Full article with thanks to: ukpets.com/blog/why-are-cats-scared-of-cucumbers
Why are cats scared of cucumbers? Scientists are yet to find a definitive answer to why cats and cucumbers do not get along. However, they have come up with a few theories that could explain this peculiar feline behaviour.
Continue reading to know the possible reasons why cats are scared of cucumbers. We will also talk about the harmful effects of the prank on your feline friend.
Reason #1: Fear of Snakes
The most common theory many experts go by is that cucumbers resemble snakes, which cats are scared of. In the wild, felines are not the only dangerous predators; snakes are too. These slithery reptiles could prey upon cats.
However, other experts believe that a cat being scared of cucumber is not due to the fruit’s resemblance to snakes. Here are some of their explanations refuting the theory:
- Most cats are curious about snakes rather than scared of them. They are more likely to see these reptiles as toys instead of predators. Unless snakes do something threatening, your feline friend will assume that they are harmless.
- In the wild, felines prey on snakes just as these reptiles prey on them. Even in a domestic setting, several videos showed cats battling snakes. So to say that felines are afraid of snakes is not entirely true.
- It is the jump scare that makes cats afraid of cucumbers, not the fruit’s snake-like appearance. Once their adrenaline has worn down, felines will begin to realise that the unknown entity is just a harmless fruit. We will explain more about this point below.
Reason #2: Not Fond of Surprises
One of the more logical answers to the question “Why are cats scared of cucumbers” is that cats were caught off-guard by the fruit’s presence.
In videos of cats scared off by cucumbers, people carry out the prank by placing the fruit behind unsuspecting cats. They often do this whilst felines are doing activities that leave them vulnerable such as eating or using the litter box.
When cats turn around, they get startled by the unexpected appearance of the fruit. Thus, their extreme reaction is not brought on by their fear of cucumbers but by the unforeseen change in their environment.
Reason #3: Food Territoriality
Another possible reason for the question “Why do cats fear cucumbers?” is the possessiveness of their food.
Many videos of cats getting scared of cucumbers were recorded whilst they were eating. Numerous felines are prone to safeguarding their meals out of instinct.
The sudden presence of cucumbers in their feeding area might lead them to think that it is a live being planning to steal their food. Hence, they perceive the fruit as a threat, causing them to react out of fear and anxiety.
A cat scared by cucumbers enters into a state of distress and panic. She may jump in surprise, have an increased heart rate, and emit an alarmed meow.
It is not uncommon for her fur to stand on end and their backs arched out of fear. Many cats reacting to cucumbers storm out of the room and reassess from a distance.
You might be wondering: “Are all cats afraid of cucumbers?” No, not all cats are terrified of cucumbers.
Some of them will curiously approach the fruit instead of running away out of fear. They give it a sniff to assess whether it is a threat or an interesting toy.
Do Not Pull This Prank on Your Cat
Now that we have given the possible answers to the question “Why are cats scared of cucumbers?” we discourage pet parents from pranking their feline friends.
To us, it may seem like a funny situation, but it can be a traumatic experience for cats. According to Jill Goldman, a certified animal behaviourist, causing stress to an animal is not a good thing. It can affect both their mental and physical well-being.
Let us delve deeper into the reasons why pranking your cat with cucumber is a bad idea.
1. Development of Health Problems and Behavioural Issues
Triggering the cat’s natural startled response can lead her to develop stress and anxiety. Repeated exposure to the prank may eventually result in behavioural problems such as aggression.
Medical issues like vomiting, diarrhoea, and hair loss may occur when a cat is stressed.
2. At Risk of Injuries
Pranking your cat may leave her traumatised and in physical pain. We have pointed out that the fear response of cats includes jumping and running away.
In the heat of the moment, they might escape the house and get into an accident. Cats that jump out of fright might land their legs at an odd angle, resulting in a sprain or bone fracture.
3. Feeling Less Safe in Their Home
Numerous cats scared by cucumbers were eating from their food bowls when the prank happened. Mealtimes are supposed to be a safe time for felines.
Using this period to scare them will make them associate eating food with an unsavoury experience. It can lead them to feel less secure in their surroundings.
4. Broken Bond
Cats do not understand what a prank is, unlike us. They may see it as an attempt on their life, which lessens their trust in their owners. Mending a broken bond with your feline friend may take years to accomplish.
Some cats, especially those predisposed to anxiety, might never be the same again. They will carry a lasting mental scar that could make them distant and elusive for the rest of their life.
You do not need to prank your feline friend to provide entertainment on the internet. Take a video of your cat playing with her favourite cat toy or when taking her on outdoor adventures with you.
It is a great way of sharing memorable experiences with your cat whilst strengthening her bond with you.
Full article with thanks to: ukpets.com/blog/why-are-cats-scared-of-cucumbers
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