Cat-sìth

Page 158 illustration in More English Fairy Tales

Cat-sìth or Cat-sídhe is a mythical creature from Celtic mythology, often associated with the Scottish Highlands, but also found in Irish mythology. The Cat-sìth is typically described as a large black cat with a white spot on its chest, not unlike the description of a domestic cat but of a significantly larger size and with mythical abilities. The legends surrounding the Cat-sìth suggest it could be a witch that transforms into a cat nine times, but on the ninth transformation, the witch would remain a cat forever.

Origins and Legends

The origins of the Cat-sìth myth are deeply rooted in ancient Celtic beliefs and folklore. The Celts, with their strong spiritual connection to the natural world, often attributed magical qualities to animals, and the cat was no exception. Cats were seen as guardians of the Otherworld, possessing mystical powers and the ability to move between worlds.

One of the most famous legends involving the Cat-sìth is its role during Samhain, a Gaelic festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It was believed that during Samhain, the Cat-sìth would bless any house that left a saucer of milk outside for it to drink, but curse those who did not. This legend highlights the Cat-sìth's dual nature as both a benevolent and malevolent entity.

Characteristics

The Cat-sìth is often described as a large black cat with a distinctive white spot on its chest. Its size is larger than a normal cat, with some accounts describing it as being as large as a dog. The Cat-sìth is also attributed with supernatural abilities, including the power to become invisible, to curse or bless households, and to communicate with the dead.

Cultural Impact

The Cat-sìth has had a significant impact on Scottish folklore and Irish folklore, influencing Halloween customs and contributing to the widespread Celtic tradition of leaving saucers of milk outside for wandering spirits and fairies. The myth of the Cat-sìth also reflects the complex relationship between humans and cats in history, oscillating between reverence and suspicion.

In Popular Culture

In modern times, the Cat-sìth has appeared in various forms of media, including literature, video games, and television. It often serves as inspiration for characters and creatures that embody its mysterious and dual nature, bridging the gap between the natural and supernatural worlds.

See Also

• Celtic mythology
• Scottish folklore
• Irish folklore
• Samhain
• Witchcraft in folklore and mythology