Cats can be afraid of many things, and some cats are naturally more fearful due to their genetic make-up, while others may appear more confident. Here are some common things that cats are scared of:

• Loud noises: Cats have sensitive hearing, and loud noises such as thunder, fireworks, or construction can startle them.

• Unfamiliar objects: Novelty is a major component of cat fears, and unfamiliar objects can take some getting used to. For example, a new piece of furniture that smells funny can be scary for a cat.

• Unfamiliar people or animals: Cats that are not socialized well to humans from a young age may be fearful of newcomers. Similarly, cats may be afraid of other animals that they are not familiar with.

• Water: While not all cats are scared of water, most of them are. This may be because their ancestors were desert dwellers.

• Plastic bags, balloons, or fans: Cats can be scared of all sorts of things around and outside the home, some of which may be unusual.

• Cucumbers: While not all cats are scared of cucumbers, some cats react to them because they look like snakes.

Cats can hide signs of fear and anxiety extremely well, making them hard to pick up on. If a cat is afraid, it might try to hide somewhere inaccessible, get up to a safe, high vantage point, or run away – all of which are cats’ preferred ways of coping with stress and conflict. If you notice that your cat is scared, its important to help them overcome their fears. Gradual exposure to the source of fear, positive reinforcement, and creating a safe and secure environment can all help.