What are the signs of fear? When frightened, some cats may hide, try to appear smaller, pull their ears back and be immobile. Other cats may show signs of agitation or aggression, such as dilated pupils, arched back, pilo-erection (hair standing on end), and hissing.
Lack of exposure.
Shy cats may have lacked exposure to different people when they were kittens, especially between the ages of 2 to 7 weeks. Cats who have been exposed to different types of people may still feel afraid of certain kinds of people they haven't come across often, such as children.
When you take on a cat or kitten it may be quiet and wary for the first few days or even the first few weeks until it gets used to you and its new environment. However, some cats remain very fearful despite a gentle welcome and time to settle in.
Depending on their upbringing, it may take days, weeks, or months for a newly-befriended cat to trust you. Bonding with cats can occur naturally through feeding and daily interactions, but some cats need a little extra attention and time to feel safe. And keep an open mind about how cats might show trust.
Some cats will want to come to you for comfort when they are afraid, while others will want to hide or be left alone. It's always best to respect your cat's choice and don't force them to come to you if they're scared - this could actually make them feel more afraid. Close the curtains and try playing music or the TV.
“If you have visitors and the cat isn't being social, ignoring him is the best idea—don't force him to come say hello,” says Larocco-Skeehan. “Make sure your cat has a safe place to escape to—set up a room with food, water, a comfy spot to rest and a litter box.”
Many of these cats, once their adrenaline levels have subsided, will work their way back home, often showing up the next day or a few days later. But many of these cats, especially those with skittish temperaments, will be so panicked by the experience that they will hide in fear and will be too afraid to return home.
Previous scientific research has shown that cats don't just purr when they're happy, but also when they're distressed or afraid. There is also a theory that purring is a defence mechanism, and a way for cats to keep calm in stressful situations, as the vibrations produced can help to keep cats relaxed.
The most common places for cats to hide are in closets, under beds, in basements, and in laundry rooms. Under and behind large objects are favorite spots too. Cats seem to go to the farthest point from scary sounds, so keep that in mind.
It helps to play soft music and use calming scents to make the environment more comforting to the fearful cat. Talk softly and move slowly around your cat. Avoid staring at your cat or approaching them directly because this can seem threatening to a cat.
slow, rhythmic petting and gentle movements to build trust. Encourage play using small, quiet toys that twitch or make small movements around objects. attention before petting again. Cat trees and other hiding places should always be a place where the cat can retreat when uncomfortable.
A very scared cat will tend to arch their back to make themselves look bigger and more intimidating. tense tail. If your cat is arching their back because they're extremely scared, the likelihood is their tail will be upright and tense too. big fur and whiskers.
As a general rule, cats are sensitive when it comes to smells, but there are a few scents they hate that might just surprise you. They can't stand citrus and as much as you might love the smell of fresh herbs, cats hate rosemary and thyme. Banana and mustard are a big no-no too, as well as lavender and eucalyptus.
An angry cat will be rigid, with tail held out stiff and straight or curled around and under their body. They will act very differently from usual – they could be silent, hissing, spitting or growling.
Growling, hissing or spitting indicates a cat who is annoyed, frightened, angry or aggressive. Leave this cat alone. A yowl or howl (they sound like loud, drawn-out meows) tells you your cat is in some kind of distress—stuck in a closet, looking for you or in pain. Find your cat if they're making this noise.
The Anxious Meow
A cat can also meow because they are scared, anxious, or in pain. If they are fearful of a person or other animal, they may let out repeated meows to indicate that they are in a state of stress. One common source of stress for cats is when we put them in the carrier to go to see the vet.
If you find a stray cat hanging around your house, or trying to gain access inside, it is more than likely looking for a safe haven with food, water, and a little bit of TLC.
Stress. Stress is another common reason why cats run away. Cats are creatures of habit – they don't like changes in the household or to their routine.
If you leave the house for a quick errand or two, it's unlikely your cat will even notice that you're not home. A quick pet and a snuggle can remind your cat that despite your absence, you've got kitty on the brain!
Cats like peace and quiet. Household conveniences, like vacuum cleaners, can easily disrupttheir nap time.