For one, they hit a genetic bottleneck a long time ago, and now they're so similar that genetically speaking, any two cheetah are identical twins. This inbreeding makes them very susceptible to disease. Presumably in the World of Darkness the Swara's occasional infusion of half-human genetic variation into the gene pool helps out a lot, but there must still be problems. This could present all sorts of plots, from diseases that need to be fought, to complicated attempts to introduce more genetic variation into the species. Many cheetah don't live to adult-hood.
Cheetah cubs are vulnerable, particularly to other predators, such as lions and hyenas.
Also, farmers and ranchers in the areas where cheetah live may kill cheetah to prevent them from feeding on livestock. Thus, the Swara must value very highly those who do live to adulthood. And those who make it must be fairly competent. Cheetah aren't actually all that nervous and flighty. But that's different from being scared of everything.