him be. See to his needs and let him decide to come to you. Feed him, give him fresh water, and scoop his pans daily.Other than that, pretend he doesn't exist. Take the pressure off him- we pet cats for our gratification- some strays aren't that grateful

You got two good advices above.

Another one possibilitity is if he hurts somewhere. Cats in pain or discomfort dont have the same patience as otherwise. And as they usually have too much respect for their Mum or Dad so they dont teach her / him lessons - they tend to avoid to be petted...

Other cats quite opposite do seek extra comfort when distressed - both variations exists.


But if there is no discomfort either with the cat or with your scents - I would follow Hissys sound advice.