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Every month, Amazon, Etsy, crowd-funding platforms, and bookstores release numerous tarot and oracle decks. There are now thousands of decks available, ranging from new releases to out-of-print ones. Reviewing a deck helps readers decide whether to purchase it, focusing on factors like card quality, artwork, and guidebook usefulness. This month, I’ve chosen to critique the Catomancy – The Kitten Tarot.
From an interview online with Enchanted Gypsy:
Marco Rocchi and Fabio Maggio discussed their collaboration on Catomancy – The Kitten Tarot Deck. This whimsical kitten-themed deck combines Marco’s experience as an Italian comic book artist and Fabio’s creative vision as the illustrator.
Marco, based in Florence, Italy, drew inspiration for the deck from the cats in his neighborhood. He sees them as guardians of destiny. Meanwhile, Fabio, originally from Sicily and relatively new to tarot, embraced the project with enthusiasm. He brought the deck’s playful and adorable designs to life.
The creators highlighted the deck’s unique features, including 330gsm black core cardstock with a smooth, natural gloss finish. Sustainability was also important, with FSC-certified materials used throughout. The Kickstarter campaign successfully completed in 2023, with six times the funding requested.
Marco’s favorite card is The Hanged Cat, which he sees as emblematic of the deck’s charm. On the other hand, Fabio prefers The Hermit, a grumpy yet endearing feline in a pullover. Both creators hope the deck will bring joy to cat lovers, allowing them to see cat magic in the deck.
Catomancy promises to delight tarot readers with its heartfelt design and undeniable charm.
Next after this publicity
The copy I reviewed used thin card stock with a gloss finish and rounded corners. They are easy to shuffle because they are smaller than standard tarot cards, and slightly larger than playing cards. If you have small hands, you will easily be able to riffle shuffle them. Thankfully, the gloss finish prevents the cards from sticking together when first removed from the box. In fact, they are fairly slick, so you want to have a good hold on them. Otherwise, they will slip out of your hands. With the low-quality card stock, these cards are not durable and will wear out with extended use.
The artwork for this deck is fun and playful, especially the Major Arcana and the court cards. What makes this deck stand out is the whimsy of the kittens in the cards. There is no effort to mimic the Rider Waite designs, which does set the deck apart. Unfortunately, the artists decided to do pip style cards for the Ace to Ten cards of the Minor Arcana. Instead of a kitten in action, we get cat treats for the coins suit and cups for the cups suit. Cat claws scratching a surface represents the swords suit and cat toys represent the wands suit.
Meaning:
In the Kitten Tarot Deck, the Magician embodies curiosity, resourcefulness, and the potential to turn dreams into reality. The kitten, nestled in a humble cardboard box, symbolizes the ability to create magic with simple tools. Reaching for the fly tracing an infinity symbol, it mirrors the endless possibilities and connection between intention and action. The open can of treats and feathery toy represent untapped resources and the tools at the kitten’s disposal. This card reminds readers that everything needed for success is already present. Thus, focus, creativity, and determination transform even the simplest circumstances into something extraordinary.
Meaning:
The 8 of Coins represents dedication, craftsmanship, and honing skills through practice. Depicted as eight distinct cat treats, it symbolizes careful effort and the rewards of refining one’s craft. This card encourages focused attention to detail, reminding readers that mastery and success come from perseverance and learning with intention.
Meaning:
The King of Cups embodies emotional mastery, balance, and compassion, even in humorous situations. Depicted as a large cat attempting to fit into a too-small cup, it symbolizes the ability to maintain poise. This proves to be true even when things don’t fit perfectly. Therefore, the card encourages readers to lead with a calm, loving heart, no matter the circumstances.
Unfortunately, the QR code to the booklet for the deck I purchased did not take me to the booklet. As a result, I created interpretations based on the traditional meanings drawn from the Rider Waite and Marseilles Tarots. If you are a seasoned reader, the lack of a booklet is not a problem. If you are a beginner, then you will want to look up the meanings of the cards online. For the Major Arcana, you should use the Rider Waite meanings. For the Minor Arcana, you should use the Marseilles card meanings.
The Catomancy Tarot is a delightful deck perfect for beginners, young readers, and lighthearted public readings. With its playful kitten imagery, it brings a sense of fun and ease to tarot, making it enjoyable for reading. The deck’s whimsical art helps keep the tone of readings upbeat, even when challenging cards appear. Such whimsy fosters inviting readings that encourages curiosity and engagement for all audiences.
The Catomancy Tarot earns 3 out of 5 stars. Its playful imagery and beginner-friendly design make it a fun, affordable option under $15. However, the flimsy card stock and lack of a promised workbook via the QR code detract from its overall value. While great for entry-level users, it falls short as a durable or collectible deck for seasoned enthusiasts.
If you like this deck and wish to purchase a copy, you can do so online.
