Dreaming of a cat
The psychological view
The cat is an animal that stays close and still keeps its own space. In a dream it is therefore often linked to the balance between closeness and independence. Whether the cat comes to you or keeps away can lead you to think about distance in your own relationships.
Dream research shows that animals and characters in dreams are often tied to a person's everyday interests (Source 1). If you have a bond with a cat in real life, it makes sense to read the dream cat first through that bond.
Variations
A black cat
A black cat relates to the sense of mystery the colour brings. Whether it stirs fear or curiosity in you sets the reading.
A kitten
A kitten connects to caring for someone or needing protection. Think about whom or what you look after.
A cat scratching you
A scratch describes the feeling that a boundary was crossed. Is there a situation lately where you need to guard your limit?
Feeding a cat
Feeding a cat shows an area where you give, or want to give, affection. Were you the one feeding or the one waiting?
Ask yourself
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Keep reading
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How do you keep a dream journal? A plain guide from putting a notebook by the bed to noting feelings and tracking recurring symbols. Start today.
How to Interpret Your Dreams: A 5-Step Method
How do you interpret a dream? Start with the feeling, then add context, the key image and the questions to ask yourself, in five plain steps.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean to dream of a cat?
A cat does not tie to a single meaning. It is often linked to themes of independence and affection; your feeling in the dream sets the meaning.
Does the meaning change if I own a cat?
Yes. If you have a bond with a cat in real life, reading the dream cat first through that bond is more accurate.
How do I record a cat dream in a journal?
Write the cat's colour, its behaviour and the feeling you woke with. If it returns, these give you something to compare.
Sources
- Palgrave Macmillan (2018). Researching Dreams: The Fundamentals
- Consciousness and Cognition (2003). Continuity between waking activities and dream activities