8 Surprising Cat Myths and Superstitions from Around the World

From Divine Guardians to Secret Gossips

For thousands of years, cats have shared our homes and our history. Their mysterious nature, glowing eyes, and silent movements have made them the perfect subject for folklore. While some cultures worshipped them as gods, others feared them as omens of darkness. Here are 8 of the most surprising cat myths from across the globe.

1. The Dutch "Gossip" Cats (Netherlands)

In the Netherlands, some believe that cats are notorious gossips. An old superstition suggests that cats will listen to your private family conversations and blab all your secrets to the town. For this reason, many Dutch people traditionally avoid having important discussions while a cat is in the room.

2. The Baby's Breath Stealer (England/United States)

One of the most persistent (and false) myths in English folklore is that cats will climb into a baby’s crib to "suck" or steal the infant’s breath. This likely originated from cats seeking the warmth of a crib or the smell of milk on a baby's face, but it led to centuries of unnecessary fear.

3. Black Cats: Good Luck or Bad? (Japan vs. Europe)

In much of Western Europe and North America, a black cat crossing your path is a sign of bad luck. However, in Japan, black cats are considered a symbol of good fortune. It is even believed that a single woman who owns a black cat will attract more high-quality suitors!

4. The Weather-Controlling Sailors (Britain/Indonesia)

Sailors were notoriously superstitious. In British maritime lore, if a cat fell overboard, it was believed a terrible storm would follow. Meanwhile, in parts of Indonesia, there is a myth that cats control the rain. If the weather was too dry, people would sometimes splash water on a cat to "trigger" a revenge storm from the feline.

5. The Vampire Grave Jumpers (Southern Europe)

In parts of Southern Europe and the Balkans, it was once believed that if a cat jumped over a fresh grave before burial, the deceased would return to life as a vampire or a restless spirit. People often stood guard over coffins to ensure no cat came near.

6. The Sneezing Fortune Teller (Italy)

In Italy, hearing a cat sneeze is actually a very good omen. It is believed that if a cat sneezes once, money is coming your way. If a bride hears a cat sneeze on her wedding day, it means she will have a long and happy marriage.

7. The First Guest in a New Home (Russia)

Russian tradition holds cats in high regard as protectors of the household. It is a common superstition that a cat should be the first to enter a new home. People believe the cat will absorb any lingering negative energy, ensuring the family lives in harmony and prosperity.

8. The Icelandic Yule Cat (Iceland)

Forget "The Grinch"—in Iceland, they have Jólakötturinn, the giant Yule Cat. According to legend, this massive cat prowls the snowy countryside during Christmas and eats anyone who hasn't received new clothes to wear before Christmas Eve (a way to encourage children to finish their chores and knitting).

Conclusion

Whether they are viewed as bringing wealth or bringing rain, it is clear that cats occupy a unique space in the human imagination. These myths reflect our attempt to explain the unexplainable behavior of our feline friends. While we now know that cats don't actually gossip or steal breath, their "magical" aura remains as strong as ever.

The Final Reflection

If your cat really was a secret spirit or a messenger from another world, what do you think they would tell the rest of the world about you?

FAQs

Q: Do cats really have nine lives? A: This is a myth! It likely originated from their "righting reflex," which allows them to twist their bodies in mid-air and land on their feet from dangerous heights, making it seem like they have supernatural survival powers.

Q: Why are black cats associated with witches? A: In the Middle Ages, cats were seen as "familiars"—supernatural entities that assisted witches. Because black cats blend into the shadows, they were feared as the perfect spies for dark magic.

Q: Is it true that cats can predict earthquakes? A: While not a "superstition," many scientists believe cats can sense subtle vibrations in the earth or changes in atmospheric pressure minutes before an earthquake occurs, making them appear "psychic."

Q: Why do Japanese "Beckoning Cat" statues (Maneki-Neko) have one paw up? A: This comes from a legend where a cat saved a wealthy lord from a lightning strike by "beckoning" him into a temple. Today, the raised paw is believed to invite good luck and customers into a business.

Updated on November 2025