In some cultures people believe that cats have multiple lives. In many countries, they are believed to have nine lives, but for instance in Spanish-speaking regions they are said to have seven lives. Cats have been tagged with many different attributes, which differ from country to country, such as ability to predict the weather or healing powers. In some cultures they have been worshiped, but also in others cats are perceived as signs of bad omen and bringers of bad luck.
In Europe in medieval times cats were exterminated due to common believe that cats were witches' familiars used to increase a witch's powers. Ostensibly killing of cats caused an increase in the rat population. Fleas that they were carrying spread The Black Plaguewas.
The killing of cats in Medieval Ypres is commemorated in the cat parade - Kattenstoet.
Do you have a cat? Write about your pet.
