Why do they say cats have nine lives?

The saying that cats have nine lives comes from a blend of cultural beliefs, historical anecdotes, and human observation of the remarkable physical abilities of cats themselves. In ancient Egypt, cats were revered as divine creatures and often associated with the goddess Bastet, who was believed to have protective powers. This reverence may have contributed to the idea that cats have multiple lives, as they were seen by many as mystical and otherworldly beings. In many Anglo-Saxon cultures, nine is often seen as an auspicious number. However, there are deviations in the saying based on culture—in Iran, for example, cats are said to have seven lives, not nine.

Cats are also known for their extraordinary agility and ability to survive situations that may be perilous for other animals. Their flexible spines, powerful muscles, and keen reflexes allow them to twist and turn in mid-air, and they often land on their feet after a fall. This “righting reflex” and general ability to escape harm also plays into the myth of cats having multiple lives.

Beyond their physical prowess, cats also have strong survival instincts. They are solitary hunters, adept at avoiding danger and finding food. Their acute senses of hearing, sight, and smell help them detect threats and opportunities in their environment, which enhances their ability to survive in the wild. All of these assets have further strengthened the idea that cats have many lives.