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What Does It Mean If You Dream about Cats?

Published: May 26, 2021
Updated: Oct 22, 2024
What Does It Mean If You Dream about Cats?
In this article
    Reading time
    11 min
    Dream Meaning Summary
    Dreaming about cats may suggest a desire for more independence or autonomy in your life.

    Dreams can sometimes be so strange that you wake up feeling confused. Imagine being in a dream where you are just relaxing on a beach and all of a sudden, a bunch of cats fall from the sky. If you’re a cat lover, it may not be unusual to dream about them. But if you’re not, you may wonder what it means to dream about cats.

    In this article, we will explore the different types of cat dreams and their meaning in your waking life.

    What Do Cats Symbolize?

    what do cats symbolize

    These cute, little felines are thought to be a symbol of independence, curiosity, and freedom. Most cats spend their time hunting and grooming themselves. From time to time, they may also quietly observe any new presence or object from a distance.

    The symbolization of cats differs depending on the culture. For example, in ancient Egypt, they were once highly revered so much so that it was forbidden to kill them [1]. In the Middle Ages, they were associated with the Devil.

    In some other cultures, they were considered as companions of witches too, helping them carry out spells.

    These varied representations are mirrored by a range of different interpretations of cat-related dreams. So if you’ve dreamed of cats yourself, be prepared to work through several different alternatives in divining the meaning.

    You may also want to check this out: Common Dream Symbols

    What Does It Mean If You See A Cat In a Dream?

    If you ever see a cat in your dream, you may wonder if it is a good sign or a bad sign. Cats are cute, furry creatures and it is often hard to associate them negatively. Below are some common cat dreams people can have and what they mean.

    1. When you dream about healthy cats

    Healthy cats in dreams can indicate that the dreamer has a healthy intuitive side, indicating that you should continue to listen to your inner self and make decisions based on your wisdom.

    2. When you dream about sick cats

    A sick cat may be a reflection of your health or a problem that you are dealing with internally. Dreaming about sick cats may indicate a disconnect between your intellect and intuition. So the dreamer may be struggling to remain connected to their true selves, or they may not even be conscious of who their true self are.

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    3. Kitten dreams

    dream about kittens meaning

    Dreaming about kittens may indicate that you’ve started a new project or that you’ve entered a fragile phase of your life that needs nurturing. If the kitten is meowing loudly in your dream, it could mean feelings of helplessness and inability to seek support.

    4. Dreaming of a black cat

    dream about black cat dream meaning

    Black cats are associated with both good and bad luck. They’re also the type of cat most closely associated with witchcraft and the occult.

    If you dreamt about a black cat, it could be a sign that you’re in danger of ignoring your intuition. This could cause you to hesitate when you need to be making important decisions.

    Some interpretations also hold that the cat could represent a real person in your life. This person could be about to cause trouble for you. So, be careful!

    A black cat may also mean that you have a hidden fear that is causing you to hesitate or hold back in a situation. It is a sign that you need to confront these fears and have greater self-awareness.

    5. What does it mean when you dream about white cats?

    Dreaming about white cats can indicate various symbolic meanings. White is often associated with purity, innocence, and spirituality, and these qualities may be reflected in your dream.

    A white cat dream may indicate positive changes, good fortune, or a sense of divine guidance.

    6. When you dream about an aggressive cat

    As we’ve seen, cats are often associated with females. So if your dream features aggressive cats, they may represent unhappy female figures in your life.

    If it attacks you, it could represent parts of you that are feminine. The fact that the cat is angry could mean that you’re struggling with this aspect of your identity in some way.

    7. When you dream of cats playing

    dream about cats playing

    Cats are well known for being playful creatures. If you see a playful cat or multiple playful cats in your dream, this may be a sign to relax in your own life. Perhaps your brain is telling you to emulate the cats – loosen up and enjoy life!

    Cats that are playing with prey are seen as an omen of good fortune. You could receive financial gains from a source you weren’t expecting.

    8. When you dream of saving cats

    dream about saving cats

    In dreams of saving cats, the animals could represent independence and authority over oneself. Dreaming of saving them, therefore, could be symbolic of your own attempts to assert your independence.

    Another possibility is that the cats are representing other people you’re concerned about. Maybe you feel they’re on the wrong path in life, and you need to take action to save them.

    9. What does it mean if I dream about a dead cat?

    Dreaming about a dead cat may signify the end of a certain aspect of your life or the need to let go of something that no longer serves you.

    See also: Owl in Dream: Full Dream Meanings and Interpretations

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    10. Dream about a cat attacking me

    dream of a cat attacking

    Being attacked by a cat in a dream may suggest hidden fears or insecurities that are manifesting in your subconscious. It could be a sign to confront and overcome these challenges.

    If a cat is biting you in a dream, this may suggest that you may be repressing sadness or anger in your waking life. These repressed feelings are possibly causing you to feel frustrated. This is a call for you to resolve your inner conflict.

    Dreaming about a cat scratching you may be reflective of a situation that you are in, that is causing you to feel threatened. There may be someone in your life with malicious intent that is causing significant unease.

