KITTEN WIRE: HOW PLAY HELPED A CAT NAMED TYRA

OAKLAND — At first, it was just a glimpse of blue eyes peeking out from a hiding place. Sightings of Tyra, who came to us shy and a bit jumpy in early March, were few and far between.

But lately, we've noticed this member of the Forgotten Kitten Project showing more of her playful side. And we think the dedicated playtime — involving other cats and plenty of different toys — has helped her gain confidence and show her energetic kitten self.

Tyra, a 9-month-old Lilac Point Siamese mix, isn't quite ready to be adopted. But we are thrilled with her progress. Check out these photos showing her evolution over the course of just a few weeks. 

First day at Cat Town out of her crate, wide eyed and doing her best to hide. Photo by Liz Lazich.

First day at Cat Town out of her crate, wide eyed and doing her best to hide. Photo by Liz Lazich.

Tucked back in the Quiet Zone. Photo by Cathy Niland.

Tucked back in the Quiet Zone. Photo by Cathy Niland.

She ventured outside the Quiet Zone and into the Tribune Tower in the main room, but still hunkered down. Photo by Cathy Niland.

She ventured outside the Quiet Zone and into the Tribune Tower in the main room, but still hunkered down. Photo by Cathy Niland.

Watching other cats play and thinking about joining in. Photo by Scott Russell.

Watching other cats play and thinking about joining in. Photo by Scott Russell.

Beginning to engage in play from a safe spot. Photo by Scott Russell.

Beginning to engage in play from a safe spot. Photo by Scott Russell.

Playing out in the open with a confidence boost from the other cats. Photo by Laura Blangsted.

Playing out in the open with a confidence boost from the other cats. Photo by Laura Blangsted.

Now she's just showing off! Photo by Laura Blangsted.

Now she's just showing off! Photo by Laura Blangsted.

We'll be sure to keep you posted on Tyra's continued progress. In the mean time, feel free to help her socialize by visiting her and our other Cat Zone cats here at 2869 Broadway in Oakland.

Cat Town is working to help other rescues across the country replicate our work with Forgotten Kittens thanks to a generous grant from Maddie’s Fund. First visit to the Cat Town blog? Learn more about our Forgotten Kitten Project in our regular Kitten Wire dispatch.

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