Printable Coloring Pages
Cats from Mythology and Legend Coloring Pages
Printable coloring pages of cats from the mythology and legends of different cultures.
Unleash your creativity and explore the fascinating world of mythical and legendary cats. From the Egyptian goddess Bastet, a symbol of home and protection, to the magical Celtic Cat Sìth, these pages capture the imagination of cat lovers and mythology enthusiasts alike. Journey through time and across cultures as you color enchanting depictions of ancient goddesses, guardians, and mystical felines. Whether you're drawn to the fierce Sekhmet, the lucky Maneki Neko, or the powerful Pakhet, each page offers a unique blend of art, history, and myth.
In Maya mythology, the term "Balam" represents jaguar deities revered for their protective qualities. The jaguar, a powerful symbol in Mesoamerican culture, was believed to be capable of traveling between worlds: the mortal realm, the underworld, and the celestial plane.
Balams served as guardians of the natural world, presiding over agriculture, rain, and fertility. They were also thought to protect communities from external threats. As spiritual figures, the Balams were closely connected to the earth, symbolizing the mysterious and powerful forces that govern life and death in the Maya worldview.
Bastet
Bastet coloring pages
(Egyptian Cat goddess)
Bastet is one of ancient Egypt's most beloved and enduring goddesses, revered as the protector of home, fertility, and childbirth. She is often depicted as a woman with the head of a lioness or a domestic cat, symbolizing her duality as both a fierce warrior and a nurturing guardian. Bastet's image is associated with joy, music, and dance, and she was believed to shield the home from evil spirits and diseases. Cats were sacred to her, and ancient Egyptians honored Bastet by keeping cats as pets, which also acted as protectors of the household. Her temple in Bubastis was a significant center of worship, drawing devotees from across the land. Today, Bastet remains an iconic symbol of the cat's revered status in ancient Egyptian culture, embodying both the grace and protective instincts of felines.
In Norse mythology, the goddess Freya is known for her chariot, which is pulled by two large cats named Bygul and Trjegul. Gifts from the god Thor, these cats symbolize Freya's grace and connection to the natural world. They embody the goddess's qualities of beauty, fertility, and love while also representing her fierce protection over those she holds dear. Freya's cats are a testament to the revered status of felines in Norse culture, showcasing their unique blend of power and elegance that mirrors the qualities of their goddess.
Cat Sìth (also known as Cait Sith) is a mythical creature from Celtic folklore, particularly in Scottish and Irish traditions. Often described as a large black cat with a white spot on its chest, it was believed to possess magical powers and was associated with fairies. According to legend, the Cat Sìth roamed the Scottish Highlands and was believed to have the ability to steal souls from the recently deceased before they could reach the afterlife. As such, people would take steps to guard the dead, hoping to prevent the Cat Sìth from interfering with the transition of their loved ones. The mysterious and elusive Cat Sìth continues to captivate the imagination, representing the magical and mystical allure of Celtic mythology.
Dawon, a sacred lion or tiger, is an important figure in Hindu mythology, often associated with the goddess Durga. Durga, the fierce and protective goddess, relied on Dawon as her trusted steed, using him to ride into battle against demons and forces of evil.
Dawon symbolizes courage, strength, and unwavering loyalty, embodying the protective spirit that complements Durga's divine power. His depiction alongside Durga is a powerful symbol of the triumph of good over evil and the divine protection that can be bestowed upon those who uphold righteousness.
In mythology and folklore, cats have long been regarded as familiars—spiritual companions to witches, often embodying wisdom, protection, and companionship. These relationships between witches and their feline familiars were based on mutual respect and trust, not on evil intentions. The image of the cat as a witch’s familiar highlights its role as a guide and confidant, offering support to those practicing benevolent magic.
In many traditions, witches were believed to connect with the spiritual world through their familiars, which served as extensions of their magical abilities. Cats, with their mysterious and intuitive nature, seemed to naturally fit this role, symbolizing the wisdom and agility needed for spiritual journeys. Rather than harbingers of evil, these mystical creatures were cherished for their loyalty, enhancing the power of their human counterparts.
