Calm Creates Confidence
HPHH Participant, Alice, with kitten Custard
It was a big day at Ten Lives Cat Centre—both Alice (HPHH participant) and kitten Custard were experiencing their very first session in the kitten room.
Custard was understandably overwhelmed in the new environment which came with new smells, sights, textures and others (both people and fellow kittens). Frightened and unsure, she showed defensive behaviours toward the other kittens and kept her distance from the group of participants. Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) Program Trainer, Juliana took the opportunity to explain this interaction to participants, teaching them about the intricacies of kitten and cat body language, communication and behaviour. She shared how sitting back and observing, allows us to then respond appropriately with what any animal might need in the moment.
Despite being her first HPHH session, Alice showed a calmness from the start. She sat quietly, spoke in a soft, steady voice, and offered gentle reassurance towards Custard without pushing for interaction.
Even through her fear, Custard’s curiosity peeked through. She watched Alice gently jingling the wand toy closely, clearly wanting to play but unsure if it was safe.
HPHH Participant, Alice, with kitten Custard
For nearly half an hour, Alice patiently used the wand to positively redirect Custard’s attention. In turn, Alice was showing Custard gentle encouragement. She didn’t rush the process, give up or show disappointment, she simply allowed Custard to move at her own pace.
After some time, Custard relaxed. Then within an instant, she bounded with energy to play and engage with Alice.
The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Shortly after, a potential adopter arrived, having seen Custard’s photo online. Instead of meeting a frightened, dysregulated kitten, they met one who was calm, curious and showing her playful, adoptable self.
This moment speaks to the power of steady presence. On her very first day, Alice demonstrated patience, empathy and quiet leadership—creating the conditions for Custard to feel safe enough to shine and lead to the best possible outcome.
Well done, Alice. And good luck, Custard. 🐾