The spiritual meaning of dreams about a cat running away can be traced back to ancient Egypt and beyond. Many ancient civilizations had a great respect for cats as a symbol of the feminine aspect, which was associated with Goddess energy. This kind of energy is nurturing, healing and soothing.
In Egyptian mythology, Bastet was the cat Goddess who was believed to cure diseases and protect against evil. But what does it mean that a cat would run away? What do our dreams tell us when we see this image? Are there lessons in the symbolism we can apply to our own lives? Are there things we should avoid doing? What if instead of seeing a feline run away, we instead saw a cat that listened to our call and came back towards us? It’s all up to how you interpret these actions!
Spiritual or religious interpretations of cat running away can tell us a lot about ourselves and the world we live in. The ability to understand the meaning of dreams, which has long been one of the main goals of spirituality, is an essential tool for creating a better life filled with sudden joyful moments.
Spiritual Meaning of Cat Running Away
As cats are known for their independence, it is not uncommon for them to run away from home. This can be a sign that the cat has become bored with its current environment or is looking for new experiences.
If you have noticed your cat running away from home, it is important to consider whether there may be something more serious going on. Cats who have been abused or neglected may run away as a way of escaping their situation. If this is the case, you should take your cat to the vet immediately to determine if there are any injuries or other issues that need to be addressed.
If your cat runs away due to boredom and lack of stimulation, there are some things you can do to help keep it engaged. You can try providing toys or treats as rewards at regular intervals throughout the day and rewarding good behavior with affection and praise. You may also want to increase playtime with your cat by playing fetch with a favorite toy or spending some time playing with her in an interactive game like hide-and-seek or fetch.
The spiritual meaning of a cat running away is that there is something that you need to let go of.
This could be anything from a bad habit to an unhealthy relationship, but the key to releasing it is to stop chasing after it.
Instead, turn around and face what you’re running away from. Look it in the eye and say, “I’m letting you go.” Then take a step toward what you’re running towards—your future.
I can only imagine what our kitties think when our tall and clumsy bodies move towards them. Some might be used to it by now, some might be new to it altogether and some might choose to flee.
If it was a stray cat, I’m sure we wouldn’t take it too personally, but if it’s our resident kitty giving us the cold shoulder, then we might see it as a rejection.
Before we let our pride take over, we should ask ourselves:
Why does my cat run away from me? If your cat runs away when you approach to pick or pet them, then they might feel threatened or uncomfortable. Even if your cat loves you, they may not trust you yet. Building mutual trust and accepting your cat’s boundaries can bring you closer- but it might take time.
If want to find out, why your cat may be giving you the cold shoulder let’s dig a little deeper into some of the possible reasons.
Why Does My Cat Run Away From Me?
Most of us probably know by now that our kitties can be quite mischievous little creatures with a mind of their own. One moment they might enjoy long sessions of petting and the next you might find them lurking in some dark corner, which they probably call “alone time.”
While most of us love our cats, specifically for their quirks, one can’t help but feel somewhat hurt at being avoided. Well, it’s important to understand that if your cat runs away from you, it doesn’t mean that they don’t love you. Remember that much can be done to change this fleeting reaction, but first, we should look at the possible reasons.
Spiritual Meaning of Cat Running Away From House
1.Poor Socialization
They say everything begins in our childhood and for cats that’s kittenhood. Cats go through a period of socialization and the first 9 weeks of their life are the most critical in their social development. During this period, kittens discover the world around them and develop numerous stimuli like smells, sights, sounds that if not handled correctly could lead to fear and anxiety.
What this means for you is that if your kitten or cat wasn’t properly handled by humans or had little to no contact with people then they might have developed fear around them. For example, feral cats most probably had a negative or simply no exposure to humans during that period which makes them fearful of people.
According to research, “owners of additionally socialized kittens reported significantly higher emotional support from their cats, and fewer of these cats exhibited behavior indicative of a fear of humans.”
So, when you visit your local adoption center make sure to learn a few things about your cat’s period of socialization. Your vet or animal behaviorist could also offer additional information on how to help relieve your cat’s anxiety, enhance their socialization skills, and help mend your bond so they will eventually stop running away from you.
