In certain regions of Spain it is believed that cats have seven lives, for example. ExcitedCats is reader-supported. Then I thought I would try again, so, without telling my mother, I put a deposit down on a kitten, but the seller was a scammer and it all fell through. Start by stapling the fabric to the top of the post, wrapping it around the post and stapling it to the bottom. This age-old enigma has perplexed us for generations, yet the answer is much more intriguing than youd imagine. They are able to come away from these perilous drops because of what is known as their "righting reflex." Do Muslims smoke? What do dog groomers use to make dogs smell so good? Pet cats were mummified and buried. Cats do not make it easy for us to figure them out. Do cats really have 9 lives? Cats who sleep in this position often have a regal air about them and enjoy being the center of attention. But in Spain, says Pet Plan UK, you'll hear that cats have seven lives (another number full of symbolic meaning), and Arabic and Turkish legends claim six lives. In many countries, they are believed to have nine lives, but in Italy, Germany, Greece, Brazil, and some Spanish-speaking regions, they are said to have seven lives, while in Turkish and Arabic traditions, the number of lives is six. [1], In Islamic tradition, cats are admired for their cleanliness. While there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that cats have seven lives, there are a few theories that could explain where the idea originated from. The story goes that Muhammad awoke one day to the call of prayer. Some regions around Spain believe that cats only have seven lives, while in other Arabic and Turkish legends, cats have six lives. How many of you have given your cats superpowers? She vividly remembers watching a black cat, with daunting green eyes, jumping into a mans mouth and suffocating him. Do cats have nine lives or seven based on popular belief? This period covers age 24-40 in human years.". Christine Brovelli-O'Brien, Ph.D., is a writer, STEAM educator, and long-time cat mom. He then smiled and gently stroked his beloved cat three times, giving all cats the ability to land squarely on their feet. Cat Nail Biting: What to Do If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper? While certain areas around the world believe that cats have multiple lives, the number nine is not universal. To your amazement, cats have nine lives is a myth. Cats are known for their agility and flexibility, which allows them to land on their feet even when falling from great heights. The site is also monetized with affiliate programs from LinkShare, CJ, ShareASale, and other networks, at no additional cost to you. Deter them from this behavior by cat-proofing your house, such as not placing tempting items like toys, treats and catnip in high places. Mimicry is when a dog mimics the behavior of another. In Islam, cats are considered to be clean animals and are thus generally well-respected. We may never know the exact origin of the myth. In other countries and cultures, the number of lives a cat is said to have differs. "All this adds up to an amazing survivorship. 10 REMARKABLE THINGS ABOUT CATSContinue. In certain regions of Spain it is believed that cats have seven lives, for example. This is likely due to their ability to escape dangerous situations unharmed. Keeping dogs for hunting, protecting livestock and guarding crops is allowed. I do not hide that the thought has crossed my mind here and there; somethings that cats do at times make you really think they are out to get you. The tail seems to help, but cats without a tail also have this ability, since a cat mostly turns by moving its legs and twisting its spine in a certain sequence. In many countries such as Germany, Spain and Turkey, the Common Belief is that cats actually have 7 lives. We do our best to help you better understand your cats, but the information on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Throughout history, cats have been said to have nine lives. Bastet had the ability to go back and forth between her human and cat forms, which is speculated to be the origin of the idea that cats have multiple lives. In my culture, theyre viewed as dirty and if I had even stroked one, I would have to shower. Within weeks of Milo moving in with us, my mothers attitude changed and now after three months, she has fully adopted him as her fifth child. Scorpio (October 23 November 21): The Scorpio cat is the true mystery of the zodiac. Original reporting and incisive analysis, direct from the Guardian every morning. In China, the number nine is considered to be lucky. The content presented on this site is meant for informational purposes only. The sun god Atum-Ra was said to take the form of a cat so he could visit the underworld. At Excited Cats, we regularly consult with licensed veterinarians and other industry experts. I used my religion to convince