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
Het meest bizarre moment met mijn black beauty/halloween/mysterieuze beauty Janey was dat ze als een bezetene (ik denk dat een mysterieuze entiteit van haar bezit nam😼) heel mijn woonkamer door rende, naar boven dus trap 1 en door naar zolder trap 2, weer terug denderde met alle kabaal van dien weer terug naar beneden en dit deed ze nogmaals hetzelfde rondje huis inclusief trappen en toen stopte in eens in 1x beneden, zat ze stok stil rechtop naar boven te staren. En ik die verbouwereerd bij mijn eettafel stond te kijken wat ze deed en waar ze heen keek. Scary he! Dit was tevens vorige week niet lang geleden! Bizarre minuten kan ik jullie wel vertellen!🙀