The little feral, Mittens, is getting SO much braver around me

[Siwsan]

I just took out their breakfast and while Scooter still 'scoots' away (but not as far) Mittens stands and waits for me to set down the bowl. Then when I come back by, after giving Skittish her food, Scooter backs off but Mittens just keeps on eating.

Maybe it's time to start brainstorming on catching Mittens for the old TNR. We might be able to just grab her, wearing leather gloves, of course, and put her into a carrier. And, of course, I might be getting WAY ahead of myself but the vibe coming off that kitten is so

[captain queeg]

1. The ex took in a feral cat

She’s moved into my sons bedroom. I never used to see her but the last couple times I was there she came out to check me out. Little by little. I’m sure she appreciates having a safe home and regular food. I think she’ll ultimately fit in over there. The main cat still controls the downstairs, kitchen, etc, but he’s nice and I’m sure they’ll end up getting along.

[niyad]

2. Aw, so glad to know that the female are till doing okay. I am guessing that before

too long, your soft and gentle approach and patience will let you pick Mittens up.

[Fla Dem]

3. Hope you can get her before she start brewing another kindle of kittens.

If not, you'll be a nursery mom again.

[wnylib]

4. Might need to wait until Mittens lets

you touch him/her a few times to make it go smoothly. If it doesn't go well, and Mittens slips loose, you won't be able to get close enough again.

[Siwsan]

5. That's a good idea

I almost could have petted Mittens tonight. I guess hunger overcomes fear.

[wnylib]

6. Feral cats are so skittish about being touched,

even when they know you well enough to come around regularly for food. Do you think you could lure her into a carrier with food? Or get her to start taking food from your hand? Establishing some close physical contact for while first might make it easier to capture her.

Mittens is female, right? Must be almost old enough to come in heat.

[malaise]

7. What we did over time was buy a small broom just for them

and stroke them with the bristles - over time they liked it and eventually allowed me to stroke them with my hand. Eventually they'd come for food and gently rub themselves against my ankles. Now they allow me to stroke them with my hand.
They are still feral cats though - the slightest noise and they run into the yard faster than Bolt.