bakeneko

Bakeneko (化け猫) is a term in Japanese folklore for a cat with supernatural powers. As a type of yōkai, bakeneko are believed to possess shapeshifting abilities, longevity, and other magical traits that set them apart from ordinary cats. In many legends, cats become bakeneko after living for a long time or under certain conditions, and they are said to be able to transform into human or animal forms.

Bakeneko are often described as causing trouble or misfortune for people, including curses, hauntings, or possessions. Common motifs include the ability to speak, walk upright, wear human clothing, and manipulate objects. Some stories portray bakeneko as dangerous and vengeful, while others present them as mischievous or ambiguous beings.

A closely related category is nekomata, commonly described as a bakeneko with two tails that gains greater power and may bring disasters. The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but many tales preserve a distinction where nekomata are a specific sub-type.

Historically, bakeneko appear in Edo-period literature, kaidan ghost stories, and stage works such as kabuki. They function as explanations for unexplained events or as folkloric explanations for cat behavior. In modern times, the concept persists in anime, manga, and fantasy fiction, with varying abilities and roles.