The Little Book of Cat Magic

1. Cats possess an inherent, special magic.

If you have ever had a cat (I won’t say owned, because no one ever really owns a cat), you already know they have a special magic.

Mysterious companions. Cats are more than pets; they are mysterious beings with uncanny intuition. Their changeable moods and ability to appear and disappear add to their magical aura.

Ancient connection. Witches and cats share a long history, linked by cats' perceived knowledge and mystical nature. Their purr itself is seen as magical, offering comfort and healing.

More than decorative. Beyond entertainment, cats have served practical roles like pest control and companions. They are faithful, loving, and sometimes, true familiars.

2. Cats hold a revered place in history and mythology.

Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods.

Ancient reverence. From Mesopotamia to Egypt, cats were valued for pest control and later revered. Egyptians famously worshipped Bastet and mourned lost cats deeply.

Global folklore. Cats appear in tales worldwide, from Indian epics to Persian creation myths. They are seen as guardians, lucky symbols, and even divine disguises.

Shifting perceptions. While revered in some cultures, cats faced persecution in medieval Europe, linked to witches and evil. They regained popularity later, notably in the Victorian era.

3. Many deities are linked to feline power.

Bast is probably the best known, but there are others as well.

Egyptian protectors. Bastet, the cat-headed goddess, is a key figure associated with domestic cats, fertility, and protection. Sekhmet represents a fierce, lioness aspect.

Global connections. Norse goddess Freya's chariot was pulled by cats. Greek goddess Hecate transformed into a cat. Other deities like Ai Apaec and Ra also have feline ties.

Calling on power. Working with cat deities can offer protection, help with love, healing, or magical work. Offerings and specific spells can strengthen these connections.

4. Finding and naming your cat can be a magical process.

If you listen well enough, some cats will tell you their names.

Cats choose you. Often, cats enter our lives unexpectedly, guided by the universe or the cats themselves. Keeping an open mind helps you find the right companion.

Names hold power. Choosing a name carefully is important, as it can reflect or influence the cat's personality. Some believe cats have secret names only they know.

Magical naming. Spells can help reveal a cat's perfect name, perhaps through dreams or intuition. Considering names with magical or historical significance can also be fitting.

5. Living with cats requires practical care and magical aid.

There are many rewards to living with a cat, but sharing your home with a feline is not without its challenges.

Behavioral challenges. Cats can have difficult habits or personalities. Patience, understanding triggers, and consistent training are key to managing misbehavior.

Health and safety. Caring for a cat involves vet visits, vaccines, and preventing household dangers. Keeping cats indoors increases lifespan and reduces risks.

Magical support. Spells can aid in training, integrating new cats, finding lost cats, ensuring safe travel, easing moves, and protecting outdoor cats from harm.

6. Building a deep connection with your cat takes patience.

Much like dealing with people, connecting with cats takes patience, understanding, and a willingness to accept them the way they are.

Individual personalities. Each cat is unique, and bonding time varies. Some trust instantly, others, especially those with past trauma, take years to feel safe.

Communication is key. Learn your cat's body language, vocalizations, and motivations (fear, hunger, boredom). Respond with kindness, slow movements, and soothing tones.

Mutual respect. Don't force affection; let the cat approach on their terms. Offering treats and creating safe spaces builds trust and strengthens the bond.

7. Cats can serve as powerful magical familiars.

Not all familiars are cats, nor are all cats familiars, but it is certainly not an uncommon thing for a witch to have a cat who is one.

Magical partners. Familiars are animals with an affinity for magic, lending energy to workings. They may show interest in rituals or healing work.

Natural inclination. A cat is either a familiar or not; it cannot be forced. They are drawn to magical energy and may participate in consistent, often surprising, ways.

Enhancing power. Working with a familiar can theoretically boost a witch's power. Simple blessings and rituals can honor and strengthen this magical relationship.

8. Feline power animals offer unique guidance.

Regardless of whether or not you have a familiar, you might want to have a feline power animal to call on.

Spirit allies. Power animals guide and protect, often appearing when needed most. They embody specific attributes like strength, intuition, or adaptability.

Diverse forms. Feline power animals include domestic cats, bobcats, cheetahs, leopards, lions, lynx, mountain lions, panthers, and tigers. Each offers distinct energies.

Connecting with power. You can discover your power animal through signs, dreams, meditation, or shamanic journeying. Talismans like tiger's-eye can help connect with their attributes.

9. Cats have natural intuitive and divination abilities.

Have you ever noticed how cats seem to know things before they happen?

Uncanny senses. Cats often react to things humans can't perceive, whether bugs, spirits, or auras. Their intuition extends to sensing impending events.

Predictive behavior. Historically, cat behavior was used for weather prediction and other omens. Observing their actions can offer insights into the future.

Divination partners. Cats can assist in divination methods like tarot or rune casting by indicating cards or stones. Their natural attraction to pendulums can also be utilized.

10. Simple crafts enhance the magical bond with your cat.

You might not think of crafts or recipes when it comes to your cat... but there are actually a few fun crafty things you can do with cat magic.

Using feline components. Shed fur, claws, or whiskers can be incorporated into charms and spells. Always obtain these ethically without harming the cat.

Protective charms. Create charms using cat figures, herbs, and feline components for protection. Lucky cat figurines can be set up as altars for prosperity.

Home blessings. Make charm bags with cat fur, herbs, and crystals to bless and protect your home. Simple carved candles can also ward off negative energy.

11. The love and loss of a cat are profound gifts.

I believe that the cats who share our lives are a gift from the gods—a gift so great and wonderful that we only get it for a few too-short years...

Inevitable grief. Losing a beloved cat is deeply painful, regardless of how many times it happens. It's okay to grieve fully for your companion.

Easing transition. Spells and rituals can help ease a cat's passing and assist their spirit in moving on. Honoring their memory is part of the healing process.

Continued connection. Some cats linger in spirit or communicate after death. Meditation and specific spells can help you connect with their energy and find peace.

Last updated: May 4, 2025