Instruction: how to understand why your cat is afraid of a certain person.

1. Recognizing Fear in Cats

1.1 Behavioral Cues

1.1.1 Body Language Signals

Cats communicate fear through distinct postural cues, ear positions, tail movements, and facial expressions. Recognizing these signals enables owners to identify the specific individual that triggers anxiety and to intervene appropriately.

Ears flattened or rotated sideways - Muscles contract to protect the ear canal; the cat avoids direct auditory input from the perceived threat.
Puffed tail or tail tucked between legs - Inflation of the tail creates a larger silhouette, while tucking signals submission; both indicate heightened stress.
Low crouch with hind legs ready to spring - Weight shifts backward, forelegs poised; the cat prepares for rapid escape.
Dilated pupils - Light‑sensitive muscles expand the aperture, allowing maximum visual intake to assess danger.
Whiskers drawn forward or flattened against the face - Forward orientation sharpens tactile detection; flattening reduces exposure to potential contact.
Slow, hesitant steps or freezing - Motion stalls as the cat gathers sensory data; freezing minimizes detection.
Vocalizations such as short, sharp hisses or growls - Acoustic warning aimed at the source of fear.

Each cue appears in combination rather than isolation. When a cat displays multiple signs simultaneously in the presence of a particular person, the likelihood of fear toward that individual increases dramatically. Observing the pattern, timing, and intensity of these behaviors provides a reliable diagnostic framework for assessing feline apprehension.

1.1.2 Vocalizations

Cats communicate fear through a narrow range of sounds that become especially noticeable when a particular individual triggers anxiety. Recognizing these vocal cues allows owners to pinpoint the source of distress and adjust interactions accordingly.

A fearful cat may emit:

Hissing - a sharp, sustained exhale accompanied by an open mouth. The sound is often preceded by flattened ears and an arched back, indicating immediate threat perception.
Growling - low, rumbling tones that emerge when the animal feels trapped or challenged. This vocalization usually coincides with a stiff tail and pinned hindquarters.
Yowling - prolonged, high‑pitched cries that lack the pleading quality of a typical meow. When directed at a specific person, yowling signals prolonged discomfort or a desire to escape the vicinity.
Short, staccated meows - rapid, clipped sounds without the usual greeting tone. These are often used to demand space rather than solicit attention.
Chirping or chattering - rapid, stuttered noises produced when the cat watches the feared individual from a safe distance. The behavior reflects heightened arousal and frustration.

Interpreting these sounds requires correlating them with observable body language. For instance, a hiss paired with a puffed tail confirms acute fear, whereas a low growl combined with a crouched posture suggests a more sustained unease. If the same vocal patterns recur exclusively in the presence of one person, the cat has likely formed a negative association with that individual.

Practical steps for owners:

Record the cat’s vocal response each time the person approaches. Note the type of sound, duration, and accompanying posture.
Reduce direct eye contact and sudden movements when the person is near, as these amplify the cat’s alarm signals.
Allow the cat to retreat to a safe zone while the person remains still and silent, giving the animal a chance to observe without pressure.
Gradually re‑introduce neutral interactions-slow hand extensions, gentle speech-while monitoring for any reduction in fear‑related vocalizations.

Consistent observation of vocal patterns, paired with controlled exposure, enables owners to dismantle the fear link and foster a calmer environment for the cat.

1.2 Physical Signs

When a cat reacts fearfully toward a specific individual, observable bodily cues reveal the underlying emotion. Recognizing these signals allows owners to assess the severity of the cat’s anxiety and to adjust interactions accordingly.

Ears flattened against the head, often turning sideways or backward.
Pupils markedly dilated, sometimes appearing as black circles.
Body lowered with a crouched stance, weight shifted rearward.
Tail tucked tightly against the abdomen or flicking rapidly.
Back arched, fur standing on end, creating a “Halloween” silhouette.
Whiskers pressed forward, forming a tight V shape.
Trembling or shivering, especially when the person approaches.
Avoidance of direct eye contact, frequent glances away or sideways.

Multiple signs occurring simultaneously indicate heightened fear. Isolated cues may suggest mild discomfort that could subside with gradual exposure. Consistent monitoring across several visits distinguishes temporary stress from entrenched aversion.

If physical indicators persist, limit the person’s proximity, encourage calm entry by using treats, and allow the cat to retreat to a safe zone. Documenting each encounter provides data for evaluating progress and for informing veterinary or behavioral consultation when necessary.