her. This theory is supported by the fact that cats have been known to survive falls from great heights and car accidents. They are confident and secure in their surroundings. notachadbro 3 yr. ago. All these quality are what makes cats truly unique. For example, in Arabic-speaking parts of the world, cats are believed to have six lives. But, its definitely something to think about. Sometimes, it has been seenas a symbol of completion or perfection. In 1732, Thomas Fuller wrote a book called Gnomologia: Adagies And . As a result, some people have linked the saying of cats having nine lives with this myththe eight gods, plus Atum-Ra, equal nine lives. In Turkish and Arabic legends, cats have six lives, while in some Spanish speaking regions, as well as in Brazil, Italy, and Greece, people believe that cats have seven lives. Why do cats use litter boxes and dogs don't? Yes indeed! In many countries such as Germany, Spain and Turkey, the Common Belief is that cats actually have 7 lives. As humans farmed and stored food, they attracted common prey for cats, such as mice and rats. Earlier this year, researchers announced the discovery of what they believe to be the world's oldest pet cemetery, with nearly 600 cats and dogs at one single Ancient Egyptian site. Learn how to build an easy, homemade DIY cat scratching post using items around your house! Despite being a myth, why do they say cats have nine lives? This is a question that has been debated by cat lovers for centuries. Keep on reading to find out. Cats are creatures of habit and their favorite sleeping position often reflects their unique personality. Our feline friends should be treated with the same level of respect that we would grant any other creature in nature, as cats are still animals. They might be grumpy creatures that would knock things over around the house, nestle and curl up on our laps when we're down, and sometimes even when we're busy! If you don't have one of those breeds, but your dog still acts like a cat, it might be because of a feline-canine cohabitation or even friendship. DragonHunter256 3 yr. ago. But, from what Ive heard and read, it seems like a possibility. Im not sure. Growing up I was always aware of this hostility. There is no scientific evidence to support either claim, so it is ultimately up to each individual to decide what they believe. Scientists even believe they have more chances of surviving falling from higher places than lower places because they have more time to properly fix their bodies during the fall to prepare for impact. Have you ever encountered this behavior from your cat? Others believe that it is because they are able to see in the dark and avoid danger. CAN THE BELIEF IN CATS HAVING 9 SOULS CHANGE THE WAY WE SEE THEM? The Egyptians saw their feline friends as divine creatures with supernatural powers. Atum-Ra was said to have given birth to eight other gods. One 2,500-year-old specimen scanned by French scientists in 2019 was found to be several different cats, with a textile ball in the place of the head. If you have observed a cat falling, you may have seen that they open its paws apart, forming a sort of parachute. In many cultures, seven is associated with good luck, so it makes sense that cats, which are often considered to be lucky animals, would be said to have seven lives. Lastly, believing that cats have 9 lives can also help people to be more compassionate towards others. Another theory is that the six lives myth is based on the fact that cats are relatively resilient animals. Gemini (May 21 June 20): The Gemini cat is the true social butterfly. Cats also have an extra flexible spine that allows them to move their bodies fast and in the most unique positions. Dammit Sabrina I told you to stay off reddit. And just like our own personalities, these traits can be linked to astrology. There is a way of saying that cats have nine lives in many cultures. Its possible that this belief in the mystical power of cats contributed to the idea that they had multiple lives. Your cat's back legs are so strong that they easily can leap six times their height! "They haven't lost their instincts to huntwhich means they can survive without human help. In this video, . Cats have 9 lives, and dogs dont because they have a long history that goes back to Ancient Egypt, including mythology. Have you heard about cats having nine lives? So, which is it? Christian is the Editor-in-Chief of Excited Cats and one of its original and primary contributors. For example, in some Native American cultures, the number nine is considered a lucky number. The domestic cat is a revered animal in Islam. So, while we dont know for sure if cats really do have nine lives, they certainly have a reputation for being able to cheat death in some pretty amazing ways. I am completely satisfied, I found useful information and tips in this article, Article was somewhat helpful, but could be improved. Learn