The Cat Sith stands out as one of the most intriguing creatures in the rich tapestry of Scottish folklore. Rooted in both Scottish and Irish mythology, the Cat Sith is depicted as a fairy taking the form of a large feline, often reaching the size of a dog. Distinctively, the Cat Sith is coal black, save for a solitary white patch adorning its chest. Legend recounts that this imposing cat typically walks on all fours when in the presence of humans, yet when unobserved, it is said to stride upright on its hind legs. In the vicinity of people, the Cat Sith is described as appearing with an arched back and bristled fur, seemingly asserting its dominance.
Fairy or Witch? The Dual Nature of the Cat Sith
However, the Cat Sith’s identity isn’t definitively confined to that of a fairy. The creature’s purported ability to walk on two legs has fueled alternative interpretations within local variations of the legend. Some believe the Cat Sith to be not a fairy at all, but a witch in disguise. This theory further posits that a witch could transform into a cat and revert to human form a limited number of times – specifically, nine. Should a witch transform into a cat for the ninth time, it was believed she would be permanently bound to that feline shape for eternity.
The Malevolent Side: Soul Stealing and Samhain
Regardless of its true essence, whether fairy or witch, the Cat Sith was generally regarded as a creature of ill intent, warranting distrust. A prevalent belief was that the Cat Sith possessed the power to steal souls lingering between the realms of the living and the dead. Consequently, these creatures were thought to frequent locations where burials were imminent, hoping to snatch these vulnerable, transient souls. To counteract this threat, a vigil known as Fèill Fhadalach was established. Guardians would watch over bodies awaiting burial and the souls they held. Their methods involved engaging in games, wrestling matches, music, dances, and riddle-telling – all aimed at diverting the Cat Sith and keeping it at bay until the burial was completed.
The festival of Samhain holds particular significance in Cat Sith lore. It was customary to leave a saucer of milk outside each home as an offering to the Cat Sith. This act was based on the belief that such a gift would appease the creature, leading it to favor the household and bestow blessings upon its inhabitants for the year ahead. Conversely, neglecting or intentionally omitting this offering was said to provoke the Cat Sith’s wrath. The curse would mirror the perceived slight: just as no milk was left for the Cat Sith, the household’s cows would suffer dry udders, depriving the family of milk as well.
From Myth to Modern Superstition: The Legacy of the Cat Sith
In contemporary understanding, the Cat Sith legend, particularly its physical description, is widely thought to be inspired by the Kellas cat. This feline is a hybrid resulting from the interbreeding of domestic cats and the Scottish wildcat, native to the Highlands. Moreover, the Cat Sith is now recognized as a significant source for numerous cat-related superstitions and mythical associations. These include the enduring idea of cats possessing nine lives and the connection of black cats to magic, Halloween, and their role as omens of misfortune. The Cat Sith continues to fascinate, bridging ancient folklore with modern-day beliefs about our feline companions.
