Norway inspired us to explore the Viking world of cats and myth
In 2024, we had the pleasure of attending the FIFé World Show in Norway. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, warm-hearted cat lovers, and a deep cultural connection to the feline world. Looking back, the experience inspired us to explore something we had not written about before: the role of cats in Viking mythology.
In Norse legends, the goddess Freyja was the protector of love, fertility, and magic. She was said to ride in a chariot pulled by two powerful cats. These cats were not just symbols of beauty or mystery; they were strong, noble, and magical.
Some believe they were inspired by the large, cold-climate cats of the region, possibly ancestors of the modern Norwegian Forest Cat. With their strong, muscular build, bushy tails, and dense, water-resistant coats, these majestic cats are perfectly adapted to the Nordic environment. In fact, they are one of the largest domestic cat breeds in terms of body size. While their origins go back centuries, they were officially recognised as a breed in the 1970s and have since become beloved all over the world, not just for their looks but also for their affectionate and intelligent nature.
Freyja’s cats were so revered that Viking farmers would leave bowls of milk out for them, hoping to gain her favor for a good harvest or household protection. Of course, they did not know what we do now: most adult cats are lactose intolerant. While the gesture was heartfelt, milk is not the best treat for our feline friends. We actually wrote about that on our blog if you are curious.
Cats were also closely linked to women who practiced seiðr, a form of Norse magic that involved prophecy and shaping fate. These women were often respected and sometimes feared for their deep intuition and spiritual powers. In this context, cats were seen as magical companions: watchful, mysterious, and protective.
Beyond the myths, real cats lived among the Vikings. Archaeological evidence shows that Vikings kept cats mostly for practical reasons, such as keeping rodents under control in longhouses and on ships, rather than as pets. For the Vikings, cats were part of everyday life, myth, and magic. At 3coty®, we love that idea, because we believe that even today, cats deserve to be treated with reverence. Our meat-only recipes respect who they are, naturally.
What do you think? Were cats once seen as magical in your part of the world too?
Photography: Nynke van Holten / catchyimages.nl
