What would Halloween be without cats? Their piercing gaze and mysterious presence have made them a symbol of this enchanting night for centuries. But did you know that Halloween wasn’t always about “scary things”? Behind the pumpkins, candles and cobwebs lies an ancient ritual filled with stories about nature, the balance between light and darkness, and yes, about cats too. In this blog, you’ll discover how cats came to play a starring role in the history of Halloween, what the celebration truly means, and how you can enjoy it together with your cat.
The origin of Halloween: where it all began
Long before there were pumpkins and costumes, the Celts celebrated Samhain on October 31: a transitional festival between summer and winter. They believed that on this night the boundary between the world of the living and the dead became thinner.
💡 Spirits could then return briefly, so people lit candles to protect themselves.
Cats were also seen as guardians of the unknown: beings that could move between worlds. Their nocturnal behavior and mysterious gaze made them the perfect symbol for everything unexplainable. Thus, the ancient link between cats, magic, and Halloween slowly emerged.
Witches, superstition and cats: a centuries-old connection
During the Middle Ages, the mystical image of cats took on a darker edge. People believed that witches kept cats (especially black cats) as companions — and could even transform into cats themselves to roam the night unseen.
This superstition spread rapidly in Europe. Cats became a symbol of the unknown, of magic, and sometimes of fear. Cats became a symbol of the unknown, of magic, and sometimes of fear. Fortunately, we now know better: cats are not dark creatures, but smart, intuitive animals that perfectly fit the mysterious atmosphere of Halloween.
Curious to know why black cats bring good luck?
Read also: Black cats bring good luck
Today's Halloween: a mix of spookiness and coziness
Nowadays, Halloween is not just about fear, but about creativity and fun. Pumpkins on the windowsill, a mug of hot chocolate, and a cat curiously looking outside as if it sees ghosts.
This is how you celebrate Halloween together with your cat:
- Create a cosy corner with a blanket, cat tree and some Halloween decorations
- Use safe decorations (avoid real candles or toxic plants)
- Play with light. Cats love chasing shadows!
- Snap a photo of your cat and tag @rhr_pets
Why Halloween isn’t complete without cats
From ancient rituals and witch tales to horror films and sweet treats: cats belong to Halloween like the moon belongs to the night. Their mysterious behaviour, quiet gaze and cheeky charm make the evening just that bit more thrilling. So light a candle, give your cat a comfy spot, and enjoy the spookiest night of the year together.
Fancy joining our Halloween giveaway?
Then share the most bizarre moment with your cat in the comments below!
11 comments
C’était il y a quelques années avec mon chat précédent, tout noir d’ailleurs. Je vis seule dans une maison très ancienne. A l’époque mon divan était positionné au milieu de mon salon. J’étais dans le divan, en train de regarder la tv, ma Leeloo endormie en boule sur mes genoux. D’un coup, d’un seul, elle se redresse et regarde par dessus mon épaule, les yeux grands écarquillés et elle ne bouge plus d’un millimètre… 😰 Je n’ai jamais osé me retourner pour voir ce qu’elle voyait… 😂 J’ai attendu que ça passe et qu’elle se recouche sur mes genoux. Aujourd’hui encore je reste persuadée qu’elle voyait “des choses” invisibles pour nous, êtres humains. 👻
Onze Sukke, maar ook Okkie kijken soms naar n punt, heel lang. Starend! Ik kijk naar t zelfde punt en zie niets.
En onze Roefke ging bij mijn stervende moeder liggen, de hel nacht lang hij bij haar gezicht, toen zij haar laatste adem uitblies, gaf hij haar n kopje ging naar boven en is al die tijd niet meer beneden geweest,
Toen onze Potsy zwart wit, overleed ging ik zaterdags bloemen en boodschappen kopen op de terug weg volgde mij een zwart witte kat. Hij is nooit meer weg gegaan Hannes
Groetjes Frederieke, n groot kattenvriend