Myths, Superstitions & Spells

Cats have gotten a bad rap in the world of the unlucky!

In the 1400s when witches were burned at the stake, their cats were ordered burned along with them. They were viewed as not only her private link with the devil, but it was also believed witches could turn themselves into cats and back into human form at will.
Thus, in a superstitious society it became increasingly impossible to know if a cat was really just a witch in disguise.
Another belief was that witches allowed their cats to suck their blood -- intertwining the vampire legend among the superstitious.
The many superstitions revolving around the black cat began as new religions emerged -- ones that denounced all things considered holy by previous religions (as in the ancient Egyptians belief in the Goddess Bast (a black female cat).
Black cats, with their yellow eyes and nocturnal habits, embodied darkness and mystery, and became associated with the supernatural and evil. They gained a reputation of being witches' helpers, reincarnated evil spirits and bearers of bad luck.

Old Wives Tales & Other Beliefs:
If a black cat crosses your path without harming you, it is said to mean you are protected by the devil.
If a black cat walks into the room of an ill person, who later dies, it has been known to be blamed on the cat's supernatural powers.
In some parts of the United States, a black cat crossing your path is considered unlucky. In Britian, it is considered good luck.
If a strange black cat enters your home uninvited, you will have great fortune throughout the year. If you shoo it away, it will take it's gift of good luck with it.
A black cat aboard ship is a very good omen... if your man is a sailor keep a black cat in your home to insure his safety while at sea.

Links to my other critter sites:
Paw Prints on the Heart: My Furry Feline Critters
The Evolution of our modern day Mouser
Interesting Cat Facts
Critter Links for Cat Lovers
Famous Felines
Lessons in Life: Loving, laughing, living

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