Is it a Good Idea to Introduce Your Cat to a Family Member Who Doesn't like Cats?

Cat lovers may find it hard to understand how anyone could possibly dislike cats. They are affectionate, loyal and friendly. What is there not to like? But rather than expect others to share your passion for cats, is it a good idea to then introduce your cat to a family member who doesn't like cats?

Fear of Cats

People are not just afraid of dogs and other animals that appear to be openly threatening them. Some people are terrified of cats and cannot approach a cat without their heart pounding and the fear welling up. To a cat lover, a cat is a small, harmless animal. But to a person who is afraid of cats, the animals take on a different meaning to them altogether. Cats can cause harm and this knowledge will not allay the fears of people who feel this way. To then introduce your cat to your relative can cause more harm than good to your relative. Even if the cat does not cause any physical harm, the emotional harm has already been done.

Unwanted Attention

Cats are naturally curious of new sights, smells and people who are around them. In an effort to make sense of any new faces, cats will usually approach the person in question and start sniffing them. This attention will only increase a person's fear. Just the close proximity of the cat can make people afraid of what will happen next. Will the cat bite or scratch them? What if the cat jumps on their lap and starts to claw them? These are perfectly valid fears, especially if your family member has been attacked by a cat in the past. That is why it is best to address these fears, rather than brush off the concerns. Do not think like a cat lover. Put yourself in your family member's shoes. Would you like to be approached by an animal you have a fear of?