2. Identifying the Triggering Person

2.1 Observation Techniques

2.1.1 Controlled Introductions

As a feline behavior specialist, I emphasize that a structured exposure protocol is essential when a cat shows apprehension toward an individual. The method, known as controlled introductions, isolates variables, records reactions, and builds tolerance without overwhelming the animal.

Begin with the person remaining outside the cat’s safe zone; allow the cat to observe from a distance of at least five feet. No direct eye contact is permitted.
Reward the cat with a preferred treat each time it glances at the person without displaying stress signals such as flattened ears, tail twitching, or vocalization.
Reduce the distance incrementally, maintaining the reward‑response pattern. Each step should last long enough for the cat to remain calm for several minutes before proceeding.
Introduce brief, calm vocalizations from the person while the cat is engaged in a self‑comforting activity, such as grooming. Continue to pair these sounds with treats.
Conclude the session with the person exiting the room, allowing the cat to retreat to its sanctuary. Record the duration of calm behavior and any residual signs of fear.

During each phase, observe body language meticulously. Persistent avoidance, hissing, or aggressive swipes indicate that the distance reduction is too rapid; pause and repeat the previous successful step. Consistency across multiple sessions reinforces positive associations and diminishes the cat’s fear response.

When the cat tolerates the person’s presence at close range without stress markers, transition to brief, supervised physical contact. Maintain the reward schedule and monitor for regression. Successful completion of these stages demonstrates that the cat’s anxiety has been mitigated through a deliberate, evidence‑based introduction process.

2.1.2 Environmental Analysis

Understanding a cat’s aversion to a particular individual requires a systematic review of the surrounding environment. The process, known as environmental analysis, isolates external variables that can trigger anxiety or defensive behavior in felines.

Key elements to examine:

Odor profile - Identify scents associated with the person (perfume, tobacco, cleaning agents). Cats possess a highly sensitive olfactory system; unfamiliar or strong odors often provoke avoidance.
Auditory cues - Record the tone, volume, and pitch of the person’s voice. Sudden changes, high frequencies, or harsh speech patterns can be perceived as threatening.
Body posture and movement - Observe the individual’s stance, speed of approach, and gestures. Rapid motions or looming postures increase perceived risk for a cat.
Historical interactions - Document any prior encounters between the cat and the person, noting instances of rough handling, accidental injury, or forced confinement.
Spatial configuration - Assess the layout of rooms, escape routes, and safe zones. Limited access to hiding places may intensify stress when the person is present.
Ambient conditions - Measure lighting, temperature, and background noise levels during the person’s visits. Extreme brightness or loud background sounds can exacerbate fear responses.

For each factor, gather objective data: scent samples, audio recordings, video of body language, incident logs, floor‑plan sketches, and environmental measurements. Compare readings from sessions with the person present to baseline observations when the individual is absent. Significant deviations indicate which environmental cues are most influential.

After pinpointing the dominant triggers, adjust the setting accordingly. Replace strong fragrances with neutral cleaners, encourage the person to speak softly, teach deliberate, slow movements, provide accessible shelters, and maintain consistent lighting. Continuous monitoring confirms whether modifications reduce the cat’s avoidance behavior, confirming the causal link between environmental stimuli and fear.

2.2 Pattern Recognition

Understanding feline fear requires systematic observation of recurring cues. Pattern recognition allows you to differentiate between isolated incidents and consistent triggers that a particular person evokes in your cat. By cataloguing the cat’s reactions-body posture, vocalizations, and movement-you can map the stimulus-response relationship with precision.

Key steps for reliable identification:

Record the exact moments when the cat displays anxiety (e.g., ears flattened, tail twitching, hissing). Note the presence of the specific individual, the environment, and any ancillary factors such as noises or scents.
Compare entries across multiple days to detect repetition. Consistent alignment of the person’s arrival with the cat’s stress signals indicates a learned association.
Isolate variables by observing the cat’s behavior with other people under identical conditions. Absence of similar reactions confirms the person as the primary trigger.

When patterns emerge, they reveal the underlying cause-often a prior negative encounter, unfamiliar body language, or a scent linked to trauma. Recognizing these patterns equips you to modify the interaction, gradually desensitize the cat, and restore confidence.

