Classification: Mythical Beasts & Cryptids

Temporal Range: 13th to 18th Century

Geographic Range: Mountainous regions, Japan

Diet: Human flesh

Descending from the mountains to terrorize the populace, the Nekomata is described as a beastly cat the size of a dog. This creature is easily recognizable due to its large size, ability to walk on its hind legs, and most notably, its forked tail.

There are two kinds of Nekomata: those originating from the mountains and old domestic cats that escaped into the mountains and transformed into Nekomata. Both types possess incredible supernatural powers, including shapeshifting. Domestic Nekomata are often believed to first target their former owners, devouring them and then taking their form to rule the household.

Nekomata also wields the power of necromancy, using corpses as puppets. So if you ever spot a two-tailed cat walking on its hind legs, it is strongly advised to walk the other way immediately. Otherwise, you risk becoming either a meal or a puppet, and neither fate is particularly desirable.