Cat Myths and Legends

Fluffy is a very mysterious little furball, who has gathered more than her fair share of myths and legends. In fact, for an adorable, innocent-looking pet, she has earned a rather impressive collection of urban and rural legends. In this article, a local veterinarian highlights a few.

Luck

Cats have also long been associated with both good and bad luck. As you probably already know, black kitties have been considered bad luck in Western mythology. This superstition continues to this day, making a very unfortunate problem, as low adoption rates of black cats are said to be caused by this. In other eras and cultures, black cats have been thought of as good luck. In some cases, a feline’s luck depends on her color. For example, Buddhist folklore says that dark furred cats bring gold, while kitties that are lighter bring silver. Russian Blue cats are considered good luck in Russia. In China, luck and age are connected, with older felines being the most lucky.

Cat Goddesses

Cats have been associated with many different goddesses. The most popular might be Egypt’s Bastet, who was often depicted in kitty form. The ancient Greeks had their own cat goddesses, including Ailuros, Artemis, and Athena. Freya, the Norse goddess, drove a chariot pulled by two large kitties. Also, the Hindu goddesses Durga and Parvati were closely correlated with big cats.

Pussy Willow

The pussy willow story is one of the most endearing legends about kitties. This fable starts with a playful litter of kittens chasing butterflies on a sunny spring day. Unfortunately, the kittens fell into a river. Their desperate mother cried out in distress. Hearing her scared meows, a willow tree on the riverbank lowered its branches into the water. Grabbing the branches, the kittens climbed to safety, soaking wet and crying. According to this myth, willow trees have extended branches with furry ‘kitten’ buds every spring since then.

Immortality

Finally, we have that belief that cats have nine lives. We all know that this isn’t true. While some of our kitties do have an uncanny ability to dodge dangerous situations, this is usually by luck. Keep Fluffy safe and sound inside. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to give your kitty an overload of soft beds, treats, fun toys, and catnip.

Do you need to know about your cat’s health or care? Contact your local pet clinic!