3. Potential Reasons for Fear

3.1 Past Negative Experiences

3.1.1 Loud Noises or Sudden Movements

Understanding a cat’s aversion to a specific individual often begins with observing the environment in which the interaction occurs. Loud noises and abrupt movements are common triggers that can condition a cat to associate a person with threat. When a person raises their voice, slams doors, or makes sudden gestures, the cat’s auditory and visual systems register the stimulus as danger, prompting a defensive response.

Typical signs that a cat reacts to such stimuli include flattened ears, dilated pupils, a low‑frequency growl, or a rapid retreat to a safe perch. The animal may also hiss when the person approaches, freeze in place, or display a stiff, tense body posture. These behaviors indicate heightened arousal and a perceived need to protect itself.

To determine whether loud sounds or swift motions are the root cause, follow these steps:

Record the cat’s reactions during each encounter with the person, noting the volume of speech, any sudden gestures, and the cat’s immediate response.
Replicate the situation in a controlled setting: ask the individual to speak softly and move deliberately while the cat is observed from a distance.
Compare the cat’s behavior under calm versus abrupt conditions. A marked reduction in fear responses when the person adopts a quiet, slow demeanor confirms the trigger.

If the evidence points to noise and movement as the primary factor, advise the person to modify their behavior. Speak in a gentle tone, avoid sudden hand motions, and approach the cat from the side rather than head‑on. Providing the cat with a high perch or a concealed hiding spot during initial interactions can further reduce stress.

Consistent, predictable conduct gradually reshapes the cat’s perception, allowing it to reassess the individual as non‑threatening. Over time, the animal may display curiosity or relaxed body language, indicating that the previous fear response has diminished.

3.1.2 Unpleasant Interactions

Cats develop fear when a person repeatedly engages in behaviors that trigger stress. The following patterns are most commonly linked to anxiety in felines:

Sudden, loud movements such as slamming doors, dropping objects, or gesturing abruptly.
Direct eye contact combined with a raised voice, which cats interpret as aggression.
Unintentional physical contact, for example, stepping on a tail or brushing against the cat with clothing that has a strong scent.
Inconsistent handling, where a person alternates between gentle petting and rough grabbing.
Use of punitive measures, including scolding, spraying water, or applying a deterrent spray near the cat.

Each of these interactions creates a negative association stored in the animal’s memory. When the cat encounters the same individual, it anticipates the unpleasant outcome and reacts with avoidance, hissing, or retreat. Recognizing the specific trigger allows owners to modify their behavior, reduce the cat’s stress, and gradually rebuild trust.

3.2 Person's Demeanor and Actions

3.2.1 Intimidating Presence

Cats respond to subtle cues that signal threat. An individual who appears dominant or unpredictable can trigger an intimidating presence, causing the animal to retreat or hide. The following factors commonly contribute to this perception:

Posture: Standing tall, leaning forward, or occupying the cat’s personal space increases perceived dominance.
Vocal tone: Loud, abrupt, or high‑pitched speech is interpreted as aggressive.
Eye contact: Direct, steady gaze can be read as confrontation.
Movement speed: Rapid gestures or sudden approaches startle the feline nervous system.
Physical size: Larger body mass or broad shoulders amplify the sense of pressure.

When these elements converge, the cat registers a risk and may display avoidance behaviors such as crouching, tail tucking, or seeking refuge. To reduce intimidation, the person should adopt a relaxed stance, speak softly, avert direct stare, move slowly, and respect the cat’s boundaries. Consistent gentle interaction gradually reshapes the cat’s association, allowing it to view the individual as non‑threatening rather than fearful.

3.2.2 Unfamiliar Scents or Sounds

Cats rely heavily on olfactory and auditory cues to assess safety. When a person carries an unfamiliar scent-such as a strong perfume, residual animal odor, or remnants of chemicals-the cat’s vomeronasal organ detects the anomaly and may interpret it as a potential threat. Similarly, unexpected sounds, including high‑frequency voices, sudden clapping, or background noise from electronic devices, can trigger a heightened startle response.

The following indicators suggest that a cat’s fear stems from unfamiliar odors or noises:

Ears flattened, tail tucked, or rapid retreat upon the person’s approach.
Vocalizations limited to short hisses or low growls rather than prolonged meowing.
Avoidance of areas where the person has been, such as the sofa or doorway.
Increased grooming or pawing at the floor, behaviors linked to stress reduction.

