When I walked into Purrfect Day Cafe, a local cat cafe based in Louisville, Kentucky, I had every intention of choosing a cat to adopt. I had already picked out names and had a collar ready for my new, furry roommate. What I didn’t expect was to be the one that was actually chosen. While I was playing with another kitten in a corner, my soon to be bestie slid out from under a sofa, rooted herself in my lap and began to purr. Without even thinking, I turned to the adoption assistant and said, “this is the one.”

Cats have long been associated with magic, mystery, and the unseen. Folklore involving cats can be found on every continent in the world. Witches in Europe were sometimes said to have animal companions called familiars, or spirits/creatures believed to assist, protect, or accompany them in their magical work. The idea of a cat being your familiar can be understood literally as a spiritual belief or more playfully, as a way of describing an unusually deep bond with your feline companion. I tend to believe in both.

Here are 4 ways to tell if your cat is displaying familiar energy.

1. They Chase Away Evil Energy in Your House

Have you ever seen your cat stare at seemingly nothing, than dart towards your door? If you have, you owe your cat a thank you and some fish flavored wet food. Ancient Egyptians associated feline animals with the divine. Cats were even mummified upon their deaths. They were considered protectors who were capable of seeing evil spirits and chasing them away from the home.

2. They’re Drawn to Your Personal Rituals

I affectionately refer to my cat as, “The Keeper of the Journals.” Every time I lay my diary on my bed, before I even open it, she lays on top of it, and sometimes licks the corners. When I do begin to write, she lays next to me or with a paw on the page. If your cat likes to be near you when you meditate, journal, practice divination, light candles, or simply spend time reflecting, they might be your familiar.

Cats are naturally curious creatures, and love being near their favorite person. However, some people interpret this behavior as their cat choosing to participate in or guard their spiritual practice. If you’re like me and are a habitual journalist (I have 46 diaries and counting), this guardianship isn’t taken lightly.

3. Your Cat Shows Up in Your Dreams

Dreams can also play a role in determining whether or not you and your cat have a familiar relationship. You don’t necessarily have to dream about your cat per se, but if your cat just so happens to be walking alongside you sitting where you are in your dream, your feline may be more than just a pet. Keeping a dream journal can help you notice recurring themes. Make sure to note of every appearance your cat makes in your subconscious as well.

4. You Have an Unusually Strong Connection

Everyone believes they have an unusually strong connection with their pets, and rightfully so! Particularly with cats. Felines are remarkably perceptive and can respond to changes in a person’s body language, voice, and routine. And if your cat understands your emotions without needing obvious cues, you might have a familiar. Pay more attention to how your cat acts when you get sad, anxious, or exhausted.

If you believe your cat is your familiar, consider the relationship as a partnership built on spirit. Care for your cat’s physical and emotional needs, give them freedom to be themselves, and notice the ways their presence affects your life. It’s the least you can do for your magical companion.