Is there scientific proof that pets bring wealth?

No, but the belief can inspire positive habits and optimism.

Can I keep a lucky pet even if I don’t believe in superstition?

Yes, many people enjoy them for their beauty, companionship, and cultural value.

Which mystical pet is the easiest to care for?

Goldfish and turtles are among the easiest to maintain for beginners.

Do all cultures believe in lucky animals?

Almost every culture has traditions linking certain animals to prosperity and good fortune.

Is keeping koi fish expensive?

Yes, koi fish require proper ponds and care, but they are valued for their beauty and symbolism.

10 Mystical Pets from Around the World That Are Believed to Bring Wealth and Prosperity

Aparna Jha | Aug 13, 2025, 11:45 IST

( Image credit : Times Pets )

Highlight of the story: Throughout history, humans have formed deep spiritual and cultural connections with animals. While pets are often cherished for their companionship, in many cultures, certain animals are believed to bring good fortune, wealth, and prosperity to their owners. From sacred cats in ancient Egypt to lucky fish in Chinese traditions, the belief in mystical pets has traveled across continents, carrying stories of blessings, abundance, and positive energy.In this article, we explore mystical pets from around the world that are associated with attracting wealth, their cultural significance, and how these beliefs continue to influence people today.

1. Cats – Guardians of Prosperity in Ancient Egypt and Beyond

Cats have long been associated with good fortune. In ancient Egypt, cats were considered sacred and linked to Bastet, the goddess of home, fertility, and protection. Egyptians believed that keeping a cat in the household could attract blessings and wealth while protecting the family from evil spirits and misfortune.

Even today, cats are seen as lucky animals in various cultures. In Japan, the famous Maneki-neko or “beckoning cat” statue is a common sight in shops and businesses, believed to attract customers and financial success. The raised paw of the cat is symbolic – the left paw invites customers, while the right paw brings wealth.

2. Goldfish – Symbols of Abundance in Chinese Culture

In Chinese culture, goldfish are more than just ornamental pets. They are powerful symbols of wealth, prosperity, and harmony. The word for fish in Mandarin, yú, sounds similar to the word for surplus or abundance, making goldfish a popular choice for attracting financial luck.

Keeping goldfish in a clean, well-maintained aquarium is believed to bring continuous flow of wealth and positive energy into a home or business. Feng Shui experts often recommend having eight goldfish (a lucky number in Chinese culture) and one black goldfish to ward off bad luck.

3. Elephants – Majestic Bearers of Good Fortune

While not a conventional pet for most people, elephants hold deep symbolic meaning in several cultures, particularly in India and Southeast Asia. In Hinduism, the elephant-headed god Ganesha is worshiped as the remover of obstacles and the bringer of prosperity.

Miniature elephant figurines or images are often kept in homes and offices to invite success, wisdom, and financial growth. In Thailand, white elephants are considered sacred and associated with royal power and good fortune. Some wealthy families have historically kept elephants as a sign of prestige and abundance.

4. Koi Fish – Symbols of Perseverance and Prosperity

Koi fish are celebrated in Japanese culture for their beauty and spiritual significance. They symbolize determination, success, and prosperity. According to legend, koi fish swim upstream and transform into dragons, representing the rewards of perseverance and hard work.

Keeping koi in outdoor ponds is believed to bring wealth and longevity to the household. Their vibrant colors – gold, orange, and red – are often linked to prosperity and happiness.

5. Dogs – Loyal Protectors and Prosperity Bringers

Dogs are known worldwide for their loyalty, but in certain cultures, they are also associated with financial blessings. In Chinese astrology, people born in the Year of the Dog are believed to attract good fortune and honesty.

In rural farming communities, a healthy dog is often seen as a sign that the home is well-protected and prosperous. In some traditions, feeding stray dogs is believed to invite blessings and remove financial hardships.

6. Parrots – Messengers of Fortune in South American and Asian Traditions

In many South American cultures, parrots are considered symbols of good luck and wealth due to their vibrant colors and intelligence. Their ability to mimic human speech is often seen as a gift that can attract positive energy and prosperity.

In Feng Shui, keeping a pair of parrots is thought to improve communication, harmony, and financial opportunities. In Indian traditions, green parrots are associated with the goddess Meenakshi and are believed to bless households with abundance and love.

7. Turtles – Longevity and Steady Wealth

Turtles are revered in many Asian cultures for their long lifespans and steady, patient nature. In Feng Shui, turtles represent stability, protection, and gradual financial growth.

Placing a turtle figurine or keeping a real turtle in an aquarium is thought to create a strong foundation for future prosperity. In some traditions, the turtle’s slow but steady pace is a reminder that wealth can be built over time through persistence and discipline.

8. Crickets – Tiny Symbols of Good Luck in Chinese Folklore

In ancient China, crickets were kept in cages not only for their melodious chirping but also because they were believed to bring good fortune. A cricket’s song was thought to signal an abundance of blessings and financial opportunities.

Even today, some people keep crickets in decorative cages or small enclosures as a charm for prosperity and happiness.

9. Rabbits – Symbols of Fertility and Fortune

Rabbits are often linked to fertility and abundance, making them a popular symbol of prosperity in various cultures. In Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Rabbit is associated with good luck, peace, and financial growth.

In Western traditions, carrying a rabbit’s foot (ethically sourced or symbolic) is considered a charm for wealth and success. In Japan, rabbits are seen as clever and lucky animals that help people achieve their goals.

10. Arowana Fish – The Dragon of Wealth

The arowana fish, often called the “dragon fish,” is one of the most expensive aquarium fish in the world. In Chinese culture, it is associated with wealth, power, and prestige. Its long body and shimmering scales resemble the mythical Chinese dragon, a creature believed to bring good fortune.

Many business owners keep arowana fish in their offices or homes to attract prosperity and protect against financial loss.

Why People Believe in Mystical Wealth-Bringing Pets

Beliefs about animals bringing wealth often stem from cultural traditions, folklore, and spiritual symbolism. Animals are seen as messengers of the divine, and their traits – such as loyalty, beauty, or perseverance – are linked to qualities that help humans succeed in life.

Psychologically, keeping such pets can also encourage positive habits. For example, caring for fish or turtles requires patience and consistency, qualities that are beneficial for managing wealth. The belief itself can foster optimism and motivation, which can indirectly influence financial success.

How to Invite Prosperity through Pets

If you are inspired by these traditions and wish to welcome a pet believed to bring wealth, here are a few tips:

Choose with Love and Responsibility – Select an animal you can genuinely care for, not just for luck. Maintain a Clean and Happy Environment – Positive energy is said to thrive in healthy surroundings. Combine Tradition with Practicality – Symbolic beliefs can be meaningful, but they work best when combined with real effort toward your goals. Respect Cultural Roots – Learn about the traditions associated with your pet and honor them respectfully.From the elegant goldfish swimming in crystal-clear water to the wise, slow-moving turtle, mystical pets have fascinated humans for centuries. Whether you believe in their power to bring wealth or simply admire their symbolic beauty, these animals carry rich cultural stories that remind us of the deep connection between nature and human prosperity.

Welcoming a mystical pet into your home is not just about hoping for financial blessings – it is about embracing the qualities they represent, such as perseverance, harmony, and protection, and applying them to your life. In the end, true prosperity comes from a blend of belief, action, and respect for the living beings we share our world with.

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