What Are Cats Afraid Of? How to Approach a Feline’s Most Common Fears

Feline behaviours can often seem like a mystery. A cat jumping at the sight of a cucumber, or trying to fit into a too-small box can seem funny and strange to us humans! One key aspect many would like to learn about cats is what they’re afraid of and why. Because of their fascinating evolution, kitties are naturally cautious animals. Some stimuli can trigger their natural survival instincts and cause Mr Whiskers to react out of fear. Below, Cat in a Flat dives into what cats are afraid of and what you can do to help curb your fur friend’s fear. 

Why is my cat afraid?

Why is my cat afraid? There are many factors that play into why your cat is afraid or anxious. These include your fur friend’s genetics and early life experiences.  However, it’s not always possible to know Mr Whiskers’ experiences before they came into your life. Hence, it can sometimes be hard to understand what your cat is afraid of and why. 

Proper socialisation at a young age is essential for reducing your furry friend’s fear or anxiety. Kitties that have spent time around other felines, dogs, and people early on—most crucially between 2-12 weeks of age—tend to be more confident and less afraid. 

How to know if your cat is afraid

There are a few behaviours you can watch for to determine if your cat is afraid of something. Your feline’s body language and vocalisations are often some of the best ways to know when they’re afraid or anxious.

Common signs of fear in cats

• Hiding. If your cat runs and hides, this could mean they’re either shy or anxious. Never corner your feline or force them out to interact with you. Giving Mr Whiskers space to come out when they’re ready will go a long way toward building trust and helping them feel less afraid. 
• Crouching. A kitty who is feeling afraid may crouch close to the ground and try to make themselves as small as possible. 
• Flattened ears, dilated pupils, arched back, or puffing up fur. These are all physical indicators your kitty is upset or afraid. 
• Aggression. If your cat is hissing, biting, swatting, or growling, back off immediately and give them plenty of space. Cornering or trying to pet or pick up your cat will only make them more afraid.
• Yowling or excessive meowing. Excessive vocalisation or meowing in a high-pitched tone can be indicators of a fearful cat. 
• Changes in routine. If you notice changes in Mr Whiskers’ appetite, toilet usage, and grooming routine, it’s possible they’re afraid or stressed. Loss of appetite, pooping or peeing outside the litter box, or overgrooming are all signs there’s something about your kitty’s well-being that you need to address. 

What are common things cats are afraid of? 

What common things are cats afraid of? Felines can be afraid or wary of a number of different situations. Abrupt changes to their environment, unfamiliar people or animals, or even household appliances can sometimes scare our kitties. Below are some of the most common things cats can be afraid of: 

1. Loud or Sudden Noises

Our furry friends have a great sense of hearing. Not only can they hear higher or lower frequencies than humans, but their hearing is also three to four times better! Hence, it should come as no surprise that loud and sudden noises like fireworks, thunder, or slamming doors can startle Mr Whiskers. This is especially so if they’re not sure what the sound is. 

What to do: As much as possible, avoid talking too loudly or making loud noises around your cat. If your feline is afraid, speak to them in a soothing voice to help calm them. 

2. Sudden Movements

Your fur friend’s natural instincts as both predator and prey can make them afraid of sudden movements. 

What to do: Be careful about making unexpected movements around your kitty. This is especially important when meeting a cat for the first time and trying to build trust with them.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CatInAFlat – Cat Sitting (@catinaflat)

3. Unfamiliar People or Animals

Felines have a heightened sense of smell. Mr Whisker uses this to remember places and people. Hence, when a new person or animal comes it to the home this can trigger anxiety or fear. It’s important to gradually introduce new people or pets and create a positive reinforcement around the experience. 

What to do: Have guests sit on the floor with some treats so your kitty understands they’re friends and not foes. Likewise, when introducing a new kitty or baby into your family, you should do so gradually using scent first. Always make sure your kitty has safe spaces to retreat to if they’re afraid of something or don’t want to interact. 

4. Changes in Their Environment

Cats are creatures of habit and don’t adapt well to change. This is one reason why it’s always best to hire a trustworthy cat sitter to provide at-home care instead of boarding your kitty at a kennel or cattery. 

What to do: Aim to stick as much as possible to the same feeding schedule and daily routine. Avoid moving your feline’s litter box or food and water bowls (and if you do, shift them gradually by a little bit every day so your kitty has time to adjust). 

5. Strong Smells

Cats have powerful noses and can be quite sensitive to or even afraid of certain scents. Strong smells such as citrus, peppermint, eucalyptus and even some cleaning products can be off-putting to your feline. 

What to do: Keep your home cat-friendly by using neutral or odourless cleaning products. Avoid strong-scented candles, perfumes, or diffusers—especially around Mr Whiskers’ litter box, food bowls, and cat trees. 

6. Water

The majority of cats don’t like water. This is because your tiny house tiger is descended from desert catswhere water wasn’t a big concern. Wet fur can feel uncomfortable for Mr Whiskers and even make them afraid of water in general. 

What to do: Avoid spraying your cat with water and only bathe them if they’re unable to groom themselves or too dirty to do so effectively. Felines are impeccable self-groomers and can effectively keep themselves clean!

7. Hoovers and Household Appliances (ironing board)

Because of their heightened sense of hearing, our fur friends can become easily spooked by regular householder appliances. This includes hoovers, hair dryers, or even items like clothes racks and ironing boards. 

What to do: When using any household items your cat is afraid of, just make sure they always have an escape route or a safe place they can retreat to when scared. 

8. Large or Predatory Animals

Your cat’s natural instincts will certainly make them afraid of large or predatory animals. Due to the difference in size, many kitties will see large animals (like dogs) as predators—even if those animals are friendly. Many dogs have the natural instinct to chase smaller, fast-moving animals. This can make your cat afraid of them.

What to do: Take care about introducing a larger pet into your home. Don’t force your cat to interact with a dog, no matter how friendly it may be. This will only further cement your furry friend’s sense of fear. 

9. Vet Visits or car rides

Going to the vet or riding in the car can be a stressful experience for both you and your fur friend. However, this doesn’t mean you should avoid vet visits. Regular annual visits will help your feline become more accustomed to the experience of going to the vet. They may never enjoy it, but a consistent yearly routine can help ease Mr Whiskers’ anxiety. 

What to do: There are a few steps you can take to make a trip to the vet more stress-free. Spritz a calming spray like Feliway into your fur friend’s carrier and know how to safely get them inside. Play cat-friendly music during the car ride and do your best to remain calm during your visit. You fur friend can pick up on your emotions, so it helps when you stay calm too! 

Want to learn more about your feline’s fascinating behaviour? Check out the Cat in a Flat blog to learn how to spot an upset cat (and what to do) and what to do if your kitty is waking you up at night.