Fixed. Definitely.

Hi Motocat. I adopted a feral tomcat, Pani (pahh-knee), a couple of
years ago. He was terrorising my two cats, spraying the house and
eating all the cat food. It's a long story but suffice to say I
decided that if you can beat 'em...now he is a happy member of the
household.

It's all about making him feel safe and relaxed - then he'll become
your friend.

I don't have any specific advice but some pointers that may be
useful...

Sound is more important than sight to cats. When you enter an area
where he is make sure you talk gently on approach so he relaxes (and
knows it's you).

Do not stare at him, this is likely to spook him. Minimal eye contact
will make him feel relaxed.

The lower you are the less threatened he'll be. Sitting on the floor
or, even better, lying (depending on the comfort of you floor of
course) on the floor makes you at his level.

Wait for him to come to you. Food is a good way to tempt him but don't
try to grab him as he'll become less trusting. Start by seeing if
he'll let you sit near him when you feed him. I used to put to cats
bowls down and just sit there and watch. If he happened to walk close
to me I'd slowly just pet him - again not trying to force it apon him.

Cats can pick up on your body language very easily. Don't try to fool
him, just gain his trust by making him feel at home, relaxed, and not
threatened. Sometimes the disinterested approach is a good way of
acheiving this.

Don't try to play with him. Many feral cats are not quite sure what
playing is all about until they are domesticated - you might end up
spooking him or working him up.

That's my 2 cents worth - best of luck with him!

Troy.

Neutered is better for sociability and for his health - and also for the
condition of your household.

--
Sarah H
Beware geeks bearing gifs
www.messybeast.com  www.shartwell.freeserve.co.uk