Florida newbie!

[FindingMyFamiliar]

Hi! I've been researching and dreaming of a Savannah since I saw them featured on Animal Planet's "Too Cute" show! I'm picking up my first on Tuesday! She is a snow colored, F5. She is about 16 weeks old. The breeder has warned that she is very skittish. I am home during the day, so I hope that I can work with her and get her to come around.
I would like to buy a walking jacket for her. They grow quickly and I don't know if buying a new one is a good idea. There must be a bunch of them around here that have been grown out of, yes? I'd love to buy one from you if you have one you don't need!
I've been lurking for about a year I think? Lots of good info here! I can't wait to be initiated as one of you on Tuesday!

 

[Sue]

Where in Fl. Are you? I also have an F5. I am in sw Fl. Holly was born on Christmas Day , so she is also 16 weeks. Welcome to the forum. My first Savannah, did not like going outside on a leash and harness or jacket. She preferred hanging out by the pool inside the pool cage. We have not let Holly out by the pool yet. I am sure she will figure it out soon enough. Sue

 

[FindingMyFamiliar]

Thank you! I'm near Daytona Beach. My kitten was born on Dec. 19. I have not even met her yet, I'm trying to get as prepared as I can. I am very concerned that she will never get over her skittishness and fear. I would be devastated if she did not warm up, like, ever!

 

[WitchyWoman]

Welcome to the forum. If the breeder has told you that your SV is skittish, then you should be prepared to do some work requiring a fair amount of patience to get her acclimated to her new home. If she is skittish at the breeders, she may not change. But if she is skittish because she does not like the environment at the breeders -- there may be too many cats or too much activity -- there's a chance she'll change.

If you haven't already read the attachment to the first post here http://www.savannahcatchat.com/thre...ed-acclimating-your-new-sv-to-your-home.1959/ I highly encourage you to do so.

Having a room prepared for her where she is isolated from the rest of your house/apartment and has places to climb and hide will be an important first step.

 

[FindingMyFamiliar]

Thanks! It is my understanding that there are many other cats in the breeder's home. I hope she'll come around!


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[Patti]

Congratulations on your new baby! I would encourage you to accept the fact that your Savannah may never change - putting expectations on her will only create stress for both of you. It will be imperative that you exercise patience and don't try to force anything on her. She will need time to learn that she can trust you. I'm sure if you have been reading the forum you have seen some of the stories of people whose Savannahs took years to become trusting, but it can happen. In fact, it could happen quickly - I have seen kittens blossom once they have settled in to their new homes, I just don't want you to be disappointed if it doesn't. I hope you will keep us posted on your progress - good luck!