how to create four different DIY cat beds that will provide your furry friend with a cozy space of her own & won't break your bank! However, there are a few theories about why cats may have nine lives belief is so popular. I mean, Ive never actually been reincarnated so I cant say for sure. Some people believe that dogs have one life, while others believe that they have multiple lives. Schrodinger's Experiment proves that cats do not have 9 lives. Your email address will not be published. However, the information found on Excited Cats should not be viewed as veterinary advice. Cats are just fascinating creatures, and theres always room for interpretation when it comes to their lives. Nevertheless, I still wanted a cat, and desperately needed my mothers approval, so she could allow me to buy a cat from a reputable source, without trying to acquire one clandestinely on the internet. While cats are skilled at survival, they are not invincible and can be injured or killed like any other animal. In Islam, cats are revered and respected. She cooks arguably the best chicken parmesan in the world, and also has impeccable taste in Bollywood music. According to authentic narrations, one may make ablution for prayer with the same water that a cat has drunk from. Dedicated cat lovers are so proud of the relationship they have with their cats, they embrace the term "crazy cat owners" with open arms. Since ancient times, people have observed cats surviving the most incredible falls and getting through incredible life-threatening situations. Food sampled by cats is considered halal, in the sense that their consumption of the food does not make it impermissible for Muslims to eat, and water from which cats have drunk is permitted for wudu (the ablution that is done by Muslims). You may think your cat has 9 lives. Read more here. The origins of the nine lives myth are unclear, but it is thought to date back to ancient Egypt, where cats were revered as gods. Your email address will not be published. The myth that cats have multiple lives exists in many cultures across the world, but it is not always nine lives. In the article, the author describes how she once found herself in the middle of the night, chasing a kitten around her house with a can of tuna. Why don't dogs and cats have belly buttons? A version of each of us lives in the minds of other people - from a person who briefly sees us out on the street, to our closest loves ones who know us for decades, and everyone in between. Do cats really have 9 lives? It's an age-old question that has been argued for centuries. What happens when blood sugar gets too high. But where did this idea come from? Across the U.S. there are almost 60 million pet cats, with around one in four households having a feline companion. By the time cats made their way to England, however, they were revered more for their ability to ward off rodents than to reincarnate. Nine has traditionally been considered a magic number, which could also help to explain why cats are associated with nine lives. While there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that cats have six lives, there are some interesting theories about why this belief exists. But its best to be on the safe side with thebest cat insurance plans. An old English proverb of unknown origin directly references the idea of cats having nine lives. In Hinduism, nine is considered a complete and divine number. Therefore, it is believed that cats have nine lives because they are considered to be lucky animals. This is a question that has been asked for centuries, and there is still no clear answer. Theres no way to know for sure, but its certainly an interesting theory. Theyre always doing their own thing and theyre never afraid to be different. They are also extremely quick at being able to react when danger presents itself.". In China, the number nine is considered to be lucky. One theory is that the belief originated with the ancient Egyptians, who revered cats as gods. The black and white cat was holding on with just one arm when it plunged around 30 feet, with crowds holding out an American flag in an effort to break its fall. This means cats can survive situations that other animals might not be able to, making them seem like they have more lives than most. The number nine holds significance in numerology, especially due to its composition of three groups of three, like the structure of the English proverb. Theyre also very affectionate and they love to cuddle. I sometimes think she loves him more than me. The idea that cats have nine or seven lives is a commonly held superstition in many cultures worldwide, and it has been popularized in literature, art, and media. Nonetheless, cats can still be injured or killed by a high fall. William Shakespeare uses the idiom in Romeo and Juliet which was written around 1595 (6). Few have made progress; many have, Read More CAN CATS SMELL CANCER? She has