Throughout history, cats have been more than just pets. They’ve been revered in many cultures, with the Egyptians being the most famous for their adoration of these creatures. However, DNA testing has revealed that their start as domesticated animals dates back over 100,000 years.
So, it’s no wonder that there are many tales and beliefs that go along with them. While we are all familiar with the superstition about black cats crossing our paths, there are even more myths about their powers.
Watch the video from June 24 to learn about the special significance of white-pawed kitties in ancient civilizations.
Sweet Callie the Calico (@ a.cat.named.callie ) has lovely paws, and her mom shares the unique history associated with their coloring, revealing a fascinating array of beliefs. She reveals that in many cultures, cats with white paws are believed to bring luck and prosperity to their humans. In Europe, they were thought to possess psychic powers and the ability to see the future. In Japan and China, they were perceived as harbingers of good luck and fortune. The Egyptians believed that these sacred animals could protect them from evil forces. In the Middle Ages, these white paws were viewed as a symbol of royalty, she describes.
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A Cat’s Place in History
According to the World History Encyclopedia, cats in the ancient world began living among humans in 12,000 BCE in Mesopotamia, which was around the same time dogs, sheep, and goats were also domesticated. It was the Egyptians who were particularly devoted to their cats, to the extent that households would shave off their eyebrows as a sign of deep mourning when a cat passed away. The respect for their sacred animals extended to where Egyptians would not defend themselves against invading Persian soldiers who held cats in their arms and painted them on their shields, ultimately leading to Egypt’s fall. Felines were also highly esteemed in India, China, Japan, and Greece for their independence and utility. Unfortunately, during the Medieval period, the writing of author Walter Map associated them with demonic forces, a trend that lasted a few hundred years. But by the Victorian age, cats had regained their rightful status as beloved pets.
As pet parents everywhere know, the color of their paws is only one aspect of what makes our pets so special. While they may symbolize good luck and fortune, we know them as loyal companions who are always willing to stand by our side, enriching our lives with their presence.
It’s no surprise that cats have been respected for thousands of years. They will undoubtedly be loved and cherished for thousands more.
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