Today, the association of cats as familiars continues to evoke a sense of mystery and wonder, reflecting the enduring bond between humans and their feline friends. This respectful portrayal acknowledges the ancient roots of this tradition and celebrates the unique role cats have played in the spiritual practices of cultures throughout history.
Goumang is a fascinating figure in Chinese mythology, revered as an ancient god of agriculture and plants. While lesser-known compared to other gods, Goumang holds a significant role as a symbol of fertility, growth, and the renewal of life. Often depicted in various forms, including that of a feline, Goumang represents the cyclical nature of seasons and the nurturing spirit of agriculture. His connection to cats highlights the symbolism of these animals as protectors of crops, embodying both the agility and wisdom needed to safeguard the fruits of the earth. Goumang’s legacy endures in tales and teachings that emphasize the importance of harmony with nature, making him a timeless symbol of growth and sustenance.
Black cats have long been shrouded in mystery and folklore, with a history that's often intertwined with the eerie atmosphere of graveyards and Halloween. In many cultures, black cats are linked to the supernatural, believed to be the companions of witches or spirits of the dead. The association between black cats and graveyards stems from old beliefs that they could cross between the living and spiritual worlds, guarding the resting places of the departed.
Mafdet coloring pages
(Egyptian cheetah goddess)
Maneki Neko, also known as the "beckoning cat," is a beloved symbol of luck and prosperity originating from Japan. This iconic figurine features a cat with one paw raised, appearing to invite good fortune and wealth into homes, businesses, and hearts around the world. The color and style of the Maneki Neko can vary, with each variation offering unique blessings. With its inviting gesture and cheerful demeanor, the Maneki Neko is a timeless charm that continues to inspire hope and optimism for those seeking fortune and success.
In Swahili culture, "Paka" refers to cats, which are integral to many folklore stories. In these tales, cats are often seen as mystical creatures connected with the spiritual realm and supernatural phenomena. Some stories depict them as protectors, while others suggest they might be linked to witchcraft, depending on the region and context. The association of cats with the supernatural emphasizes their mysterious and elusive nature, which has led them to be both revered and feared throughout various African cultures.
Paka's significance in Swahili folklore showcases the rich diversity of beliefs and legends surrounding cats in African mythology.
Pakhet coloring pages
(Egyptian lioness goddess)
Sekhmet coloring pages
(Egyptian lioness goddess)
Pakhet and Sekhmet are fierce and protective feline goddesses in ancient Egyptian mythology, both embodying the majestic and potent qualities of lions.
Pakhet is often referred to as "She Who Scratches," representing the hunting prowess and ferocity of the lioness. Known as a goddess of war and hunting, she was worshipped in the region of Middle Egypt, particularly in the Beni Hasan area. Pakhet is seen as a fierce protector, skilled hunter, and guardian of the desert lands.
Sekhmet is the lioness-headed goddess associated with war, vengeance, and healing. Often depicted as a woman with a lioness's head or fully as a lioness, she was believed to be a protector of pharaohs and a fierce force against evil. Sekhmet was thought to bring both pestilence and healing, embodying the duality of destruction and renewal.
Together, Pakhet and Sekhmet represent the formidable power and protective nature of the feline, symbolizing strength, courage, and fierce loyalty to those they safeguard.
Tezcatlipoca, one of the most prominent deities in Aztec mythology, is often associated with the jaguar, a revered animal in Mesoamerican culture. Known as the god of the night sky, hurricanes, and chaos, Tezcatlipoca embodies duality and unpredictability. His name translates to "Smoking Mirror," symbolizing his ability to see into the hearts and minds of people. Tezcatlipoca was often depicted with jaguar-like features, highlighting his connection to the powerful feline spirit, which the Aztecs believed could navigate the worlds of the living and the divine. As a deity, he represents transformation and the balance between destruction and renewal.
