Need advice on rescued cat

We're currently fostering a young tortie (spayed, less than a year old), who was rescued from a hoarding situation by the local SPCA. She's a sweet girl who obviously wants to interact with humans, but doesn't quite know how. She was raised around humans, but didn't get a lot of attention because of all the other cats. She loves to play feather games and will roll around and purr when spoken to. We've been able to pet her a little on her back, which she seems to enjoy. We have noticed her tendency to swat at your hand with her paw to get your attention while playing. There's no aggression on her part, but her claws can get you! Any ideas on how to curb this behavior? We've tried ignoring it and directing her attention to a toy instead, but no luck so far. Thanks!

How long has she been with her foster family?

It sounds like it's just going to take some time and patience to teach her how to interact with people, since she really just doesn't know how.

As hard as it will be, I would suggest that when she swats immediately stop playing, get up and walk away from her. That should probably be coupled with a firm, but gentle "No swatting." When she's playing nicely, be sure to praise, praise, praise! I'm sure she'll figure it out, she just needs some direction.

Originally Posted by valanhb

How long has she been with her foster family?

It sounds like it's just going to take some time and patience to teach her how to interact with people, since she really just doesn't know how.

As hard as it will be, I would suggest that when she swats immediately stop playing, get up and walk away from her. That should probably be coupled with a firm, but gentle "No swatting." When she's playing nicely, be sure to praise, praise, praise! I'm sure she'll figure it out, she just needs some direction.

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She's been there a little over a month and seems to have become more comfortable and interactive every day. It's easy to praise her because she's so darn cute! If only I could have another one. I'll pass on your suggestions to her foster mom. Thanks!

The other thing you can try is to immediately stop moving when she swats, and either hiss at her or meow, like another kitten, or a momma cat would. It probably depends on what she's trying to do when she swats - if she's responding to play, and just doesn't know what is appropriate, then stopping all motion might help. If she's just trying to get attention, then you'd probably have to move away.