Let's go back in time. We’re in Ancient Egypt, where the sun is hot, the pyramids are tall, and cats are... sacred. Yes, cats. Not just pets. They were treated like kings and queens. And each deceased person—sometimes even the cats—was wrapped up as carefully as a mummy! Odd? Maybe. But awesome, too. Here’s why.
Cats Aren't Just Pets
Ancient Egyptians believed that cats were magical creatures with unique abilities. Cats, according to Egyptian belief, could bring good fortune and shield their homes from rodents and snakes, which could endanger their food supplies.
A number of strong Egyptian goddesses were also strongly associated with cats. The most well-known of these was the goddess Bastet, who represented fertility, health, and protection and had a cat's head. Because people believed Bastet looked out for them, cats were loved and respected. Even accidentally killing a cat was a serious offence! After the death of their cat, some people even shaved their eyebrows to express their grief. The love was that intense. Surprising Egyptian cat myths like these can change your perspective on your pet. Mafdet, Sekhmet, and Mut were among the other feline deities who stood for justice, strength, and fierce protection. These deities demonstrated how cats were viewed as powerful and kind animals that could protect and care for their people.
A number of strong Egyptian goddesses were also strongly associated with cats. The most well-known of these was the goddess Bastet, who represented fertility, health, and protection and had a cat's head. Because people believed Bastet looked out for them, cats were loved and respected. Even accidentally killing a cat was a serious offence! After the death of their cat, some people even shaved their eyebrows to express their grief. The love was that intense. Surprising Egyptian cat myths like these can change your perspective on your pet. Mafdet, Sekhmet, and Mut were among the other feline deities who stood for justice, strength, and fierce protection. These deities demonstrated how cats were viewed as powerful and kind animals that could protect and care for their people.
Bastet, the cat-headed deity. Image source: Wikipedia
Cats and Mummies: A Sacred Bond
Occasionally, cats were mummified after they died, just like pharaohs and other notable individuals. This custom demonstrated how much Egyptians cherished their feline companions, both here on Earth and in the afterlife. Thousands of cat mummies have been discovered by archaeologists in special cemeteries, particularly in Saqqara and Bubastis, where people brought statues and offerings to honour their cherished felines. Mummifying cats was a way to honour their sacred power and guarantee that their protection persisted after death because cats were thought to possess divine energy.
Mummified cat on display in the Department of Egyptian Antiquities at the Louvre. Source: WikipediaFun African History Lessons for Kids
• The ancient Egyptian word for cat was "miu," which sounds like a cat’s meow!
• Cats helped protect crops by hunting rodents, which was crucial for farmers.
• Occasionally, wealthy Egyptians would feed their cats special foods like desert birds and Nile perch and dress them in gold jewellery.
• Attracting thousands of pilgrims, the city of Bubastis rose to prominence as a justification for worshipping Bastet and cats.
Why Does This Matter for Kids Today?
Learning about Ancient Egypt facts for kids helps us understand that history isn’t boring. It’s full of wild stories, deep beliefs, and yes... cats in gold necklaces. They are more than tomb stories. They provide insights into the ways that ancient Africans lived, loved, and prepared for eternity. When we explore them, we’re not just looking back. We are learning to view Africa's history from a new perspective.
Do you have a pet cat or know a cool cat story? If you could ask an ancient Egyptian cat goddess one question, what would it be? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
