Cats, those mysterious and independent creatures, have captivated human hearts and imaginations for centuries, including our very own! 

Witches and Familiars
The association between cats and witches has deep roots in folklore from various cultures, including European traditions. During the Middle Ages, cats were seen as companions to witches and were believed to possess supernatural powers. The idea of the "witch's familiar" emerged, suggesting that witches could communicate with their feline companions, who acted as conduits between the spirit and mortal worlds. They believed they could sense energies that humans could not, and even communicate with the deceased.

There was also the belief that witches could transform into black cats to go unnoticed, and the superstition that crossing paths with a black cat brought bad luck emerged during this time. Ironically, in some cultures, such Scottish, English, and Welsh, cats were actually considered to bring luck. They were protectors against evil spirits, and were kept as talismans in homes to ward off malevolent forces (not just mice and rats!).

Greek Mythology
In Greek mythology, the cat finds a place in the tales of the goddess Hecate. Hecate, often associated with magic, the moon, and crossroads, was believed to have cats as her companions. With their nocturnal nature and ability to see in low light, they are natural companions for a goddess who governs the night and the unseen. Some stories suggest that Hecate could transform into a cat, using the feline form to navigate the underworld and the mortal realm.

The Greeks also harmonised the Ancient Egyptian Goddess Bastet with their own Goddess of Animals, Artemis, and as such the association with cats emerged within the lore of Artemis. 

Ancient Egyptian Mythology
We all know Ancient Egypt as the true home of cat worship! In Ancient Egypt cats were associated with the goddess Bastet, the feline deity representing home, fertility, and protection. Bastet's image was often depicted with the head of a lioness or a domestic cat. Egyptians believed that cats had protective qualities and considered them guardians of the home. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was punishable by death.

Japanese Mythology
Maneki-neko or the "beckoning cat" is a common talisman in Japan, believed to bring good luck and fortune to its owner. These figurines typically depict a Japanese Bobtail. You'll see them in various businesses from shops to casinos, with a raised paw to attract customers.

Photo by Sarah Trummer

Norse Mythology
The goddess Freyja, associated with love, beauty, and fertility, had a chariot pulled by two large, magical cats (often thought to be Norwegian Forest Cats). These cats were a gift from Thor, and Freyja's connection with them elevated cats' status in Norse culture.

So now we invite you to fully complete your initiation as a worshipper at the altar of the Cat! Now available is our Witch Cat Feline Familiar Sterling Silver Wax Seal Ring and a matching Necklace, why not dedicate one of these treasures to your own furred best friend?