Help! My Rescue Cat is Skittish Around Me! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hi Dr. Paola,
I rescued my cat Midnight from an abusive home. I wonder why she is so skittish with me? I’m protecting her, and I let her do anything she wants because I love all my animals. How do I pick her up and put her in the carrier to take her to the vet? Also, she hurt herself, and she’s limping and has her little paw up when she walks. I have to wait one more week before I can take her to see a vet in person because that’s when I get paid next, so I’m wondering what I can do in the meantime? Every time I see my baby girl in pain, it makes me cry! “ – Judy
Quick Info about Midnight
Hi Judy,
First of all, thank you from the bottom of my heart for rescuing Midnight and giving her a loving, safe home. What you’re doing for her truly matters. Cats that come from abusive situations can take a long time to trust, even when they’re surrounded by kindness. It sounds like Midnight is still working through her fears, and what you’re seeing as her being “Scottish” might be her way of staying a little distant or cautious until she feels completely secure. Check this post about Rescue Cat behavior, so you can see that you are not alone.
Sadly, her past taught her that humans can’t always be trusted. The good news is that with patience and kindness, trust can bloom even in the most wounded hearts.
For her limp, I understand it’s heartbreaking to see, especially when you feel helpless. Since she’s holding her paw up, that does suggest she’s in pain, and while I understand you can’t get her to the vet just yet, you can try to make her as comfortable as possible. Encourage rest by keeping her in a quiet room, ideally without high places to jump. Avoid touching or manipulating the injured leg, and don’t give human pain medications, as many of these are toxic to cats. If she lets you, gently check if the paw looks swollen, has a wound, or feels unusually warm. But if she seems uncomfortable or stressed with handling, it’s best not to push it. If you feel unsure and need support to better assess the urgency, a quick and affordable call with one of our own online veterinarians at Pangovet can help you evaluate the situation and guide you through the next best steps, especially if the signs get worse before your appointment.
When it comes to picking her up and putting her in a carrier, the key is to help her feel safe rather than restrained. If she’s not used to being handled, try to make the carrier a cozy space by leaving it out, open, and lined with a soft towel that smells like home. You can even place some treats or catnip inside, letting her go in at her own pace. If you do need to gently place her in, use a towel to swaddle her like a soft kitty burrito, which can help prevent struggling and keep her calm. Always speak to her in a gentle, reassuring voice.
You’re doing your best, Judy, and Midnight is still just learning what is to be protected and loved. The healing path can be slow, but don’t give up.
Dr. Paola