Unusual Superstitions about Cats

Down through the centuries, many strange superstitions about cats have arisen. In this article, we’ll focus on lesser-known and unusual myths.

Everybody knows about the superstition surrounding black cats, don’t they? No, actually! Whether a black cat brings bad luck or good fortune depends entirely on where you live.

For example, the Japanese have correctly associated black cats with good fortune. And the Japanese are not alone. The Scots believe prosperity will befall anyone who finds a black cat on their doorstep.

Here at CatInfo.net, we couldn’t agree more with the Scots.

This article takes a lighthearted look at unusual and little-known superstitions surrounding cats. We hope you’re caught off-guard by some of this folklore, enjoy a chuckle or two, and don’t take it too seriously.

Lucky Wedding

In Russia, if a cat sneezes near a bride on her wedding day, it’s seen as a positive omen. According to legend, a sneezing cat foretells a life of prosperity and happiness for the newlyweds.

We’re unsure whether Stalin officially denounced this odd superstition, but he was a well-known spoilsport, so we wouldn’t be surprised.

Moon Madness

Did you know that cats are more active during a full moon? We didn’t, but are aware of many cultures that believe people go a bit loony during a full moon.

In some countries, it’s not people but cats that are thought to turn into lunatics under the glow of a silvery moon. Such behavior is said to foretell impending changes in the weather and human behavior, especially in werewolves.

Cat’s Eye Jewelry

The impressive civilization of Ancient Egyptians had the good sense to revere cats. They believed that wearing cat’s eye gemstones would bring protection and luck.

The eye-like patterns on the gemstones were thought to mirror the all-seeing eyes of cats. We’re not convinced the ancient Egyptians were entirely correct. But we do know our cats are able to hear a can opener being removed from a kitchen draw from a distance of no less than three thousand paces.

A Whisker Wisp and a Tail Twitch

In some cultures, finding a whisker that a cat has shed is considered a good omen. It’s believed to bring luck and protection, almost like possessing a magical talisman. We’re not entirely sure the cat that lost its whisker shares this belief.

Meanwhile, in some parts of Italy, a twitching cat’s tail is believed to predict imminent visitors. If the cat’s tail is twitching, expect guests to arrive shortly. Those skilled in feline body language may also predict the imminent arrival of a swipe.

Weather Forecast

Folklore in the British Isles suggests rain is on the way when a cat washes its face over its ears. It’s a quirky way of predicting the weather that’s been passed down through generations.

There’s little chance this rumor will be proven wrong. Having lived in the British Isles for almost two decades, I can confirm that rain is always on the way, irrespective of which body part a cat might be washing.

Summing up Superstitions about Cats

Quirky superstitions say more about human nature than they do about our cats. But they serve to remind us that cats have been woven into human culture for thousands of years.

Unusual superstitions about cats may be rooted in historical events, or provide commentary on feline behavior. They may be imaginative tales spun over generations that grew in scope when retold to the next generation.

Whatever their origin, they all contribute to the mystical aura that surrounds our whiskered companions. So, the next time you catch your cat sneezing or washing its face, remember the rich tapestry of superstitions that adds an extra layer of fascination to your furry friend.