Mystical Cats Tarot - Eight of Sky

What looks like a grey colorpoint shorthair cat can be seen in a great state of panic on this card. He's lying on his back, all claws out, his mouth wide open suggesting he's screaming and his body seemingly entangled in a large dead branch. The surroundings depict a very arid and lifeless place, the ground all around being dry and naked and the leaves in the branch looking dead and brittle.

In the background we can see the outline of some mountains partially hidden by a cloud of mist. The sky is covered in grey clouds and we can see 8 bats flying towards us.

Colors : Grey and beige-brown, quite lifeless.

Like the cat in the card, when we panic, we often lose all common sense and risk making the situation worse instead of solving the problem. The advice given here is very straight-forward, yet not necessarily easy to apply to real life situations : ''When you feel trapped and out of choices, stay calm and look around for a simple solution.'' Most of the times, your life is not in immediate danger and you can take the time to relax, breathe deeply and try to think straight for a second.

Symbolism :

Lying on the back : Most animals feel very uncomfortable in this position, because it makes them more vulnerable against predators and enemies.

All claws out and screaming : Show a state of fear

Dead tree branch : As trees typically symbolize life and connection to Earth, a dead tree would likely symbolize the opposite. In our case, it could represent a lack of connection to reality.

Arid area/desert : Has a symbolism somewhat opposite to the one of water, since arid areas are characterized by the absence or quasi-absence of water. Represents difficult/absence of life and of emotional growth, or hardships.

Mountains : Represent potential obstacles.

Fog : Symbolizes the unconscious mind and confusion.

Grey clouds : They symbolize a potential threat and confusing thoughts and emotions.

Number 8 : This number is about strength and power. The cat on this card need to find those qualities within himself to overcome his problem.

Bats : Symbol of intuition, illusion and rebirth.