To evaluate the source, observe the person’s routine and environment. Note any recent changes: new cleaning products, scented candles, pet shampoo, or outdoor activities that may leave lingering smells on clothing. Assess auditory factors: loud music, speech in a high register, or devices emitting ultrasonic frequencies. Conduct a controlled exposure by allowing the cat to encounter the scent or sound without direct human presence-place a cloth bearing the odor at a distance, or play a recording of the sound at low volume. Monitor the cat’s reaction; persistent avoidance confirms the stimulus as a trigger.

Mitigation strategies include:

Washing the person’s hands and clothing with unscented, mild detergent before interacting with the cat.
Reducing or eliminating strong fragrances in the household.
Introducing the unfamiliar scent gradually, using a neutral carrier (e.g., a cotton ball) placed near the cat’s safe zone.
Lowering voice pitch and speaking calmly, avoiding sudden loud noises.
Providing a quiet, familiar retreat area where the cat can observe the person from a distance before approaching.

By systematically isolating and desensitizing the cat to unexpected smells and sounds, owners can reduce fear responses and foster a more secure relationship with the individual in question.

3.3 Cat's Personality and History

3.3.1 Early Socialization

Early socialization refers to the developmental window-approximately two to seven weeks of age-when kittens are most receptive to sensory input, handling, and interaction with humans. During this period, exposure to varied voices, body types, and movement patterns establishes a baseline of trust and reduces the likelihood of future anxiety.

If a kitten experiences limited contact with specific categories of people, such as tall individuals, deep voices, or unfamiliar scents, the neural pathways governing fear may remain under‑stimulated. Consequently, the animal may later interpret a particular person as a threat, displaying avoidance, hissing, or retreat behaviors.

Assessment of early socialization gaps involves gathering the cat’s history: breeder reports, adoption records, and observations of the cat’s reaction to strangers of differing ages, genders, and attire. Persistent wariness toward a single individual often signals a missing exposure during the critical period rather than a present‑day conflict.

Remediation focuses on controlled, positive encounters:

Begin with the feared person at a distance where the cat remains calm.
Offer high‑value treats from the person’s hand while maintaining the cat’s safe space.
Gradually decrease the distance over multiple short sessions, ensuring the cat shows no signs of stress.
Incorporate gentle vocalizations and slow movements to mirror the stimuli absent during early development.
Repeat the process daily until the cat approaches voluntarily or displays neutral behavior.

Consistent, low‑pressure exposure reshapes the cat’s perception of the individual, replacing fear with tolerance or acceptance. Success depends on patience, timing, and adherence to the kitten’s comfort thresholds.

3.3.2 Trauma or Abuse

Understanding a cat’s fear of a specific individual often begins with evaluating the possibility of previous trauma or abuse. Cats retain sensory memories; a negative encounter can create a lasting aversion that manifests as avoidance, hissing, or aggression toward the person involved.

Key indicators that fear stems from trauma include:

Sudden retreat or freezing when the person approaches.
Low‑frequency growls, hissing, or swatting directed solely at that individual.
Elevated heart rate, dilated pupils, or trembling during the encounter.
Persistent avoidance even after the person’s behavior appears benign.

To determine whether abuse is the root cause, follow these steps:

Interview all household members about any past incidents involving the cat and the person.
Observe the cat’s reactions in controlled situations, noting consistency of fear across different contexts.
Review the cat’s medical records for signs of physical injury or chronic stress, such as unexplained bruising or weight loss.
Conduct a behavioral assessment with a certified feline behaviorist to differentiate fear from territorial aggression.

If trauma is confirmed, mitigation strategies should focus on rebuilding trust:

Restrict the person’s direct contact with the cat for a minimum of two weeks.
Introduce the individual gradually through indirect exposure, such as speaking softly from another room while the cat is eating.
Pair the person’s presence with high‑value treats, ensuring the cat associates the individual with positive experiences.
Encourage the person to use slow, non‑threatening body language, avoiding direct eye contact and sudden movements.

Regular monitoring of the cat’s stress markers-body language, vocalizations, and appetite-will indicate progress. Persistent fear despite interventions may require veterinary evaluation for underlying pain or anxiety disorders that could exacerbate the response to perceived threats.

