Get

In Your Inbox

Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

I’m Dreaming About My Cat: The Meaning Behind This

woman sleeping in bed with her cat

If you find yourself dreaming about your cat, or any cat for that matter, rest assured that you are not alone. Cats can come to our dreams in a variety of ways. They might be in your vicinity, they may be cuddling up and looking cute, or they might even be trying to attack you!

However, the things happening in our dreams are not always as they seem. A cat attacking you in a dream likely isn’t about an attack at all, at least in the physical sense. Are you wondering what dreams about your cat might mean? Nobody can tell you exactly. However, we can take a look at what dreams are all about and some interpretations that might be representative of your own dreams about your kitty.

divider 3 paws

What Does It Mean to Dream?

People dream every night, even if most dreams are never recalled once awake. Although researchers study dreaming, dreams are still quite mysterious to even the most knowledgeable. The mysteriousness of dreams is perhaps what makes the idea of what they’re all about so interesting. Depending on which expert you’re talking to, the idea of what dreams are and why we have them can differ.

One reason there is still a barrier when it comes to understanding dreams is that dreams are often forgotten soon after waking. While brain activity can be monitored during sleep, there is no way to tap in and see what people are dreaming about. Those who dream are relied on to share their dreams accurately.

From what experts can gather, dreams are a way for the brain to think, remember, and categorize information in a biochemical state that is different than the state utilized during waking hours. The emotional and visual areas of the brain are predominantly used while dreaming. Linear and logical thinking tends to go out the window. So, dreams can mean various things, and they can sometimes mean nothing at all.

cat sleeping with owner
Image Credit by: masik0553, Shutterstock

divider single cat paw oct 2024

The 4 General Interpretations of Why You Might Be Dreaming About Your Cat

There are a few reasons why you might be dreaming about your cat, and the trick is to figure out what reasons are the most relevant to you and your personal circumstances. Do any of the following insights seem to resonate with you?

1. You’re Looking for More Independence

Cats are independent, and some psychologists believe that when humans have cat dreams, they’re doing so because they yearn for more independence and want to become less dependent on others. The cat can be a symbol of your independence, but so can any element of your dream, such as the actions, colors, and objects that stand out.


2. You’re Feeling Misled

Cats are known for being curious, and they’re thought by some to bring bad luck. With those ideas in mind, it’s possible that a dream about your kitty can mean that you are feeling deceived in some way. If your dream seems mysterious, shady, or nefarious, it could be that someone is lying to you, or you’re lying to yourself.

woman sleeping on bed with her cat
Image by: JulieK2, Shutterstock

3. Your Intuition Is Calling

Some believe cats are intuitive and can teach humans a lot about themselves and even the world around them. So, a dream you’re having about your cat may be more about something your intuition is trying to tell you. You may find hints in your dream that can lead you to the message your intuition has for you, such as the specific actions of your cat or how you interact with your surroundings.


4. You’re Exploring Your Feminine Energy

Felines have long been thought to represent feminine energy since they are typically mysterious, nurturing, and submissive animals. They tend to love attention and want to be affectionate with those they are closest to. Men must tap into their feminine energy to ensure deep emotional connections with friends and loved ones. So, if a cat in your dream is gracefully passing by, dancing, or wearing something feminine, chances are that your dream is telling you to tap into your feminine side.

boy-falls-asleep-and-hugs-his-cat-who-sleeps-with-him-under-the-covers
Image by: zhukovvvlad, Shutterstock

divider 1 paws

What Some Cat Dreams May Signify

Some dreams are associated with interpretations, whether due to culture, spiritual belief, or anecdotal evidence that people have the same types of dreams with the same perceived outcomes. Here are the most prevalent interpretations:

Dreaming of a Playful Cat

If your cat is being playful in your dream, it could be a sign of good fortune! A cat playing in your dream is a cue to work on being more lighthearted. A dream like this could mean that you’re taking life too seriously or that you need a break from the stresses of life. It might mean you are not enjoying life as much as you should. It could even signal that you should work on turning negative thoughts into positive ones.

Being Attacked by a Cat in a Dream

It can be unsettling to dream about your cat trying to attack you, especially if the reason for their aggression is unclear. However, this type of dream has nothing to do with your cat wanting to attack you in real life. Instead, it’s likely to mean that you are experiencing a fear of being assaulted, whether physically or mentally. The dream could also signify a lack of trust you have in someone.