2.The Fear Instinct
We might view cats as our pets now, but according to a study published in the research journal, Science, the process of feline domestication began up to 12,000 years ago, unlike dogs which according to new evidence evolved from wolves 20,000 to 40,000 years ago.
So, while our cats have come a long way, they still possess the instincts of their feline ancestors. As John Bradshaw, author of the book, “Cat Sense” points out, “cats evolved from a solitary animal that has never needed any sophisticated repertoire.”
While feline domestication pushed cats to develop a certain language to communicate with us, like meowing, they still in a lot of ways behave like their ancestors. Staying hidden during the daytime and hunting during nighttime is one of them.
You may ask, what does instinct have to do with your kitty running away from you? Well, you should keep in mind that while cats might be renowned hunters, they’re also prey. If you just brought your cat home, then they might see you as a threat that triggers their prey instinct. Or they might want to play a game of “catch me if you can!”
In case your kitty isn’t new, but they react to your approach by running away or walking backwards, most of the time, then perhaps the way you’ve been approaching them from the very beginning has made them feel anxious. If they feel like they’re being chased, then quite possibly they might not know what will happen once they’re caught.
3.Traumatic Past
People oftentimes associate trauma with the human experience but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Hana Surowinski, the director of an animal shelter in Kabul called Nowzad states that, “like people, animals react to trauma in many different ways,” and she also adds that, “how it presents itself in that animal is individual to them.
Stacy Lopresti-Goodman, an associate professor of psychology at Marymount University in Arlington, Va., also explains that, “given similarities in brain structures responsible for stress responses, animals exhibit symptoms which resemble those of PTSD in humans.”
If you find your kitty running away from you, and show signs of aggression or constant fear, there’s a chance that they had a traumatic past. According to research, the effect of abuse and neglect can have both short and long-term psychological and emotional effects. So, a traumatized cat can be of any age.
Some cat parents use punishment as a way to keep their cats from certain behaviors, like scratching furniture or jumping up on kitchen counters. While some might use cat-friendly solutions like using essential oils to keep them away from certain areas, others may spray them with bottles filled with water as punishment. Punishment can only lead to stress and stress leads to trauma.
Karen L. Overall, VMD, Ph.D., DACVB brings good news by letting us know that, “animals can recover from abuse, but it takes time and active intervention. Fortunately, we do not need to know the nature of the abuse to help them recover.” Be gentle with your cat and don’t force them into something they don’t feel comfortable with yet.
4.They Want Space
New and old cat owners alike should always keep in mind that each cat is different, and no personality is alike. Just like with people that can be characterized as introverts, extroverts, or both, cats are no different in this aspect.
My two cats for example are the complete opposites when it comes to socializing. One is extremely sociable and friendly with everyone, while the other one prefers his own company and occasionally my own. The way I behave towards my cats is based on their differences.
Perhaps you’re not paying enough attention to your kitty and tend to approach them at the wrong time. If they’re busy, or they are enjoying some alone time, instead of walking towards them and scaring them away, give them some space and let them come to you instead.
5.The Age Factor
As we mentioned before, kittens have a way of accepting humans into their lives and that happens during the socialization period. If you’ve recently adopted a little rascal and you notice that they keep skittering away from you then perhaps try to be patient. I’m sure the little furball will need some time to adjust to their new environment and you.
Acknowledging your kitten’s need for adjustment will help you build a trusting relationship and give them the confidence they need. If on the other hand, you notice your senior cat suddenly avoiding your approaches, then it might be the elderly factor.
Richard Goldstein, DVM, assistant professor in small animal medicine at Cornel University College of Veterinary Medicine explains that, “some cats may need more emotional support as they age and others may prefer to be left alone.” Your kitty might be too old for your energetic attention so perhaps you should try a different, more gentle approach.
6.Sensitivity To Loud Noise
Next time you approach your kitty notice your movements and the sounds you make. Cats are quite sensitive to sound and studies have shown that they can, “amplify sound waves 2 to 3 times for frequencies 2,000 and 6,000 Hz.” They also can move their ears around 180 degrees and finally, they can hear frequencies higher than humans and dogs at 64,000 Hz.
