[header] How to break your cat's cycle of xenophobia (fear of strangers ) [title] Ask guests not to approach your cat. [step] When you have guests over, ask them to let your cat approach them, instead of the other way around. Cats are generally curious by nature, so letting them explore new guests without becoming startled can help to socialize them. 
[substeps] Cats may be less likely to approach children, guests who are very tall, or people they've never encountered before. Be especially patient with your cat when guests of this kind come by.