In Egyptian mythology, the goddess Bastet is associated with the animal of the domestic cat. Revered for her nurturing and protective qualities, Bastet embodies motherhood and fertility, while also being the goddess of war. Cats were seen as sacred animals in ancient Egypt, symbolizing grace and independence, and they were often depicted in art and worship. Bastet's association with cats highlights the importance placed on domesticity and femininity within the culture, further elevating her status as a beloved deity among the Egyptian people.