Know from an expert. Shah also shares possible reasons why your cat might be upset with you. "Disrespecting their personal boundaries, trying to play or cuddle with them when they're not consenting are some common reasons that cats may learn to dislike your presence.
Pay attention to signs of irritation and give the cat a break if you observe them. Signs include: tail swishing, a cranky meow, or a quick head turn to stare at your hand. Let them sit next to you without pets, or try playing with them with an interactive toy as an alternative to cuddles.
This means that washing machines, shouting, music and phones – not to mention fireworks and family parties – are all things cats hate. Being respectful of a cat's sensitive ears may help minimize the problem, but cats are also very good at escaping the loud noise and finding somewhere quiet.
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.
The good news is, despite their reputations for being antisocial, cats love bonding and they do forgive and forget. So, if you're at a loss as to how you're going to rebuild trust and affection with your cat, don't fret.
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.
Cats can be shy around strangers for several reasons. A common reason is lack of experience with visitors when they were kittens. If cats were not introduced to different people during their socialization period (2 to 7 weeks old), they might be more apprehensive around strangers as adults.
Unfamiliar Objects, Fruit or People
But it is a good example of cats being afraid of unfamiliar things (people, objects, fruits, etc.). Cats like to feel safe and secure in their home — if something new enters their space, that's probably going to cause some stress.
The author writes, “Although a cat may not care (as that word is generally used) about human morals, cats can and do distinguish between good and bad people, and are excellent judges of human character and emotion.
Yelling, clapping your hands, or shaking a can full of coins may halt a dog's unwanted behavior, but loud noises will only frighten your cat and teach her not to trust you. Instead of doling out punishment, consider what your cat's behavior might mean. Scratching the furniture could indicate boredom.
Your cat loves you, he just might not be comfortable with regular petting or being held. Don't worry though, there are things you can do to entice your kitty to want more love, he just needs to get to know you better. The way to do this is do what he wants, not what you want.
Loud Noises
Of all the cat fears, this one probably is the most relatable. Sudden loud noises can really startle your cat and cause them to either jump or go run and hide for a while. Things like the vacuum cleaner tend to trigger a cat's anxiety and send them to their favorite hiding spots.
A new study finds that your pup can tell — er, smell — when you've been doom-scrolling. A 2015 study found that cats use visual and auditory cues to help determine their human's emotional state.
Some cats become intimidated by the actions or demeanor of certain individuals. The energy level of a guest can have surprising effects on a cat's environment. If a guest is loud and boisterous, your cat might feel threatened by their presence.
As much as you might love your cat, sometimes they might not feel reciprocate this affection. Mieshelle Nagelschneider, founder of the Cat Behavior Clinic, noted that although your cat could never "hate" you, they could develop some fear and mistrust toward you.
Cats tend to favor one person over others even if they were well-socialized as kittens. Cats are expert communicators and gravitate towards people that they communicate well with. Look for communication cues from your cat, such as your cat approaching you in search of food or petting.
“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.”
Even the shyest cat can be a playful, loving companion given enough time and patience to adjust and trust… perhaps for the first time. Although they may not know how to show it, the shy ones DO need us and the special bond that develops can be mutually rewarding for cat and human alike.
Sleeping near you
If your kitty likes to sleep near you - or even on you - this is an indication that they have total trust in you.