Bean used to live outdoors until my my sister’s friend found her under a deck. We took her in three years ago. She had seven kittens and we kept five. She is mean to her offspring but has been getting nicer to us slowly. When we walk the dog at night, she sometimes follows us around meowing at a distance; when she catches up and we go to pet her, she runs ahead, waits, and the cycle repeats. Why is she so concerned and not letting us touch her?
I’ve got a cat (indoor only) who’s normally a lovely little guy who love pets and cuddles. The occasions he slips outside he becomes a rage monster and it often involves getting mauled to catch him and get him back inside.
Being outside their normal space can make cats anxious, anxiety makes affection unwanted. She’s concerned her idiot humans will get hurt/lost and she’s being vigilant for threats.