Tortoiseshell cats are the queens of the feline realm. Their dark and coppery coat, along with their typically unique yellow-orange-green eyes, sets them apart from any other cats.
Have you ever wondered what these gorgeous cats represent in the spiritual world, in dreams, and whether there are any superstitions about them?
How To Recognize A Tortoiseshell Cat
Tortoiseshell cats are frequently mistaken for calico cats, but we should not mix up perceptions with terminology. Tortoiseshell cats have a combination of black and orange fur (sometimes with small white spots), while calico cats always have three colors – white, orange, and black – which gives them a very distinct appearance, and which are very prominent.
Torties typically have this coat that is predominantly black with patches or stripes of orange, resembling a canvas splattered with orange paint. Their unique coat makes them easily recognizable, and distinguishing them from calico cats is extremely easy.
Tortoiseshell and calico cats share one common characteristic, though – the overwhelming majority of them are female, with only a 0.01% chance of encountering a male cat from these breeds.
Why Are Tortoiseshell Cats Called “Tortoiseshell”
Tortoiseshell cats are called “Tortoiseshell” because of their coat pattern that resembles the colors and patterns seen on a tortoise’s shell.
Spiritual Meaning
In a spiritual context, tortoiseshell cats symbolize harmony, hope, and illumination during times of darkness. The inclusion of orange amidst their predominantly black fur serves as a symbol for a guiding light or celestial body within the vast expanse of the nighttime sky.
Torties are also sometimes called cat goddesses because they represent, as far as spirituality is concerned, feminine power, motherhood, and all that goes with it.
Harmony
The combination of black and orange represents the union of opposites, yin and yang, up and down, sweet and salty—creating a harmonious whole. This balance is often associated with the natural world and the cyclical nature of life.
Tortoiseshells are here to teach us that every situation has two perspectives, and even in darkness, there is always a glimmer of light, just like their black coats adorned with vibrant orange spots.
Good News
Tortoiseshell cats are often regarded as symbols of good fortune, happiness, and achievement in various societies. It is widely believed that encountering one of these felines is an auspicious sign, indicating the arrival of something fortunate.
If you happen to see a tortoiseshell cat before an important interview or making a big decision, it could be a sign that you will receive positive news.
Feminine Energy
Similar to calico cats, due to their predominantly female population, tortoiseshell cats are often associated with feminine energy. In ancient Egyptian mythology, cats were highly respected and associated with the goddess Bastet. She represented fertility, home life, and protection.
The term “feminine energy” does not always refer to women. Each person, regardless of gender, has both feminine and masculine energies. So, if you are a man who experiences difficulties with anger or aggression, having a Tortie pet could aid in finding peace and harmony. Likewise, for women who tend to display aggression or feel more traditionally “masculine,” owning a Tortie would be an ideal choice.
Good Fortune
Calico and Tortoiseshell, two breeds of cats, have long been connected to symbols of good fortune and luck. This ancient belief has persisted throughout history, although the precise reasons behind it remain unknown.
For instance, in the past, calico and tortoiseshell cats were brought on board Japanese ships by sailors who believed that they could protect them from sea spirits and other dark creatures.
Intuition And Sensitivity
Tortoiseshell cats are believed to be some of the most intuitive cats (along with calico cats.) They are thought to be in tune with subtle energies and capable of perceiving things beyond the ordinary human senses. While all cats, as well as other animals, possess intuition, Torties are thought to have an exceptionally developed intuition.
Superstitions
Although there is not as much superstition about tortoiseshell cats as black cats, there are some:
- Pregnancy Foreteller: Due to their strong association with femininity and maternal instincts, it is believed that when a tortoiseshell cat suddenly appears or approaches someone, it signifies the announcement of a pregnancy. This superstition suggests that the presence of a tortoiseshell cat brings news related to impending motherhood.
- Bringers of Good Luck: Tortoiseshell cats are believed to bring prosperity, good fortune, and luck. In Japan, they are believed to bring good fortune to their owners and are especially cherished as pets (along with tri-color cats.)
- Guardians Against Evil Spirits: In Celtic folklore, tortoiseshell cats were believed to have the ability to ward off evil spirits. They were often kept in homes as protective guardians.
- Weather Forecasters: An old Slavic superstition suggests that if a tortoiseshell cat washes its face with its left paw, it is a sign of impending good weather.
Dream About A Tortoiseshell Cat
Dreams that involve animals, in general, hold symbolic significance. It’s not solely our affection for animals that drives this, but rather their innate connection to the spiritual realm.
When it comes to these beautiful creatures with black and orange coloring, having dreams about a tortoiseshell indicates that you should pay more attention to your intuition and quiet your ego.
Change and Transformation
If you have a dream where you see a tortoiseshell cat, it could mean that there is going to be a significant change or transformation in your life soon. The presence of this particular cat symbolizes femininity, motherhood, and harmony, so this change could be related to one of these aspects and have a profound impact on your life.
Embracing Balance
Dreaming of a tortoiseshell cat could be a reminder to seek balance in your life. It may encourage you to acknowledge and integrate opposing forces or energies within yourself or in your external circumstances.
Trust Your Intuition
Given the association of tortoiseshell cats with heightened intuition, encountering one in a dream may be a message to trust your gut and inner voice.
Bottom Line
When Tortie comes to mind, I imagine a beautiful cat with a stunning two-tone coat resembling a masterpiece. This cat embodies the epitome of femininity, motherhood, and sensitivity. She is like a divine entity, bestowing upon us not just love but also joy and prosperity in abundance.
If you desire to attract abundance into your life, achieve emotional balance, or simply have the pleasure of living with an enchanting companion, consider welcoming a tortoiseshell cat into your home. You will not be disappointed by this decision!
