No, the belief in cats having nine lives is as unfounded as the superstition surrounding the luckiness or unluckiness of black cats.
These ideas, while intriguing, lack scientific basis. The myth of nine lives is rooted in cultural proverbs, such as the one stating, “A cat has nine lives. For three he plays, for three he strays, and for the last three he stays.”
Similarly, the notion that black cats bring either good or bad fortune is a superstition without empirical support. It’s crucial to approach these beliefs with a rational understanding, recognizing them as cultural myths rather than factual truths.
Myth About Cats Having Multiple Lives
The belief that cats have multiple lives is a very old and widespread one, but its exact origin is unknown. Some possible sources of the myth are:
- Ancient Egypt: The ancient Egyptians revered cats as sacred animals, and associated them with the goddess Bastet, who was depicted as a cat or a woman with a cat’s head. Bastet was the daughter of the sun god Atum-Ra, who was said to have nine lives. Some people think that the myth of cats having nine lives came from this connection.
- Magic number: The number nine has been considered a magic or lucky number in many cultures, as it represents completeness, perfection, or eternity. Some people think that the myth of cats having nine lives came from this symbolism.
- Cat Sìth: The Cat Sìth is a fairy creature from Celtic mythology, said to resemble a large black cat with a white spot on its chest. The Cat Sìth was believed to haunt the Scottish Highlands and to have the ability to steal the souls of the dead. Some people think that the myth of cats having nine lives came from this legend, as the Cat Sìth was also said to be a witch that could transform into a cat nine times.
Different cultures have different variations of the myth, and not all of them agree on the number of lives that cats have. For example, in some parts of Europe, such as Italy, Germany, and Spain, cats are said to have seven lives, while in Turkey and Arabic countries, cats are said to have six lives.
The Reality: How Long Do Cats Actually Live?
The average lifespan of a cat is about 15 years, but this can vary depending on many factors, such as breed, genetics, diet, environment, health, and whether the cat is spayed or neutered. Some of the factors that affect a cat’s lifespan are:
- Breed: Some breeds of cats tend to live longer than others, due to their genetic makeup and susceptibility to certain diseases. For example, Siamese and Persian cats are known to have longer lifespans than other breeds, while Manx and Ragdoll cats are known to have shorter lifespans.
- Diet: A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for a cat’s health and longevity. Cats need a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Cats also need fresh water and occasional treats. Overfeeding or underfeeding a cat can lead to obesity or malnutrition, which can shorten a cat’s lifespan.
- Environment: A safe and comfortable environment can also influence a cat’s lifespan. Indoor cats tend to live longer than outdoor cats, as they are protected from predators, diseases, parasites, traffic, and other hazards. Outdoor cats face more risks and stress, and may also get into fights with other cats or animals. However, indoor cats also need stimulation and enrichment, such as toys, scratching posts, and windows, to prevent boredom and depression.
- Health: A cat’s health can also affect its lifespan. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick prevention, and dental care can help prevent or treat common health problems in cats, such as kidney disease, cancer, diabetes, and dental disease. Spaying or neutering a cat can also reduce the risk of reproductive cancers and infections, as well as unwanted pregnancies and behaviors.
The True Meaning Behind the Myth
While cats do not have nine lives, they do have some amazing abilities that make them seem like they do. Some of these abilities are:
- Bounce back: Cats are very resilient and adaptable animals and can recover from injuries and illnesses that would be fatal to other animals. For example, cats can survive falls from great heights, thanks to their righting reflex, which allows them to twist their bodies and land on their feet. Cats can also heal from wounds and infections, thanks to their strong immune system and grooming habits.
- Agility: Cats are very agile and graceful animals, and can perform impressive feats of balance, coordination, and speed. Cats can jump up to six times their own height, run up to 30 miles per hour, and squeeze through small spaces. Cats can also use their whiskers, ears, eyes, and tail to sense their surroundings and navigate obstacles.
- Instincts: Cats are natural hunters and survivors, and have inherited instincts from their wild ancestors. Cats can use their sharp senses of smell, hearing, and vision to locate and catch prey, as well as to avoid danger. Cats can also use their claws, teeth, and vocalizations to defend themselves and communicate with other cats.
These abilities, along with their intelligence, personality, and charm, make cats wonderful and fascinating companions. While we may wish that our cats could live forever, we can appreciate and celebrate the time that we have with them, and do our best to provide them with a happy and healthy life.
