Advice to a friend on handling a shy cat

Handling shy cats.

(hopefully not from breeders - also often Maine Coons
are rescues or shelters offer rescued cats as Maine Coons,
and regardless of whether they really are or not, this is
my response to a friend asking advice on a very shy new cat):

I can tell you my experience with feral cats and a very shy indoor cat - you have the right idea on this as far as putting the cat in it's own room and in a place it feels it can defend itself

Leaving food and water and talking to the cat calmly and in a very friendly tone of voice is something to do also

Don't put yourself in a position where you have to do something to the cat or get mad for it's standoffishness or unfriendliness. Sometimes with feral cats it takes a month or more to get to be able to pet them.

With indoor cats it should be much quicker, but can still take a week or two.

Any clothing or something that smells of its previous owner might be a good bedding.

If the cat is NOT angry and not inclined to strike out just because you are around - then I would advise all approaches be done while sitting.
Food should be used to reward interest.

Lying down and sleeping in the room on the floor with the cat around can also put the cat at ease. When awake and looking at the cat never take an aggressive posture or stare, always slowly blink or close your eyes a bit. You can lay on your back or (we call it here in our house - flop) to show submission and that you are not a threat.

Always tell the cat what you are doing and why. When you can pet it, pet it above its eyes to calm it down. Some cats also at that stage like light brushing, some don't.

You look like a 40 ton 60 foot tall monster to a scaredy cat, so keep your profile low and always talk gently and kindly. Once it is used to you get a see through room divider or barrier, so it can see and smell the other cats (can be found at home depot cheaper than pet food stores)

Use tuna or any food it likes for treats

Don't try to force the issue. It will take a bit or a bit longer if you do. (I once had a cat protest the addition of another cat by hiding under the bed for a month and be snarly constantly for two - but she got over it, the 5 year old has a whole new environment after being used to something else, so be patient)