Witches and familiars is an often-argued topic in witchcraft circles. To help you understand, here is some information you may not have known.
A familiar is a magical spirit that enters the body of another, usually an animal – often a cat. Why a cat? Because cats inherently walk a crooked path and have the ability to see things in two worlds (think of being able to see in the dark).
A familiar is a spiritual servant to the witch. The familiar spirit has made a pact with the witch to protect and do spiritual services upon command. The important thing to remember is that the CAT is not the familiar. The familiar just inhabits the body of the cat. Familiars are servants, but not slaves. They come and go as they please, are magically capable and are used as a tool to assist in magical workings. They are often used as a shield or protection for the witch against spells cast against her. In return, the familiar receives energy from you that is beneficial.
Can your familiar be your pet? Probably not. I have always loved my cats and would not use them as a tool or a shield. To do so without permission involves some ethical questions you might want to explore.
My experience is that many witches secretly want to have their pets be their familiar. Even though your cat may seem interested in your magical work, this is generally just their desire to be around you. While your cat may be special to you, unless it’s possessed by a spirit familiar it’s just a cat. To think otherwise may be your ego in action. Something to think about!
Some witches also feel that having a familiar is required. It is not. A familiar is a magical assistant, and not all practitioners require that assistance. If you want a familiar, here are some suggestions on how to go about looking for one.
- Watch for behavior in animals that is unusual. Racoons eating out of your trash can is not unusual. A wild rabbit that will allow you to walk up and pet it is unusual. If that happens, the rabbit may be your familiar. You don’t have to OWN the animal for it to be a familiar; remember, familiars come and go as they please.
- Ask your gods/deities for assistance. They may direct a familiar to you or give you signs during mediations or journey work.
- Don’t obsess about it. Sometimes it’s just not time for a familiar, no matter how much you want one.
For deeper reading on the subject of familiars we suggest “Familiars in Witchcraft: Supernatural Guardians in the Magical Traditions of the World by Maja D’Aoust.