Winning over a runt.

I really don't know the true definition of "runt". I have a 7 week old litter of 7. The smallest kitten (Kenny) is very timid, easliy frightened, and less co-ordinated than the rest. He will finally let me pet him when he's sleepy, but he does not want to be held or picked up. I know most kittens don't like those things, but he runs and hides after he is picked up, whereas the others just want to get down and play. I don't know if handling more will help him or make it worse. I'm trying to follow my instincs with him and take it slow, but I just wonder if I should be doing more than just stroking him when he lets me. Any suggestions on how to get this kitty to be loveable? He needs a forever home soon.

You can try just sitting near by and reading aloud and see if he comes to you.

Also, you could social roll in his general direction (lie down on the floor on your side with your tummy area not covered by arms or legs) mine love to cuddle like this.

He probably sees being picked up as a threat to move him somewhere he may not want to go (and then can't find his way back!). I'd also see the vet to be sure his lack of coordination, etc. is normal and not indicative of any problems - he may be the runt for a reason.

Originally Posted by Larke

He probably sees being picked up as a threat to move him somewhere he may not want to go (and then can't find his way back!). I'd also see the vet to be sure his lack of coordination, etc. is normal and not indicative of any problems - he may be the runt for a reason.

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He has never been handled outside of his room exept once when I tried to bond with him away from his littermates - but momcat was in the vicinity when I did that. His lack of coordination isn't too bad, he just acts more like a 5 week old that a 7 week old. He's been to the vet. I think he is a special kitty who is going to need a special human to be patient and very gentle with him if he is ever to be a "people" cat. Unfortunately, the only person I would trust with the task of raising him is ME. But that would make 7 cats for us. Seriously, is 7 cats in a home overcrowding?

Originally Posted by pxxiegirl

is 7 cats in a home overcrowding?

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Depends on how much space you have and how much attention you can give him on a regular basis.