    A dream about a wild cat attacking you may be a sign that you are not in control of yourself and the situation you are in.

    11. What does it mean when you dream about holding a cat?

    Dreaming about holding a cat indicates a desire for independence, nurturing instincts, or a need for companionship and comfort.

    Alternatively, holding a cat in a dream represents a connection to your intuitive and feminine side. The overall meaning hinges on personal associations and feelings during the dream.

    12. Dream about cats in the house

    cats in house dream

    Having a dream about cats in the house may mean that you might face some incoming disruptions to your personal life. While cats are independent and have a curious nature, they are also known to be mischievous creatures.

    Some cats may cause mischief by playing with various objects, breaking them, and causing a mess. So, if you see one trying to enter your home, it could signal that chaos is about to ensue.

    If it is a black cat that enters your house, this may be a warning to you that something bad is about to happen. You should be more careful and vigilant in your waking life.

    A stray cat entering your house is a reflection of instability or turbulence within your inner self or your life as a whole.

    13. Dreaming about a cat giving birth

    Dreaming about a cat giving birth symbolizes new beginnings, growth, or abundance in your life. This signifies that you are about to move into a new phase in life. You are likely to find joy during this period.

    14. What does it mean if you dream about a cat catching a mouse?

    cat catching a mouse dream

    A mouse can be seen as a menace or a challenge. If you dream about a cat catching a mouse, this could mean that you will likely overcome a challenge that has been setting you back. It may also be an indicator of achieving a sense of justice against those who did you wrong.

    Additionally, you will likely start to see success in the different aspects of your life such as finance, career, or love.

    What Do Cats Symbolize Spiritually?

    In spiritual dream symbolism, cats can represent various meanings, and interpretations may vary based on cultural, personal, and contextual factors. Here are some common spiritual interpretations of cats in dreams:

    1. Independence: Symbolize your desire for more autonomy in your waking life.
    2. Sensuality and Mystery: It symbolizes your connection with your sensual or mysterious side.
    3. Intuition and Psychic Abilities: Signify the development of your intuitive or psychic abilities. It could be a message to trust your instincts more.
    4. Feminine Energy: Symbolizes the feminine aspects of your personality or the influence of important women in your life.
    5. Symbol of Magic and Mystery: Indicates magical or mysterious elements at play that you need to pay attention to.
    6. Guardianship: A need for protection, guidance, or support in your life.

    However, do remember that these are only popular spiritual beliefs. Everyone’s dreams are unique and subjective to their waking life experience.

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    Psychological Dream About A Cat Meaning

    Psychological dream interpretation of cats involves examining the various aspects of the dream, including the cat’s behavior, emotions, and the context of the dream. Here are some psychological interpretations of dreaming about cats:

    1. Independence and Self-Reliance: Dreaming about cats can signify a desire for self-reliance or autonomy.
    2. Feminine Energy and Sensuality: Cats symbolize feminine energy, indicating a connection with the feminine side.
    3. Symbol of Unconscious Content: A cat appearing can represent elements of the unconscious mind surfacing, urging acknowledgment.
    4. Fear or Anxiety: A threatening cat may symbolize unresolved fears or anxieties needing attention.
    5. Companionship and Comfort: Positive cat interactions denote a need for emotional support and companionship.
    6. Adaptability and Flexibility: Observing a cat’s effortless navigation suggests the need for adaptability in handling life’s challenges.

    Remember that dream interpretations are highly subjective, and the specific details of the dream, as well as your personal associations with cats, play a significant role in understanding the psychological symbolism.

    Cultural Perspectives on Dreaming Of Cats

    Cultural perspectives on dreaming of cats vary widely, with diverse interpretations rooted in folklore, beliefs, and traditions across different societies. Here are summarized cultural perspectives:

    Ancient Egypt

    cats in ancient egypt culture

    Cats were revered in Ancient Egypt and associated with protection. Dreaming of a cat might symbolize blessings, guidance, or a connection with divine forces.

    Japanese Culture

    cats in japanese culture

    Cats, particularly the “Maneki-Neko” or beckoning cat, symbolize good fortune and prosperity. It is seen as an auspicious sign.

    Chinese Culture

    Cats are seen as symbols of luck and protection. Dreaming of a cat in Chinese culture may be considered a positive omen for good fortune.

    Native American Culture

    Some Native American tribes view cats as spiritual guides or symbols of independence. Dreaming of a cat may represent guidance from the spirit world.

    Other Dream Meanings of Animals

    If you liked reading this dream interpretation, here are also some other dream interpretations of other animals that you might be interested in:

    What Does It Mean If You Dream About A Dog?

    Dream About Birds Meaning

    What Does it Mean When You Dream about Rabbits?

    Dream About A Bear Meaning

    Conclusion

    Dream about cats is just as fascinating as its real-life counterparts, and they can represent anything from bad luck, and hidden fear to playfulness, or independence. The next time you see a cat in your dream, you may want to consider what they might reflect about your life.

    For more dream interpretations, try out ShutEye®. ShutEye features a free dream interpretation tool using artificial intelligence, to help you determine exactly what your dreams mean. This app also allows you to track your sleep cycles and record your dreams each night.

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