SIBERIAN CAT MYTHS & LEGENDS: Unraveling the Mystique

Cats have been surrounded by myths, superstitions and folklore for centuries. From witches and weather prediction to healing powers and bad luck, these beliefs reveal as much about human history as they do about cats themselves. Below, we separate cat myths from reality, with special attention to Siberian cats.

DO SIBERIAN CATS REALLY HAVE NINE LIVES?

Short answer: No. They have one life, not nine.

Where the “Nine Lives” Myth Comes From

The belief that cats have multiple lives dates back thousands of years:

• Ancient Egyptians revered cats as sacred protectors and believed they possessed divine qualities.

• Cats often survived falls or accidents that would seriously injure other animals, reinforcing the idea of supernatural resilience.

• The number nine has long been considered symbolic or magical in many cultures, adding to the myth.

Different regions tell the story differently:

• Spanish-speaking cultures often say cats have seven lives

• Some Arabic and Turkish traditions say six lives

The Reality for Siberian Cats

Siberian cats are strong, agile, and physically resilient, thanks to their powerful build and athletic nature. However, despite their impressive abilities, Siberians are just as mortal as any other cat and rely on good care - not mythical extra lives - to stay safe and healthy.

DO SIBERIANS ALWAYS LAND ON THEIR PAWS?

Short answer: Not always - but many can, thanks to a natural ability called the righting reflex.

What Is the Righting Reflex?

The righting reflex is a Siberian’s instinctive ability to reorient its body while falling so its paws face downward before landing. This reflex relies on:

• A highly flexible spine

• Strong core and leg muscles

• An excellent sense of balance and spatial awareness

Siberian cats, in particular, often excel at controlled movement due to their muscular bodies and excellent coordination, but the reflex is present in all healthy cats.

How Cats Twist in Mid-Air

When a cat begins to fall, it can:

1. Rotate its head to face downward

2. Twist the front and back halves of its body independently

3. Extend its legs to slow the fall and prepare for landing

Scientists have studied this movement using high-speed cameras and motion-capture technology, helping researchers understand the physics of feline motion. This research has even influenced robotics and engineering, particularly in balance and recovery systems.

Important Safety Fact: Height Matters

The righting reflex requires enough time and distance to work properly.

• If a fall is too short, the cat may not have time to rotate fully

• Short falls can actually be more dangerous than longer ones

• Injury risk depends on the cat’s size, flexibility, age, and health. Even agile breeds like Siberians can be injured by falls, especially indoors where distances are unpredictable.

Final Takeaway

• Siberians do not have nine lives

• Siberian cats are athletic and resilient, but not invincible

• The righting reflex is real - but not foolproof

• Prevention, safe environments, and proper care matter more than myths.

CATS AND WITCHES

Myths - Cats are connected to witches and dark magic.

Reality - During the European witch hunts, cats - especially black cats, were believed to be witches' familiars: supernatural helpers thought to assist in dark arts. This fear led to the persecution and killing of countless cats. Today, historians recognize this belief as superstition rooted in fear rather than fact.

DO BLACK CAT BRING BAD LUCK?

Black Siberian Cat

Myth - Black cats bring bad luck.

Reality - In many Western cultures, black cats were associated with witches and the devil during the Middle Ages, giving rise to the bad-luck myth. However, this belief is far from universal. In several cultures, black cats are symbols of good fortune, protection and prosperity.

CATS CAN STEAL A BABY'S BREATH?

Myth - Cats can steal a baby's breath while it is sleeping.

Reality - This old wives' tale likely developed because cats are drawn to warmth and may curl up near a baby. In rare historical cases, accidental suffocation may have occurred, reinforcing the superstition. There is no scientific evidence that cats intentionally harm babies. Experts simply recommend supervising all interactions between pets and infants to ensure everyone's safety.

ARE CATS ALOOF AND UNAFFECTIONATE?

Myth - Cats do not form strong emotional bonds.

Reality - Siberians can be deeply affectionate and loyal. They express love differently than dogs through purring, kneading, slow blinking and following their humans from room to room. Siberian cats, in particular, are known for their social and people-oriented personalities.

CAN CATS PREDICT THE WEATHER?

Myth - Siberians can forecast storms and rain.

Reality - In maritime folklore, sailors believed cats grooming themselves signaled rain, and frisky behaviours indicated storms. While cats may react to changes in air pressure or humidity, there is no scientific proof that they can accurately predict the weather.

DO CATS HAVE SUPERPOWERS?

Myth - Cats possess supernatural abilities.

