Concerned that your cat is too shy to socialise around other people? Help your cat relax with our expert guide on shy cats.

Shyness in cats

Is your cat too shy to socialise? This short guide explains why some cats are shy and how you can help them relax around people.

Why is my cat so timid?

Timid behaviour could be caused by:

Genetics - some cats are naturally more cautious than others.

Lack of socialisation - if cats do not socialise with humans, particularly during their first eight weeks of life, they may be stressed or frightened by human contact.

Bad experiences - if your cat has been harmed or scared in the past, they may be more wary of people.

How to help your shy, nervous or timid cat

You can help your cat to feel safe and secure by:

• providing plenty of refuges where they can hide. Cats de-stress more quickly if they can hide, preferably somewhere high and dark, such as behind sofas or on shelves
• preventing other cats from entering your home by windows, doors or cat flaps. Make sure your cat is not being bullied in the garden or intimidated by other cats through windows or doors
• maintaining daily routines so your cat knows what to expect
• use synthetic scent pheromones (available from your vet). These can help reassure your cat and reduce stress
• sit quietly near your cat so they can get used to you in their own time. Ignore them while you read a book or take a nap so they don't feel pressurised or anxious in your presence. Do this while they are eating, or give them a small food treat so they associate you with a positive experience
• let your cat approach you. Direct approaches are extremely threatening, so don't force attention on your cat
• blink slowly at your cat, narrow your eyes so they are half open and then turn your face away slowly to reassure your cat that you are not a threat

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