Whenever I walk up to my cats in a hurry, I notice that I tend to make a lot of noise, partly because of my shoes and partly because they’re so cute and I need to squeal at them! I promise I control myself most of the time and try to be a considering cat-mother since cats don’t like loud noises and harsh sounds.
I’m sure this kitty can agree as it’s running away for his life after hearing that sneeze!
So, when you find yourself rushing towards your kitty, try to pace yourself and observe their reaction. Make them feel that you’re safe to be around and that you’re not just a clumsy and loud lunatic.
7.Environmental Changes
It’s true that cats love their owners, and they consider their presence important for their wellbeing. A study published in the Scientific World Journal states that, “the quality and quantity of human-animal interactions experienced by cats are both relevant to their welfare outcomes in various settings.” It’s also noted that, “the social environment is of great importance to cats.”
Since our interaction with our cats is so important you might wonder, why does my cat run away from me? Perhaps you should ask, what changes caused this avoidance instead. If you brought a new cat into your home, your kitty might be feeling jealous and unable to adjust to the new reality they were forced into.
You might have people staying over or new housemates that make your kitty uncomfortable and they’re projecting this discomfort by avoiding you. You see cats are creatures of habit and any kind of change in their environment and daily routine can cause them stress.
Moving to a new home could also cause such a reaction, but it could also be something as small as the change in their feeding routine. An automatic wet food feeder can help you keep their feeding time perfectly scheduled. But whatever change it might be, help your cat adjust to the new reality. Give your kitty some extra attention so they don’t feel like you’re neglecting them.
8.A Dominant Cat
When you bring a new cat to your home it’s important to remember that they might not get along, or that it may take a lot of time. All cats react differently and it’s true that some might become bonded and others might never get along with a stranger cat.
It’s also possible that one of the cats has claimed you as part of their territory and now the other kitty can’t come near you. Cat’s can show aggression in many ways and it’s not uncommon to see one cat bullying the other. Just as a cat can claim a room, a litterbox, and a food bowl, they could possibly do the same to their owner.
Bringing two cats together can be difficult and studies show that, “when the cats are brought together, key resources such as food, litter boxes, shelter and social interaction need to be available in sufficient amounts to ensure that there is no unnecessary conflict.”
So, having enough resources placed around the house, giving them an equal amount of attention, and steadily reintroducing your kitties can help shift the dynamic and eventually establish a fair equilibrium.
9.They’re In Heat
Cats can react differently when they mature and become sexually active. Whether your kitty is allowed outside or not, they might be running away from you because they’ve sensed another cat outside and they want to find it. A cat in heat can be less friendly since their mind isn’t focused on you, but on their instinctive need to procreate.
If your male cat has been neutered, they still might show signs of a sexually aggressive feline, though it’s not too common. Nicholas Dodman, BVMS, Dipl. ACVB, states that, “the various male behaviors, including inter-male aggression and sexual aggression, may not be completely suppressed and may persist for years following castration of a super-male.”
If you find your cat running away from you and show signs of mating behavior, then a trip to your vet could help you figure out the reasons behind it. If you’ve got a cat in heat, you can find a list of low-cost spay/neuter clinics across the globe thanks to PetSmart by clicking here.
10. They Found A New Home
This might be a bigger concern to cat owners who let their cats roam freely outside of their homes. If your cat is in heat, you might start seeing less and less of them when the mating season approaches. For this reason, and to avoid the birth of stray kitties neutering/spaying our cats is important.
But if your kitty has been castrated and you still see them run away from you whenever you approach them it might be because they prefer the outside. Your kitty might be naturally less touchy-feely, so they find the outside world more appealing. It’s also possible that they’ve got a second family on the side.
Unfortunately, it can happen to cat parents that are not home most of the time and they’re too tired to spend time with their feline companions. This can happen to anyone, but it won’t change the fact that your cat is going to feel neglected. If you don’t want to be replaced by someone else, maybe you should try investing more into your cat-human relationship.
With more shared time, loads of love, and a steady, respectful approach you can build up your trust again, and next time your kitty won’t run away from you!
Affectionate Cat Dream Meaning
How Can I Train My Cat To Stop Running Away From Me?
