A cat in your life can prove very symbolic. Yes, a cat definitely has special meanings, often based in superstition, but centered around some past event. In this post you may learn the answer to the question, “What does the cat symbolize?” Those characteristics of the animal that are most obvious to us usually determines this symbolic meaning.
The list can include the traits of independence, self-love, sensuality, freedom, patient observation, and curiosity. But what special message might an encounter with a cat hold? Note that, as each meeting with a cat will be different, you must determine the significance that might apply.
The Overall Symbolism
The cat is known for its ability to wait and act only when the time is right. Therefore, it is imbued with the quality of patience. It demonstrates courage, and suggests that you embrace your independence and curiosity.
Often, the appearance of the cat might follow a usual routine. However, if something about the encounter seemed unusual or odd, it might mean there is a deeper message. Did the cat hold your gaze in a way that suggested a wish to tell you something?
Did the animal follow you for no apparent reason, demanding attention? Did it appear out of nowhere and disappear abruptly? Did you sense something uncanny about the experience? These could present a sign that you might reflect on the meaning. Here are a few interpretations:
A Cat Crosses Your Path
You can’t really ignore this cat if it walks right in front of you. So, how do you interpret the message? It might relate to any of the meanings on the list above, such as freedom, independence, sensuality, etc. It might also relate to events that are coming your way.
Perhaps it’s a black cat. Such an occurrence usually relates to luck. Different countries view black cats in a variety of ways. Some consider that cat to be a sign of good luck, and others misfortune. It depends on your own view of whether the cat brings good luck or bad.
In what direction does the cat walk? Generally, if the cat walks toward you, it could be bringing good fortune. If it walks away, some believe it takes your good luck with it.
A Cat Washing Its Face
Some Native American tribes say that seeing a cat washing its face means the person seeing the cat will soon be married. Traditionally, this belief applied only to females, and most particularly, to young girls. The girl who saw it first could expect to marry first.
Perhaps this superstition springs from the notion that the powers of observation might apply to identifying a potential partner. That girl’s sharp sight might indicate that she might quickly identify a possible mate.
However it came about, if you look for love, you could consider seeing a cat washing its face as a positive sign.
What Color Was The Cat?
The actual color of the cat can have an influence on its symbolic meaning. Look at some examples:
A Black Cat
As mentioned, black cats can indicate either good or bad luck. However, if a black cat often visits, consider it a positive omen. If you own a black cat, you are already lucky.
Did you know that the black cat symbolizes physical healing? Believers say that the medical instincts of a black cat are amazing. They can tell what the human body needs to return it to a state of health.
Always male, a ginger cat has to do with masculine energy. Do you look to the men in your life to offer help and support when needed? Ginger cats also can bring good news about business or financial matters. Perhaps the ginger cat might signal the coming of a pay raise!
If you are a writer or an artist, choose a black cat. Because of his creative powers, this cat is the right companion for you to have.
A Ginger Cat
Always male, a ginger cat has to do with masculine energy. Do you look to the men in your life to offer help and support when needed? Ginger cats also can bring good news about business or financial matters. Perhaps the ginger cat might signal the coming of a pay raise!
A Grey Cat
If a grey cat comes your way, expect a psychic message. It could come from a dream, giving you valuable insights. These cats are connected with harmony, mystery, and silence. They can bring good luck, emotional stability, peace, and love.
This cat can also have a link to uncertainty or ambiguity. If you are unsure of the path ahead, a gray cat might appear nearby.
A Tabby Or Brown Cat
The color brown often connects to domestic life and feminine energy. That brown or tabby cat that you see unexpectedly could mean good news is on the way. It may relate to your home life.
This cat also signals harmony and domestic happiness.
A White Cat
White aligns with innocence and purity, and can also connect to divine communication. It might indicate the development of spiritual awareness, or even that you may develop psychic powers.
These cats support the human cause and help us raise our own powers because they connect to spirit and nature. They also possess special healing gifts.
Treat your white cat well — it could bring money plus a higher level of spirituality.
Symbolic Meanings Attached To The Cat
Look at this list of symbolic meanings represented in the cat. If you know your pet well, you will recognize these as being part of his makeup:
- Attentiveness
- Cleverness
- Curiosity
- Dexterity
- Independence
- Magical Being
- Mysterious
- Playful
- Sensitive
- Spontaneous
You might better understand your cat by considering these symbolic meanings. Think about cats as compared to other animals. The cat is affectionate, yet remains independent. Though a predator, he can also become the nurturer.
Though a cat may prove well-domesticated, they let you know very clearly that you are not their “owner.” This trait demonstrates the possibility of being devoted and loving while still retaining your own boundaries.
Look into those eyes — don’t you see wisdom and knowing there? Your cat, both intuitive and intelligent, demonstrates traits that we as humans pride ourselves for having.
Because of his love of the night, his best talents remind us of a person who loves to gaze at the moon. Like the cat, we can enjoy the secrets of the night.
Cats may always represent a certain amount of mystery, which intrigues us and draws us closer to him. An extraordinary creature, he will always present a new puzzle to solve regarding his nature.
Next: The Meanings of Dreams About Cats Look for this post on Wednesday. Also, if you wish more in-depth information, read the references listed below.
References I used for this post: millersguild.com/cat-symbolism/ interestingliterature.com/2021/03/cats-symbolism-in-literature-and-art/ whatismyspiritanimal.com/spirit-totem-power-animal-meanings/mammals/cat-symbolism-meaning/ spiritualunite.com/articles/cat-symbolism/
I love the magical cat with the flying mice in your first illo above. Can you tell me the source of that amazing picture?
Love this website. So much interesting stuff!
Mary, I’m not sure of the source. I get most of images from Yahoo. I put in the subject I’m writing about and when it comes up, click on images. Then I use the filter, “free to share and use commercially.” I select from those. Just went back and found that image again. It comes from a website called “allthetropes.org”. Hope that’s helpful.