- Black Cats Weren’t Always Bad Luck
In ancient Egypt, black cats were actually sacred and believed to bring good fortune. They were associated with the goddess Bastet, the deity of home, fertility, and protection. - Cats Could Steal Your Breath (Myth!)
A long-standing superstition in Europe claimed that cats — especially around newborns — could steal a baby’s breath while they slept. This myth likely arose from cats curling up near warm faces. - Witches and Cats: The Familiar Bond
During the European witch hunts, cats (especially black ones) were believed to be “familiars” — magical companions or even shape-shifted witches. Owning a cat was considered suspicious. - Cats Have Nine Lives (or Seven, or Six!)
The idea of cats having nine lives likely stems from their agility and ability to survive dangerous situations. In Spain and some Arabic cultures, they only get seven or even six lives! - Cats Predicting Death
In some cultures and even hospitals (like the famous therapy cat Oscar), cats are thought to sense when someone is near death — they often curl up next to the dying. - In Japan, Cats Bring Wealth
The famous “Maneki Neko” (beckoning cat) with a raised paw is believed to bring money and good luck. A left paw raised brings customers; a right paw brings wealth. - Sailor’s Superstition: Cats Prevent Storms
Sailors in the past believed that bringing a cat aboard a ship would protect them from storms and ensure a safe journey, due to the cat’s mystical sense of balance and weather. - Polydactyl Cats Were Pirate Charms
Cats with extra toes (polydactyl cats) were considered lucky mascots on ships, especially among pirates and sailors, because of their exceptional balance and rodent-hunting skills. - A Cat Crossing Your Path Means Different Things Globally
In Western cultures, a black cat crossing your path is bad luck. But in Scotland and Japan, it’s a sign of good fortune and success. - Dreaming of Cats Meant a Secret Will Be Revealed
In medieval folklore, dreaming of a cat was believed to signify hidden knowledge or betrayal — a warning that someone close may not be trusted.
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Myths & Facts