many furry friends and loves to talk about them and share curiosities, tips, and funny stories. Your pet can and will try to get them, so best to keep them out of sight or at a low profile. So, do I believe that humans have nine lives? For these reasons, I was never allowed near a dog and the idea of owning one never seriously crossed my mind. So, while science cant prove that cats have nine lives, it can certainly explain why the myth has existed for so long! However, they are still susceptible to disease and accidents, which can shorten their lives. Would they think that a cats life is just like a humans life, only with more lives? complete answer on seniorcatwellness.com, View So I tried my best to convince her. Image Credit: Ivanova N, Shutterstock Egyptian Gods The number nine may originate from ancient Egypt. There are a few benefits to believing that cats have 9 souls. What do you call someone with no siblings? Theyre always living in their own little world and theyre always chasing their dreams. Theres no right or wrong answer to this question, but its something to think about. In certain regions of Spain it is believed that cats have seven lives, for example. This position is relatively rare and is often seen in cats who are very relaxed and comfortable in their environment. However, there is no . Whenever we used to visit family and friends who owned cats, I would have to notify them half an hour in advance to hide them, in fear of my mothers reaction. While Muslims are completely free to live with cats, they must treat the cats well. Save my name & email in this browser for the next Cats have nine lives, according to popular belief. Reptiles, marsupials, and fish, in contrast, do not have belly buttons. is a question that has long perplexed cat lovers and scientists alike. All fields are required. Admired for their cleanliness, cats are considered "the quintessential pet" by Muslims. Another theory is that the number nine has been considered a lucky number in some cultures, and cats have been associated with good luck and mystical powers. Cats communicate subtly and quietly. Invest in a cat tree or condo as an outlet for their leaping and climbing skills. Meanwhile, some Turkish and Arabic legends say cats have six lives. There are feral cats all over the world. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Theyre also very passionate and they can be quite stubborn. Mercutio: Good King of Cats, I want to take one of your nine lives. While the idea of cats having nine lives may seem like an old wives tale, there is actually some science to back it up. The myth of cats having nine lives may have come from Ancient Egypt. They like their own space and can be a bit aloof. Although not meant in super seriousness, the proverb tells that: "A cat has nine lives. Why don't cats and dogs have belly buttons? Do Cats Have 9 Lives In Islam? The righting reflex, along with their flexible bones and ligaments, is how they are able to survive falls from huge heightsheights that would prove fatal for most other mammalian species, cementing the old saying that cats have nine lives. 3. Do cats have 9 lives? However, this is not actually true. Alderton-Sell explained that as cats mature, from age 7-10, they start to slow down a bit and put on weight. (Click to sign up>>Animalia.pet). 7+ REVEALING SIGNS, CAN A CAT BE EVIL? An old English proverb. Even our beloved Prophet (SAW) had a cat on his own, named Muezza, proving cats to be a special animal in Islam. In certain regions of Spain it is believed that cats have seven lives, for example. In the end, your cats life may not be nine times longer than other animals, but it can still be a long and happy one! Scientists call this righting reflex. The first known reference to the nine lives myth was in a book by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century. Have cats been blessed with nine lives? So, do cats really have seven lives? The number nine has held various significances in different cultures throughout history. While cats are often known for their agility and ability to escape danger, they are still vulnerable to injury and death like any other animal. ", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Islam_and_cats&oldid=1140161198, Short description is different from Wikidata, Wikipedia articles needing page number citations from November 2020, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 18 February 2023, at 19:22. [1], Cats have been venerated in the Near East since antiquity. I don't care who dies in a movie as long as the dog lives? Many superstitions and fantastic stories from many centuries ago surround cats. Do cats have nine lives, or do they really have seven? 