Dreaming About Kittens

If you dream that your cat has kittens (even if they happen to be male), it may represent a sense of vulnerability in your awakened life. Kittens are different from adult cats in that they aren’t independent, self-assured, or self-reliant. So, watching kittens be born in your dream could mean that there is something in your life you need to protect or that you are feeling vulnerable and in need of protection yourself.

Man owner sleeping with a cat on a bed
Image by: NancyP5, Shutterstock

divider 2 cats

Keep in Mind That Dream Interpretations Aren’t Set in Stone

While interpretations of dreams about your cat can be intriguing and fun, it’s essential to keep in mind that they are not definitive answers for determining why you’re dreaming. A dream could mean one of multiple things, if anything at all. Still, by having interpretations to refer to, you can open your mind and learn more about what might be going through your head when you’re dreaming about your cat.


Featured Image Credit: Artbox, Shutterstock

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything cat

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.


How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.


Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

I’m Allergic to Cats But Want a Cat: 10 Vet Approved Tips On What to Do

Allergies are not only unpleasant to deal with, but they’re incredibly frustrating, too. If you want nothing more than a pet cat but...

Having a (Not So) Blast on the Fourth of July: Dr. Lauren’s Tips

Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two adventurous cats, Pancake and Tiller. When the 4th...

Dwarfism in Cats: Causes & Care Tips (Vet-Verified)

Different cat breeds are predisposed to certain genetic conditions, and knowing which conditions your cat may be prone to can help you prepare...

Is Aglaonema Toxic to Cats? Vet-Verified Houseplant Advice

House plants are a fantastic way to give your home some life, so much so that many people have taken up the role...

More related

The ASPCA’s Los Angeles Feline Foster Program

My husband and I have been fostering kittens for our local shelter for about five years, and we absolutely love it. The kittens...

13 DIY Cat Castles You Can Make Today (With Pictures)

Almost every cat believes they are the king or queen of the household, so why not give them an actual castle to rule?...

Purina Cat Chow Naturals Food Review of 2026: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary Purina Cat Chow Naturals Dry Cat Food is a premium cat food from a company well known for making high-quality food...

Will My Cat Get Diarrhea After Changing Food? Vet-Approved Nutritional Transition Facts & Advice

There are many reasons you might decide to change your cat’s food. Maybe your vet recommends a special diet to address your kitty’s...

Keep reading

Can Cats Choke on Hairballs? Vet Approved Signs & How to Help Them

Though watching and hearing a cat coughing up a hairball is a pretty unpleasant and even disturbing experience if you’re new to cat parenting, it’s not unusual for cats to expel hairballs in this manner. But can cats choke on...

cat hairball

What Do the PrettyLitter Colors Mean? Explanation with Color Chart

Staying on top of your cat’s health can be difficult, even if you religiously take your pet to the veterinarian for regular checkups and dental care. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and conditions like kidney tubular acidosis or the presence of...

pretty litter

Can Cats Eat Macadamia Nuts? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

There’s no denying that macadamia nuts are a delicious treat for us humans, and you might even find your cat is interested in them. While these are a good, albeit high-calorie, snack for people, macadamia nuts should not be fed...

Can Cats Eat Macadamia Nuts

Can Cats Eat Bagels? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Bagels are delicious breakfast staples enjoyed by people around the world. To create this wondrous deliciousness, bakers make dough, let it rise, and then shape it into bagels. The rounds are then boiled and baked. But can cats eat bagels?...

Can Cats Eat Bagels

Purina Pro Plan Cat Food Review of 2026: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary Purina Pro Plan Cat Food is full of recipes that your feline friend is sure to love. With several lines and flavors to pick from, even the pickiest of eaters will love to eat these foods. The lines...

Purina Pro Plan Wet Cat Food Review

How to Help Control Fleas in Feral Cats: 5 Vet-Approved Tips & Tricks

Most feral cats have difficult lives; one common problem they face is being infested with fleas. The parasites can be quite dangerous and lead to other diseases, which is why feral cats with fleas need our help. This article includes...

Beige or cream coloured cat scratching its ear

How Do Cat Eyes Work? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

If you’re wondering why your cat has such an air of self-importance and superiority about them, it might be because their senses are so powerful and complex that they consider us mere humans simply inferior—and rightly so! Did you know...

Scared cat with wide eyes looking at you

Do Cats Need to Fast Before Having Surgery? What You Need to Know!

When a cat needs surgery, owners have several questions about how they can prepare them for the upcoming procedure. One of the most common questions is about fasting before surgery. In short, cats typically do need to fast before surgery...

cat and owner and vet