A feral cat is a totally different creature. It does not trust people and will take months if not a year or two to domesticate or trust the person with the can opener. While patience and compassion can work here, you must be aware that this is not just a shy cat. Sometimes they don't come around and you just share space until one of you leaves the planet. If you attempt to domesticate it too fast or it just isn't going to happen, the cat may actually attack you.  Cat bites must be treated by a doctor since the bacteria will cause a serious infection.

A feral cat should be left alone until it feels curious enough to come out (usually at night when you're asleep). When it sees you approach it will run and hide - as if you are the enemy. It may even Hiss at you when it sees you. Give it space, give it time or give it back.

Every so often give it rare roast beef (or tuna, chicken, turkey - whatever stimulaties its curiosity. Here is where you start to make comprises: if the cat won't eat it out of your hand - no matter how badly it wants it - do not give it to him.

Be sure the cat has plenty of places to hide in. Once it feels sure that it is safe it will start coming out more often. Once in a while (just to let it see what it is missing) put a piece of the roast beef (or turkey or chicken) down and step back so that the cat can get it.

No sudden moves, no loud noises. Even an older feral may start responding to a person following the above rules. If you try to surprise a feral cat by picking it from behind when it is not aware of you, you are the one who will be surprised by the cat's ferocious reaction.

I kept a feral cat in my back room (small office). I worked there alot and just ignored her. Eventually she wanted the roast beef enough to grab a piece from my hand. Another month and she would come up to the door when I entered. Another month and she stopped running from me. Another two months and I as allowed to pet her lightly. It takes time and patience.

So be sure to know the difference between Shy (will come around withing 2 weeks or so) and Feral (plan on a long, patient journey.)

 

A shy cat is lovely to watch in their development.  They are like children who first watch you from a distance, then get closer to you, then make eye contact, then take what you have to offer (treat) and then sit next to you or on your lap or even sleep on your bed.

 

KittyKind often says cats are shy when they are actually feral.  I've had to pick up a few after bad adoptions.  KittyKind never even offered to refund their money.