9: vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, pain, mechanoreception (balance etc. So, the next time you see a cat, remember that it may be one of the nine lives! But we are going to follow the ancient Egyptians and say our cats have 9. Due to this reflex, cats can land on all four paws, making them survive very high falls. Now she does everything for him: cleans out his litter tray, feeds him and plays with him. They are thought to be ritually clean which is why they're allowed to enter homes and even mosques.. Historians have traced the importance of cats and the significance of the number nine to the ancient Egyptians, who considered cats sacred. Ive done the same thing with a can of wet food.) And more importantly, is there any truth to it? Theyre also fiercely independent and they like to do things their own way. No, cats do not actually have nine lives. In the end, there was only one approach that I knew could work. Required fields are marked *. Do Cats Actually Have 9 Lives? The Science Behind the Myth They love to be the center of attention and they love to be pampered. Finally, some people believe thatcats can see ghostsand other spirits. As a passionate fan of everything about cats, she is is more than happy to be the editor and provide content on what she is passionate about. Cat Nail Biting: What to Do If Your Cat Chews & Pulls His Claws, Why Is My Kitten So Hyper? If you love your cat but not the destruction they wreak on your furniture, you may be considering a DIY cat scratching post. Next, its time to put your post together. In complete contrast, I am an ailurophile. The latter is due to them not having a tight collarbone. It has been suggested that the idea of cats having nine lives has its roots in Ancient Egypt. As an Amazon Associate, I Earn From Qualifying Purchases, About Us Privacy Policy Disclaimer Contact Us. They love to be around people and theyre always the life of the party. Or believe they could see, smell, and predict things we cant? Well, shes not wrong. Your email address will not be published. No matter how spectacular their leaping skills are, keep in mind that cats are not indestructible and don't always land on their feet. No one can say whether cats can see ghosts or not, as there is no scientific evidence to support, Read More HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR CAT SEES A GHOST? Preparing to attend prayer, he began to dress himself; however, he soon discovered his cat Muezza sleeping on the sleeve of his prayer robe. In Islam, cats are viewed as holy animals. Arab countries tend to say that cats have six lives. In addition, cats earned the reputation of having nine lives because of their fast reflexes and ability to survive almost anything. Each time you make a purchase through one of our independently-chosen links, well receive a percentage of the proceeds. Some cats can tell you when something terrible is, Read More CAN CATS SENSE BAD ENERGY? All placental mammals like cats, which are mammals with placenta, technically have belly buttons. "But our cats are fearsome predators and survivors equipped physically with great tools such as the mid air reflex whereby they right themselves during a fall to land on all feet, their whiskers, which can determine whether a space is big enough for them or not and their ability to make themselves appear like liquid when they squeeze into small boxes or a tight space. Should you swerve to avoid hitting an animal? One is that it can give people a deeper appreciation and love for cats. Tybalt: "What wouldst thou have with me? Rather than wake her, he used a pair of scissors to cut the sleeve off, anything as long as the cat could remain sleeping undisturbed. The relationship between human and cat became beneficial for both specieshumans were providing food for the cats, and cats were stopping rodents from raiding human food stores. The ancient Egyptian goddess Bastet was depicted as half cat and half woman. She says that he is like a playful, charming teenager who doesnt answer back. Rather than wake her, he used a pair of scissors to cut the sleeve off, leaving the cat undisturbed. blood pressure, bladder stretch). Here is the truth about cats. The number of dog nipples depends on the breed, Dr. Chayasriwong says. Cats are pretty tidy creatures. She spams everyone with WhatsApp photos of Milo and texts me every couple of hours about how her favourite child is doing. However, while they are indeed quite resilient, it is not true that they can survive any fall or injury. They will leave home if treated badly. If someone outside of the family killed a cat, that person could be put to death. Start by drilling a hole through the center of your piece of wood. InGreek Mythology, the number 9 was oftenassociated with the goddesses of love and destiny, such as Aphrodite and Athena. In other cases, cats are viewed as powerful and wise creatures that can help protect their owners from harm. I could never play fetch with a dog, or get close to one. This is a question that I get asked a lot, and to be honest, Im not entirely sure what the answer is.
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