It’s always good to remember that cats can be versatile and different in character and what works for one might not work for the other. With that being said, you can always try to set new rules, boundaries, and expand your relationship with your furry companion. It might seem like an uphill battle for some but investing in their feline hearts is always worth it!
1.Build Mutual Trust
Step number one in mending a friendship gone bad or building it from the very beginning is trust. If you’re desperately wondering, why does my cat run away from me? Then throw that desperation out of the window and instead start listening to your kitty.
Have you been forcing your cat into your hugs? Picking them up when they didn’t anticipate it? Are you observant of their physical cues when you approach them? These are all questions you should start asking yourself. Our cats might not speak our language, but their body language is something we can study and learn what they like or not.
If you’ve been approaching your kitty when they’re in the middle of eating or playing, or simply not in the mood, it’s quite natural that they’d run away. If it’s a reoccurring situation they probably have learned to avoid you precisely because of that.
Notice their ears, are they flat against their head, their eyes wide, and their tail twitching low or tucked beneath their hind legs? If that’s the case, then your kitty is either scared or they want you to stop. Disregarding what they’re asking of you means that only by avoiding you can they get what they want.
When we don’t look for their “no more” signs, or we ignore them, our feline companions will begin to associate us with a person who doesn’t listen to them. They won’t trust us, and they will avoid being approached because there’s no consent in your dynamic.
Once you understand your cat’s body language then you can change your behavior. It might take them a while to unlearn the fact that you were once a selfish clumsy human and that now you’re a trustworthy friend, but it can be done.
2.Creating A Safe Space
For a cat that had a traumatic past or they’ve felt unsafe with you because you misread their signals, trust is not the only thing that will need your attention. Emotional neglect can manifest itself in cats with loving and caring owners as well.
According to the study on The Psychological Aspects of Abuse and Neglect in Animals, “it’s a matter of unintentionally failing to meet an animal’s emotional needs, not any maliciousness or even heartlessness. Boredom, loveliness, and anxiety can exist unbeknownst to the pet owner, and what isn’t seen isn’t addressed.”
Try not to be too hard on yourself, because we’re humans and not cats, so things can easily get lost in translation. There’s a way to fixing this, by creating the right space for your kitty where they can begin to feel secure in their home and in your presence.
Invest in scratching posts, soft cat beds, interactive toys, and healthy treats to give your kitty the desired environment. If you see them running away, ensure that they won’t be cornered, but that they can find places to hide. “Simple enhancements to improve the quality of cat’s living quarters via enrichment such as hiding areas may yield many beneficial effects,” one study suggests.
And while objects, food, and other survival necessities are important, socializing is also part of a cat’s healthy lifestyle. Observe your kitty’s signals and approach when they seem relaxed. Turn yourself into a symbol of safety in your kitty’s eyes and you can only achieve this by listening to their desires and needs.
3.Build Your Cat’s Confidence
You might be the owner of a social cat that has all the confidence in the world and find out that your kitty running away from you is simply an invitation to play. But shy and easily scared cats won’t see your approach as a game.
If your kitty is not oozing confidence, because you just brought them home, then perhaps you could try and give them a little boost. Provide them with interactive toys and encourage your fluffy overlord to play with you. Having a proper area to perch can also help build confidence as cats gain a place where they can survey their domain. My go-to brand for cat trees of any size is Go Pet Club and you can see them on Amazon here.
Don’t let your kitty spend their whole day alone, instead play with them and ignite the hunter’s spirit inside them. This will bring you closer and make your kitty feel like they’re an important part of your life.
4.Positive Reinforcement And Reward
If your cat is living in a safe and trustworthy environment where they get tons of attention from you, but they still run away from you, then you can slowly train them from doing so.
Cats don’t respond well to shouting and even a cat without a traumatic past can respond to such behavior with stress-induced behaviors. So, whatever your kitty might do remember to always use positive reinforcement.
When you come up to your kitty make sure to have some treats or catnip at hand and offer them as a reward for their approach. Be always patient and wait for your kitty to come closer to you. With time you won’t need to lure them in with treats, because this process is about letting your cat know that coming close to you is a positive interaction.