4. Addressing the Fear

4.1 Modifying the Person's Behavior

4.1.1 Gentle Approaches

When a cat displays anxiety around an individual, the first step is to observe the animal’s body language without forcing interaction. Look for flattened ears, a lowered tail, or a rapid heartbeat as indicators of stress. Recording these cues helps pinpoint the moments that trigger fear.

Gentle approaches reduce perceived threat and create a safe environment for the cat to reassess the person. Effective methods include:

Controlled distance - Allow the cat to remain at a comfortable range while the person remains still. Gradually decrease the gap only after the cat shows relaxed posture.
Soft vocalization - Speak in a low, calm tone. Consistent, gentle speech signals safety and can desensitize the cat to the person’s presence.
Slow hand movements - Encourage the person to keep hands low and move deliberately. Sudden gestures are interpreted as aggression.
Positive association - Offer treats or a favorite toy only when the person is nearby. Pairing the individual with rewarding experiences encourages a shift in perception.

Implement the steps sequentially, monitoring the cat’s reaction after each adjustment. If signs of tension persist, pause the process and extend the interval before proceeding. Consistency, patience, and respect for the cat’s limits are essential for building trust and clarifying the root of the fear.

4.1.2 Positive Reinforcement Strategies

Understanding a cat’s fear of a specific individual requires changing the animal’s emotional response through reward‑based methods. Positive reinforcement creates an association between the person and a pleasant experience, gradually reducing anxiety.

Begin by identifying a high‑value treat that reliably motivates the cat. Offer the treat only when the person is present but not directly interacting with the cat. This initial distance prevents the cat from feeling threatened while still linking the person’s presence to a rewarding outcome.

Progress to brief, controlled exposures:

Hold the treat in the person’s hand and allow the cat to approach at its own pace.
Reward the cat the moment it makes eye contact or steps within a few centimeters of the individual.
Increase the duration of proximity by a few seconds each session, maintaining consistent rewarding.

Incorporate gentle vocal cues from the person. A calm, soft voice paired with treat delivery reinforces safety signals. Over time, the cat learns that the person’s voice predicts a positive event.

Maintain a predictable schedule. Conduct short sessions (1-2 minutes) two to three times daily. Consistency prevents confusion and accelerates learning. Avoid forcing contact; the cat must initiate movement toward the person to ensure the association remains positive.

Track progress by noting the shortest distance the cat tolerates without signs of stress (flattened ears, tail flicking, vocalizations). When the cat comfortably accepts the person’s proximity, transition to brief petting sessions, rewarding each tolerant response.

Through systematic, reward‑focused exposure, the cat’s fear diminishes as the individual becomes a source of positive anticipation rather than threat.

4.2 Environmental Adjustments

4.2.1 Providing Safe Spaces

As a feline behavior specialist, I observe that a cat’s perception of safety determines its response to unfamiliar humans. When a cat shows fear toward a particular person, the first practical step is to establish environments where the animal can retreat without exposure to that individual.

Create distinct zones that meet three criteria: physical separation, predictability, and comfort. Place the zones in low‑traffic areas of the home, away from the person’s usual path. Use furniture that blocks sight lines, such as bookshelves or screens, to prevent accidental encounters. Ensure each zone contains familiar items-bed, blanket, or a piece of the owner’s clothing-to reinforce a sense of security.

Implement the following actions:

Identify multiple locations that satisfy the separation requirement; at least two options prevent the cat from feeling trapped if one becomes unavailable.
Equip each site with a soft surface, a hideaway (e.g., a covered cat bed or a cardboard box), and a small water dish; avoid placing food near the safe space to keep the area solely for refuge.
Introduce the zones gradually by allowing the cat to explore them while the feared person is absent; monitor for signs of relaxation such as slow blinking or kneading.
Reinforce usage with calm, low‑volume praise and occasional treats when the cat enters or rests in the area; keep rewards consistent to avoid creating new stressors.
Maintain the zones by cleaning them regularly and rotating items to keep the environment fresh but familiar.

Observe the cat’s behavior over several days. Frequent retreat to the designated spaces, reduced avoidance of the household, and increased willingness to approach the feared individual from a distance indicate progress. If the cat avoids the safe zones, reassess placement, adjust barriers, or consider adding additional hideouts.

Providing reliable safe spaces does not eliminate the underlying fear but creates a controllable environment that allows the cat to manage stress while exposure to the specific person is gradually moderated.

