First-time FORMER STRAY cat parent, 17M (me, not the cat), worried about ACCLIMATING / FIRST FEW DAYS. Been 12 hours since we got her indoors.
Hey, all. I thank you in anticipation, for even taking the time to read this. It's been about three weeks since I met Zelda, our 4-5 month old kitten (I believe that's a kitten's age, please correct me if I'm wrong). She used to be a stray, and in the beginning she was really shy, but over time she warmed up to us. We used to feed her outside the front door, and then we got her to come into our garage (it's like, an open garage system, PK for reference, here the norm for architecture is to have open-ish walled garages).
Three days ago some neighbourhood cats started harrassing her and eating her food and cornering her. Last night I made the call to take her in as an indoor cat. She's been REALLY ROUGHED UP and it shows in her sudden personality change--went from all bubbly to fearful.
She's been vaccinated before by yours truly, and yesterday I went out and got her litter and whatnot.
My vet told me to keep her in a small room as that'd help with litter-training (if needed). I chose a spare bathroom. Seat lid down, everything into the cupboard, and her kibble, water, house, and litterbox are there. She's recovered her playfulness somewhat I guess.
SHE MEOWS. A WHOLE LOT. THE OTHER CAT THAT HARASSED HER RESPONDS FROM OUTSIDE THE WINDOW.
I am ashamed to admit I don't have any cat toys, because, well, I was in a hurry to get her settled and safe. Please guide me as to how I should select toys, and if there are any homemade/DIY toys.
In tandem, I want to know if it's normal for cats not to eat unless their food's been interacted with. In my case Zelda only goes to the bowl if I shake it. I'm worried she won't eat otherwise.
I'm really stressing over if I'm mistreating her. I know I probably am, and I apologise for it.
Thanks once again. Means the world.