Aggression towards people with fear of cats

Question
Dear Barb

Do you know of any website or material that I can find on cats that will prove to people that I am not insane? Let me explain please. I have been afraid of cats all my life. I am 54 years old and when I tell people that I am afraid of cats I get nothing but laughs from them. I try to explain that cats will and do stalk me. Even the most well mannered, well behaved, friendliest who wouldn't bother anyone cat will stalk me. This just makes people laugh all the more. I am so tired of trying to convince people that I am not nuts about this. My daughter who has been a professional animal groomer for years is the only one who backs me up. When I walk into a room and a cat is present they immediately sense my fear. They will lay in wait so to speak till I sit down some where and then they will go to work to antagonize me. They honestly will make a be-line direct to me to rub up against me, jump on me or on the chair I am sitting in to get into my hair and a dozen of other things. I have had one try to attack me by literally lunging threw the air with claws exposed going straight for my throat. Now I know how silly this may sound but I am quite serious and this all has and does happen but people never believe me. Is there any articles or information that you can send me or direct me to that backs up the fact that cats do and can stalk people? Especially if they sense your fear of them. I have had them lay in one spot of the room just staring and following me. I know this may sound like I am paranoid but I am honestly not. It really happens. I love dogs and have no fear of dogs. I am tired of people, friends and family laughing at me. Once and for all I would like to have the proof to show them I am not nuts.

Thank you for any assistance you can offer to this situation.

Jan Jeska

Answer
Hi Jan,

I do not know of a website that can back you up.... however, I do believe you.  My grandmother claimed she was afraid of and disliked cats.  I have always had them, so mine would immediately make a bee-line for her and rub on her, jump on her and demand attention.  

First of all.... try and talk yourself out of the fear.  The cats will ignore you if you can do that.  They do indeed smell your fear.  Your own mind can do much to allay the fear you feel.  You just have to want it badly enough.  If you wish, write me again, and I will share some thoughts with you about that.

Second, don't tell anyone.  If they don't know of your fear, they cannot laugh at you.  Either that or tell them all to go to "you know where".  :)  I hope to hear from you again.  I know this is very real, and maybe I can help with some easy tips and things to try.  

Hugs,
Barb