Why don't Mongolians like cats? - briefly
Mongolians traditionally associate cats with bad luck and negative superstitions, often viewing them as omens of misfortune or deceit. This cultural perception has led to a general aversion towards cats in Mongolian society.
Why don't Mongolians like cats? - in detail
Mongolian attitudes toward cats are deeply rooted in cultural, historical, and environmental factors. Traditionally, Mongolian society has been nomadic, with a strong emphasis on livestock such as horses, sheep, goats, and camels. These animals are crucial for survival in the harsh steppe climate, providing food, transportation, and materials for clothing and shelter. Cats, however, do not fit into this pastoral lifestyle. Unlike dogs, which are valued for their ability to guard livestock and property, cats are seen as less useful in a nomadic context. This practical consideration has influenced perceptions of cats over generations.
Superstitions and folklore also play a part in shaping Mongolian views on cats. In some traditional beliefs, cats are associated with bad luck or negative spiritual forces. For example, there are tales that suggest cats can bring misfortune or that their presence may disrupt harmony within a household. These stories, passed down through generations, have contributed to a general wariness or dislike of cats in certain communities. Additionally, the physical appearance of cats, particularly their eyes, has been linked to supernatural or eerie qualities in Mongolian folklore, further reinforcing negative associations.
Environmental factors further explain the limited affinity for cats. Mongolia’s vast, open landscapes and extreme weather conditions are not conducive to the survival of cats, which are more adapted to settled, urban environments. The scarcity of resources in rural areas means that keeping a non-essential animal like a cat is often seen as impractical. This has led to a lower prevalence of cats in Mongolian households compared to other domesticated animals.
In urban areas, where lifestyles are more modern and sedentary, attitudes toward cats are gradually shifting, particularly among younger generations. However, the historical and cultural legacy of viewing cats as unnecessary or even unlucky persists in many parts of the country. This complex interplay of practicality, tradition, and belief systems explains why cats have not been embraced in Mongolian culture to the same extent as in other societies.