I heard the same about the sustained eye contact...and also another piece of help...I heard if instead of extending your hand to sniff or attempt to pet the kitty, extend your fist- supposedly, the size and shape resembles that of a cat head (Hey, I didn't make this up, I read it someplact ) and is viewed as less threatening.

It also helps my scaredy cat Georgie to be on her level, aka, the floor.

While I admit having a scaredy cat is not good, usually, there are some plusses! Like, if the gas man comes in, or some other visitor, that scaredy cat won't run for the door! And, you will always know if someone is in your house- like a robber...cause that cat will be in hiding. I left my front door open once (ok, several times) and was fearful upon my arrival. When I saw all the cats lounging on the couch- I figured I was safe (My front door opens onto a tiny little screened in porch- my cats weren't given free access to the outside).

And, it could be worse...my two babies- Allie and Dakky are SO socialized that the plumber called me at work to ask if I minded if he confined the cats to my room, as they wouldn't stay off of his back/chest while he was working!!! Too Funny!!