Avoid looming over your kitty like some giant, but instead, come down to their level. Even when you pet them, don’t simply push your hand down like a grappling hook, but squat down and let them smell your hand, and if you see them rubbing against it, then that’s them giving you their consent to pet them.
5.Don’t Force Your Kitty
Not all cats are cuddly and while you can certainly try and warm them up to the idea of cuddles and pets, it’s also important to not force anything on them. If your kitty doesn’t like to be picked up or petted randomly then don’t do it.
If you notice that you’ve wronged your fluffy familiar an apology can be the first step to reconciliation. But apologizing with treats and toys won’t always work, so instead try to respect your cat’s wishes to be left alone whenever they want to be left alone.
Perhaps you should let your kitty come to you whenever they want to be petted or snuggle next to you. Instead of forcing them to use other means to interact with your cat through your initiative like playing with them.
Closing Thoughts
Most of our cats have their own habits and unique behaviors and it’s clear that we can’t force anything on them. I’m sure that’s not what we’d want anyway, but their independence can make us feel insecure sometimes, especially if it looks like they’re avoiding our approach.
Well, I’m sure our cats love us, even if they run away from us from time to time. The only thing we can do is to care for them, respect their boundaries, and give them the opportunity to come close to us.
So, tell us, did you ever have to ask yourself, why does my cat run away from me? Did any of our answers help you solve this riddle or do you have a different perspective on the matter?
Holding A Cat Dream Meaning
Dream about Carrying Cat points to a heavy load that you are carrying around. Your problems and worrying are affecting your educational or professional pursuits. You are involved in a slightly sticky situation. The dream refers to the holiday season of fun, joy, togetherness and giving. Your subconscious thoughts may be coming onto the surface. Carrying Cat is a hint for confidence about achieving your goals. You are experiencing a sense of calm and refreshment. Perhaps you need some motivation to get things moving.
This dream hints completion and a sense of pride or accomplishment. The intentions of a friend are pure and true. Dreaming of Carry and Cat Carry in your dream refers to your anxieties about your daily problems. You need to change your direction or alter your approach in how your pursue some situation. You need to learn to take a negative and turn it into a positive. Your dream is a clue for authority, direction and judgment. Something is too good to be true. Carry in this dream is an indication for fears that you are being played. There is something in your life that is no longer needed. You are trying to incorporate aspects of a person into your own self. The dream represents feelings of vulnerability.
You need to be more carefree. Cat in dream signals dissatisfaction and an unpromising outlook. Perhaps you did something that you were not proud of or something that is coming back to haunt you. You are searching for some direction in your life. Your dream represents fears of inadequacy and low self-esteem. You are not afraid to let others know that you are in charge. Cat dream is some emotional outburst or suffering. You are not ready to address your emotions directly. You need to proceed carefully into some situation or relationship. Your dream is a portent for your leisurely pursuits. Your privacy is being invaded. Dream about both “Carry” and “Cat” signals any object, animal, place associated with your country.
You are having difficulties coping with life’s problems and issues. Others are not seeing things from your angle. This dream signals a lack of self-confidence and embarrassment. You are trying to establish some boundaries without stepping over anybody’s toes. Dream about carrying cat suggests your fun-loving personality and open-minded perspectives on life. You are learning the steps to some new project, new process or new stage in your life. You are putting up an emotional wall or barrier between you and others around you. Your dream denotes rejuvenation and renewal. You are being protected by some spiritual power.
Is It Good To See Cat In Dream
In Chinese daily life, it can be said that cats are a type of animal that people like very much. When there is a cat in the house, Chinese people treat it like their own child and give it the best care. So, let’s see what it means to dream about cats according to Chinese dream theory!
Chinese Dream Interpretation Theory
‘Zhou Duke Interprets Dreams’ (周公解梦Zhou Gong Jie Meng) is the classic Chinese text that is the basis of most traditional Chinese dream interpretation theory. It’s traditionally attributed to the Duke of Zhou (reign 1042–1035 BC), revered as the ‘God of Dreams’ and the ‘First Sage’.
General Meanings of Dreaming about Cats
According to Eastern tradition, dreaming of a cat is usually a good thing.
