Fear of scratches (amychophobia)

Amychophobia is a fear of scratches, whether from an animal, a thorn or a sharp edge. It can make someone wary of cats, rose bushes or rough surfaces. Some people worry less about the sting and more about the mark it leaves or the chance of infection.

About this phobia

The name comes from the Greek amyche, meaning scratch. It is an uncommon term with very little clinical documentation. It may overlap with ailurophobia, the fear of cats, and with wider worries about injury or blood.

What it feels like

• Keeping a distance from cats and playful pets
• Wearing long sleeves or gloves when gardening
• Checking the skin closely after a small scrape

Explore more unusual fears in the rare phobias A to Z, or browse the common phobias.

Common questions

Should I worry about a scratch getting infected?

Most small scratches heal well with simple cleaning. Signs like spreading redness, swelling, heat or a fever are worth checking with a GP or pharmacist. Knowing what to look for can help keep the worry in proportion.

How can you help?

I use hypnotherapy and NLP to change how your mind responds to the thing you fear, so the old alarm stops going off. Sessions are one to one over Zoom, and you get a recording of the hypnosis to listen to afterwards.

How many sessions will I need?

Many clients notice a real difference after one 90 minute session. If the fear goes back a long way, three sessions gives us room to make the change stick.

Ready to start?

Book a £49 consultation call and we’ll talk through your fear, or take the free suitability test first.

See all session options and prices