Reality - Cats have long been associated with the mystical. In ancient Egypt, they were revered as protectors, while medieval Europeans view them as omens. These beliefs likely arose from cats' keen senses, agility and mysterious behaviours rather than any supernatural power.

DID THE ABSENCE OF CATS WORSEN THE BUBONIC PLAGUE?

Siberian Cats are Skilled Mousers

Myth - Cats had nothing to do with the plague.

Reality - During the 14th century Black Death, widespread fear and superstition led to the killing or abandonment of cats. With fewer cats to control rodents, rat populations exploded. Fleas carried by these rats spread Yersinia pestis, the bacteria responsible for the plague. Historians believe the absence of cats contributed to the severity of the outbreak by removing a natural form of pest control.

DO CATS HAVE HEALING POWERS?

Myth:  A Siberian's purr can cure illness.

Reality: In Russian folklore, Siberian cats are sometimes believed to have healing powers, with purring thought to relieve pain or illness. While purring can be smoothing and stress reducing, there is no scientific evidence that it heals medical conditions.

CAN CATS HAVE A NEGATIVE EFFECT ON THE LOCAL WILDLIFE?

Myth - A Siberian, allowed outdoor, is harmless to wildlife.

Reality - Studies show that outdoor cats kill billions of birds and small animals annually in North America. Even well-fed Siberians will hunt instinctively. While some argue cats help control rodents, responsible ownership - such as spaying, neutering and using enclosed outdoor spaces like catios - help balance feline enrichment with wildlife protection.

DO CATS BRING GOOD FORTUNE?

Myth - Cats, including Siberians, are unlucky.

Reality - In Japanese culture, the Maneki-neko, or "beckoning cats," is a well-known symbol of good luck and prosperity. Many cultures view cats as guardians of wealth, homes and happiness.

CAN SIBERIAN CATS SURVIVE EXTREME COLD?

Avatar - Our Senior Stud

Myth - Siberian cats are immune to cold weather.

Reality - Siberian cats are well-adapted to cold climates, thanks to their dense fur and muscular build. However, they are not immune to extreme cold and should always be kept indoors in harsh weather conditions.

This Mindeelyn Kitten Decided It Did Not Like Supper

ARE SIBERIAN CATS SILENT?

Myth - Siberian cats rarely vocalize.

Reality - Siberian cats are known for their vocal nature. While not overly loud, they use meows, chirps, trills and body language to communicate with their humans.

ARE SIBERIAN CATS GUARDIANS OF THE HOME?

Myth - Cats offer no protective presence.

Reality - In some cultures, Siberian cats are believed to ward off negative energy and protect households. This belief likely stems from their historical role as skilled mousers and vigilant companions.

CATS AND HARVEST PROTECTION

Myth - Cats are only pets, not workers.

Reality - For centuries, cats have protected farms and grain stores by controlling rodents. In many cultures, a healthy farm cat symbolizes abundance and a successful harvest.

Their role blends practical pest control with folklore tied to prosperity.

DO CATS AND DOGS EVER GET ALONG?

Myth - Cats and dogs cannot live together peacefully. 

Reality - Contrary to the popular saying "fighting like cats and dogs," these two species can form strong bonds when introduced properly, especially at a young age.  Puppies and kittens are naturally curious, making it easier to adapt to one another's presence and behaviours. With patience, positive reinforcement, and gradual introductions, dogs and cats can learn to coexist peacefully—and even become the best of friends.  

Zoey Sleeping Protected by Two Siberians 

Above is a picture of our Shih Tzu, Zoey, when she was a puppy. At that time, we had no idea she was autistic and struggled with anxiety.  She needed constant comfort, and we spent countless hours holding her to make her feel secure. Whenever we tried putting her down, she would become visibly anxious and refuse to sleep alone. Remarkably, our cats seemed to sense her need for reassurance.  One or two of them would always cuddle up beside her, providing the warmth and comfort she craved.  With their gentle companionship, she was able to relax and rest peacefully.

WHY DO CATS LOVE BOXES?

Two Siberian Cats Hardly Fit into this Box

Myth - Cats like boxes only for play. 

Reality - Cats are instinctively drawn to enclosed spaces because boxes provide security, warmth and a sense of control. Boxes also support territorial behaviour, stress reduction and mental stimulation.

CONCLUSION: Separating Cat Myths from Reality

The myths and legends surrounding Siberian cats reflect centuries of admiration, fear and fascination. While many beliefs are rooted in superstition, the reality shows cats to be intelligent, affection and essential companions. Understanding the truth behind these myths allows us to better appreciate cats for what they truly are.