4.2.2 Reducing Stressors

Understanding a cat’s fear of a particular individual begins with minimizing environmental and emotional triggers that amplify anxiety. Identify sources of tension-loud voices, sudden movements, unfamiliar scents, and cluttered spaces-and systematically eliminate or soften them. Consistent, calm interactions and a predictable setting reduce the cat’s physiological arousal, allowing clearer observation of the specific person‑related cue.

Remove abrupt noises: keep conversations at a moderate volume, avoid slamming doors, and mute electronic alerts that may startle the animal.
Simplify the area: clear excess furniture and toys from the cat’s preferred zones to prevent visual chaos.
Control scent exposure: wash hands before handling the cat, use unscented cleaning products, and limit the use of strong perfumes near the animal.
Regulate lighting: provide steady, soft illumination; avoid flashing lights or sudden changes in brightness.
Schedule predictable routines: feed, play, and grooming sessions at the same times each day to create a sense of reliability.

When the cat perceives a calmer environment, its stress response diminishes, making it easier to pinpoint whether the person’s behavior, posture, or appearance remains the primary source of fear. Observe the cat’s reactions after each adjustment; a reduction in avoidance or trembling indicates successful stressor mitigation. If fear persists despite these measures, further analysis of the individual’s actions-such as maintaining a relaxed posture, speaking in a low tone, and allowing the cat to approach voluntarily-will provide additional insight.

4.3 Building Positive Associations

4.3.1 Treat-Based Training

Treat‑based training provides a measurable method for evaluating a cat’s apprehension toward a particular individual. By systematically pairing the person’s presence with highly valued food rewards, the cat receives clear evidence that the person is not a threat. The resulting shift in behavior can be observed, recorded, and used to diagnose the underlying cause of fear.

The technique relies on classical conditioning: the neutral stimulus (the person) becomes associated with a positive outcome (the treat). Repeated pairings weaken the cat’s anxiety response and reveal whether avoidance stems from a specific cue-such as tone of voice, body language, or scent-or from a broader distrust of humans.

Implementation steps

Select a small, aromatic treat that the cat readily accepts.
Instruct the target person to remain motionless at a distance where the cat shows mild curiosity but no overt avoidance.
Offer the treat within the cat’s line of sight while the person maintains a calm posture.
Record the cat’s reaction: approach latency, body posture, ear and tail position, vocalizations.
Gradually reduce the distance after each successful approach, continuing to reward the cat each time it moves closer.
If the cat withdraws or displays stress signals, pause the session, increase distance, and resume only when the cat appears relaxed.

Consistent data collection during each session highlights patterns. A rapid decrease in approach latency suggests the cat’s fear is linked to uncertainty rather than an innate aversion. Persistent hesitation despite repeated rewards indicates deeper trauma or a specific sensory trigger that may require veterinary assessment.

Treat‑based training thus serves both as a diagnostic tool and a therapeutic intervention. By quantifying the cat’s willingness to engage with the person under controlled, rewarding conditions, owners can pinpoint the source of fear and implement targeted desensitization strategies.

4.3.2 Playtime Engagement

As a feline behavior specialist, I focus on the interaction patterns that emerge during play when a cat shows anxiety toward a specific individual. Playtime provides a measurable window into the cat’s emotional state because the activity triggers natural predatory instincts while also exposing social preferences.

During a session, observe the following indicators:

Hesitation to approach the person’s hand or the toy they hold.
Tail position low or tucked, ears flattened, pupils dilated.
Abrupt cessation of activity when the person moves closer.
Vocalizations such as low growls or hisses.

If these signs appear consistently, the cat likely associates the person with an unpredictable or threatening stimulus. Adjusting the play environment can clarify the source of fear:

Use a wand toy that keeps the person’s hands out of the cat’s immediate reach, reducing direct contact.
Allow the cat to initiate the chase; the person should remain stationary until the cat makes the first move.
Maintain a calm, steady voice and avoid sudden movements that could be perceived as aggression.
Gradually decrease the distance between the cat and the person over multiple sessions, rewarding approach with treats.

Document each session: note the cat’s latency to engage, the duration of play, and any stress signals. Patterns in this data reveal whether fear diminishes as the cat experiences predictable, low‑risk interactions. Consistent, controlled play sessions often lead to reduced avoidance behavior, indicating that the cat’s apprehension is linked to unfamiliar handling rather than an inherent dislike of the individual.