Why Witches Have Magical Sidekicks and How They’ve Evolved Beyond Cats
Ever wondered why witches always seem to have a furry, feathered, or sometimes scaly friend by their side? Whether it’s the classic black cat, a butthole-less orange ball of fluff named Bob (Grimoires of a Middle-aged Witch), or a more exotic animal like Tizzy the Squirrel in my Witchin’ Impossible series, the familiar is like a witch’s magical sidekick—always ready to help stir the potion, lend a paw (or claw) during a spell, or just be generally snarky and sassy. But how did this tradition start, and why have familiars gone from being just cats to a whole zoo of magical creatures in today’s fiction?
The Old-School Origins: It’s Not Just About Cats
Back in the Middle Ages, having a cat that stared at you a little too long could land you in serious trouble. Familiars were believed to be supernatural helpers, spirits in disguise that helped witches with their magic—or, according to paranoid villagers, with all kinds of mischief. These creatures were said to be gifted to witches by the devil himself (talk about a “free pet” scam, LOL), and they served as both protectors and magical amplifiers. Cats, dogs, toads, and birds were the usual suspects, but cats—especially those sleek, hard-to-see-in-the-dark black ones—became the poster children of the familiar world.
During the infamous witch trials, having a pet with you was like having a one-way ticket to being accused of witchcraft (I would have been put on trial immediately!). Scared, narrow-minded people genuinely believed these beloved fur, feathered, and scaly babies were spies for witches. The sweet floofs were not just pets, or so the paranoid accusers believed, they were partners in crime. And so the bond between witches and their animal pals was cemented in folklore, even if it meant an unfair reputation for your everyday cat.
Familiars in Fiction: More Than Just Cat Companions
Fast forward to today, and you’ll notice that familiars have gotten a major upgrade in the sidekick department. No longer just cats, familiars have expanded into a wide range of animals, each with a unique flair. Squirrels, dogs, owls, foxes, wolves, ravens—you name it, there’s probably a witch in fiction who’s hanging out with it. This shift isn’t just for the cool factor (though who doesn’t love a witch with a dragon familiar?). It’s also about making the witch-familiar relationship more meaningful.
Beyond Cats: Welcome to the Witch’s Wild Kingdom
Cats are awesome (I have two of my own), and they will always have a place in witch lore (past, present, and future), but modern witches are more diversified, and so are their familiars. Dogs? They are loyal and protective, just right for a witch struggling on her own. Owls? They’re wise and a little judgy, perfect for a witch who keeps her spells organized. Foxes? Clever and mischievous, they bring a touch of wild unpredictability to the mix. Familiars have become as varied as the witches, reflecting their personalities, powers, and flaws.
Nowadays, you’ll find familiars that are just as much a character as the witch. Whether it’s a sarcastic raven cracking jokes or a loyal wolf ready to guard the witch at any cost, familiars have evolved into full-blown characters, not just magical accessories. And let’s not forget the more exotic options—dragons, anyone? Sure, they might hog the couch and scorch your spellbook, but they’re all about the drama.
Familiars as Partners, Not Pets
This shift reflects a change in how we view animals today, too. We see them as companions, friends, and occasionally as judgmental roommates, and that’s mirrored in how familiars are portrayed in fiction. It’s a relationship built on respect, humor, and a shared sense of purpose—sometimes with a dash of judgy sass-mouth.
Familiar’s Often Reflect The Witch
Familiars today are as unique and different as their witches. A raccoon familiar? You’ve got a trash-diving, snack-stealing partner in crime. A snake? Mysterious and plotting something. In other words, today’s familiar reflects the witch’s inner world. It’s no longer just about having a magical helper. The familiar is a reflection on the witch herself. Is she loyal and protective like a dog, sassy and snarky like a squirrel, low maintenance and comforting like a buttholeless cat who likes to cuddle? The familiar attached to the witch speaks volumes.
The Endless Appeal of Magical Sidekicks
Familiars have come a long way from the days of the witch trials, and their evolution in fiction shows just how much we love a good sidekick—especially one with fur, feathers, or scales. Whether they’re helping out with spells, offering a bit of comic relief, or just being there as a constant companion, familiars have grown from simple symbols to complex, beloved characters in their own right. (Just ask fans of my Witchin’ Impossible series, it’s Tizzy this and Tizzy that. Witch Hazel gets no love! LOL).
So, the next time you pick up an urban fantasy, cozy fantasy, or any witch-driven novel and meet a witch’s familiar, know that you’re seeing a piece of history mixed with a touch of modern magic. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself wishing you had a familiar of your own—preferably one that won’t eat all your snacks.
Simon, Kona, and Ash are my magical sidekicks and crime partners. They serve as my muses, my therapists, and my furry best friends.
My real-life familiars are below!
Comments
Thanks, Renee. That was really interesting. I’ve always loved the history of magical beings. And your cats rock!
Thanks, Ann! They are my cuddle-monkey, sweet chonky-chonkies. ❤️ LOL