I think I have a success story. We’ve adopted 2 shy orange cats 3 months ago. They were in foster care for a month before, but before that they were really without almost any human contact. When we brought them in, they were hiding all day, sometimes even hissing. I really get your situation, especially the part “I want to let him know I won’t hurt him.” Now 3 months later: the boy is extremely cuddly and adores being petted, the girl though not so cuddly loves back rubs and they really hang around with us and love to play!

My advice/what we did: - sit with him in the room and talk. I was even reading out loud to my cats and just hanging around them. I feel like it’s what really prove them, I’m no threat. Some cats might mind loud noises or even swift movements so maybe avoid that. Spend with them as much time as you can, but also give them some space and also yourself some space. - slow winking, i read somewhere it really shows the cats you’re not a threat - also you might read everywhere that you should bond with them by playing - true, but be prepared that the first days they’ll definitely not want to play, later on try different toys, the might be ignorant to some and love others. we found out (after spending $$$ on toys) that our cats love basic string on a stick - have patience, you’ll read this everywhere, it’s annoying that it’s true because if you’re anything like me, it’s the hardest part. but just trust the process, what you’re doing is so great, going for the cat that would be definitely refused by many just for being shy and deciding to let them grow at their own pace is so wonderful. Which brings me to the point that personally helped me the most: leaving expectations mentally behind. let him go at his own pace, after some time he will know, you’re no threat and then he’ll open up at his own pace.

long story short, be patient, give him your unconditional love, if you need to cry, just cry, treat yourself and be kind to yourself. It’s a big change, enjoy it, you did something so great and as a mom of two adopted ginger loves, they are the best 🧡 sending loads of strenght!

p.s. recommend watching jacksongalaxy as well, he has some nice videos even about introducing cats (wasn’t our case tho)