The meaning of the cat and its message in the tarot deck
The meaning of the cat appears in only one card of the Rider-Waite deck: The Queen of Wands. And it’s in this powerful setting that we must interpret its profound message.
There’s a close connection between the meaning of the Queen of Wands and the cat, as they share similar characteristics, making it easy to understand why it appears in this particular and very intense card.
The cat fully embodies and represents all the mystery that tarot cards emanate. Since ancient times, this feline has been praised, celebrated, and deified for two standout traits: indifference and independence. It’s a guardian who holds knowledge of secrets.
Cats have always been seen as receivers and transmitters of magical power, and they never reveal their motives (does anyone really know why cats do some of the mischievous things they do?). These qualities of the cat spill over into tarot, surrounding it with mystery, elegance, divinity, and secrecy.
The cat holds a unique authority, being completely self-possessed. Nothing can condition them, they follow their own interests, self-govern, and set their own rules. They don’t need permission to act, nor do they owe anyone an explanation… Does this sound familiar when you think of the Queen of Wands?
Look at all the meanings and similarities between the Queen and the cat:
- Magic
- Restorative Power
- Renewal and Rebirth
- Singular Focus and Vision
- Feminine Power, Divinity, and Energy
- Discernment
- Nobility of Spirit
- Curiosity and Exploration
- Vigilant Attitude
- Great Independence
- Nurturing and Protecting
- Coldness and Indifference
In general, the Queen of Wands represents outgoing and radiant energy. So, the presence of the black cat on the card might seem like an enigma when interpreting it. But this paradox is exactly about not revealing or showing all our secrets. Everyone has secrets, and a wise person knows when to share and when to keep that information deep inside.
When you see the meaning of the cat appear in a reading, it’s a wake-up call for your awareness, urging you to pay attention to some hidden knowledge deep within you. Think about the information you can share and the information that is best kept back for now.
Without a doubt, the meaning of the cat is bringing you a message—maybe it’s encouraging you to add a bit of mystery to your persona. Or, perhaps the cat and the Queen are inviting you to become the ruler of your own inner knowledge—a reminder that you are the only person in charge of your inner kingdom.
Whatever the message may be, the meaning of the cat certainly carries powerful energy. Honor its presence and its message by trying to incorporate what it wants to teach or show you, perhaps by adopting some of the traits it has, while also absorbing the message from the Queen herself. Like all court cards in the deck, she has a lot to say and teach you.