Cats often appear in our subconscious world. According to Duke of Zhou Interprets Dreams, cats in dreams often symbolize a certain characteristic of a person or a certain person, often a woman. In a dream, a cat often feels gentle and a bit cunning.
Dreaming of a cat could mean that you will get unexpected responses or find some surprising behaviors in one of your relationships in the next two days. It is best to keep your mind flexible to face them. In such an unusual atmosphere, there are some strange and unpredictable actions and relationships that deviate from social conventions, and these can make you emotionally vulnerable.
Dreaming of many cats means that when you establish your work or financial management goals, you can implement them step by step. You do not need to be quick or greedy. You can do it without problems. Just keep calm and focus on handling everything, then you will be satisfied with your work.
Dream Meanings for Colored Cats in Dreams
Dreaming of a black cat indicates that your luck is bad in the near future and that bad things will happen, but do not take it too seriously. Let everything go with the flow, and avoid serious negative emotions, as that will make things more difficult.
Dreaming of a white cat means that an entanglement that seems harmless will eventually damage your property and you will feel sad.
Dreaming of a yellow cat indicates days of confusion. These days, coincidences easily influence you. Often due to wild guesses, it is impossible to do things at hand correctly. It is recommended that you get more physical exercise to help you return to a normal state of mind.
Dreaming of a gray cat means that in the next two days, you can allow yourself to dress in a more relaxed and leisurely way. As long as you don’t do it too casually, this little change will give others a new feel.
Dreaming of multicolored cats indicates that you may be distracted and not in a suitable state of mind for things that require careful consideration, especially important negotiations and signing contracts.
Meanings of Dreams of Kittens or Small Cats
Dreaming of (newborn) kittens indicates that your relationship with others will be very good in the near future. If there is any problem between them, both parties will solve it quickly. In your career, you will receive help from noble people and you should treat people who help you sincerely. Also, considering the long term in your career, if you work together, your career can be successful.
Dreaming of small cats indicates that you have many thoughts and you feel insecure. You are sensitive to the people around you and things around you. You will be aware of the slightest disturbance and your work will be easily affected. Just do your thing; don’t think too much. If you have any concerns or pressure, you can reach out to your parents or your partner, which will quickly relieve your stress.
Meanings for Dreams of Sick Cats or Dead Cats
Dreaming of a sick cat means that, when you are doing things in the coming day, you will be in conflict with the rules and regulations that stop you doing what you want. You will have doubts about proceeding. But the rules are not usually something that a person can change in a single moment. After venting your emotions, it is better to think about how to avoid breaking the rules. Acting out of love may lead to emotion-driven actions, so you should always remind yourself of restraint.
Dreaming of dead cats indicates a recent decline of fortune, and there will be many annoying things that will bother you. At the same time, it also shows that you have been a bit depressed recently and that you may be obsessed with some things and cannot get rid of their influence.
Meanings of Dreams of Cats with Mice/Dogs
Dreaming of mice and cats reminds you to be especially careful about theft.
If a cat and a mouse are close in your dream, it is very unfortunate. It often implies that the dreamer has failed to fulfill his duties, is suspected of breach of duty, violation of discipline, and fraud.
Dreaming of cats and dogs is good if you dream of cats and dogs living in harmony. It indicates that you will make friends with people who you had a bad relationship with previously. If you dream of cat and dog fights it indicates that your recent misunderstanding with others will gradually disappear, which is a good sign.
Meanings for Dreams of Cat Attacks
Dreaming of aggressive cats indicates that disaster is imminent, and it may fall on your head or on the head of a person protected by you.
Dreaming that a cat bites you means that in real life you have to be careful of villains. They may have power to defame your reputation and cause the loss of your property.
Dreaming that a cat bites your hand indicates that competitors, enemies, or even friends will hurt you.
Luck and Fengshuifor ThoseDreaming about Cats
- Love rating: 92%
- Wealth index: 75%
- Health index: 77%
- Success rate: 99%
- Good luck color: white
- Favorable orientation: southeast
- Suitable activities: loaning to others, planning to do something important
- Taboos: building a temple, moving to a new house