Can Cats Feel Embarrassed?

In a 2008 study, cat owners were asked which emotions they believed their cat could feel. Topping the list were 'curiosity', 'joy' and 'fear', while the three least likely emotions were 'guilt', 'shame' and 'embarrassment'. But, as you might suspect, your cat is likely to experience other emotions, too.

What do cats do when embarrassed?

Fearful cats arch their backs and hiss to scare away the threat. Surprised pets dart out of the room or take cover under the couch. More complex emotions, such as embarrassment, shame, jealousy, disappointment, and compassion, are a little tougher to figure out when it comes to pets.

Do cats like to be embarrassed?

While it's impossible to say for sure how the cat feels, it would make sense for it to be embarrassed. Embarrassment makes an animal want to hide away, and if it has to do something, it should do so in secret. If a cat vomits near another cat, this won't be good for either cat.