Lucky waving cats, also known as Maneki Neko, are more than just charming décor pieces — each colour carries its own symbolic meaning.
From attracting wealth and good fortune to encouraging love, health, and protection, the colour of a lucky cat is believed to influence the kind of luck it brings. In this guide, we break down what lucky cat colours mean and how to choose the one that best fits your intentions.
Ochre - Stability
The ochre lucky cat symbolises stability and grounding, representing a strong and steady foundation. Often associated with warmth and balance, the ochre Maneki Neko is a meaningful gift for family, expressing wishes for harmony, security, and lasting support at home.
Galaxy - Unity
The galaxy lucky cat symbolises unity and harmony, representing the power of cooperation and togetherness. Often associated with balance and interconnectedness, the galaxy Maneki Neko reflects the importance of living in harmony with others and growing collectively as a community, making it a meaningful symbol of shared progress and mutual support.
Neon Orange - Energy
The neon orange lucky cat symbolises energy, joie de vivre, and motivation, reflecting a vibrant and dynamic spirit. Its bright neon orange colour represents drive, enthusiasm, and the courage to explore new paths, making this Maneki Neko a powerful symbol of positivity, action, and bold new beginnings.
Turquoise - Friendship
The turquoise lucky cat symbolises friendship, health, and emotional well-being. Often associated with harmony and balance, the turquoise Maneki Neko represents the importance of strong relationships, family, and meaningful friendships, while also emphasising self-care as a key part of personal happiness and overall well-being.
Yellow - Wealth
The yellow lucky cat symbolises wealth, prosperity, and abundance, making it one of the most popular Maneki Neko colours. Often associated with financial success and positive energy, the yellow Maneki Neko is believed to attract good fortune and opportunities. As a traditional Japanese talisman, it makes a wonderful gift for family and friends — or a meaningful charm for yourself — representing success, happiness, and lasting prosperity.
Purple - Optimism
The purple lucky cat symbolises optimism, wisdom, and positive transformation. Often associated with inspiration and clarity, the purple Maneki Neko is believed to encourage a hopeful outlook and personal growth. As a new colour addition and a traditional Japanese talisman, it makes a meaningful gift for family and friends — or a thoughtful keepsake for yourself — representing optimism, balance, and new beginnings.
Gold - Wealth
The gold lucky cat symbolises wealth, good luck, and wise decision-making, making it one of the most iconic Maneki Neko colours. Known for attracting prosperity and success, the gold Maneki Neko is believed not only to beckon good fortune but also to act as a guardian of positive outcomes, helping you make the right decisions. As a traditional Japanese talisman, it represents abundance, protection, and long-term success.
Black - Protection
The black lucky cat symbolises protection, purification, and good luck. Often associated with warding off negativity, the black Maneki Neko is believed not only to attract good fortune but also to keep the environment pure and clean by protecting against negative influences. As a traditional Japanese talisman, it represents safety, resilience, and positive energy.
Red - Good Luck
The red lucky cat symbolises good luck, courage, and positive energy. Traditionally associated with protection and vitality, the red Maneki Neko is believed to attract good fortune while encouraging bravery and confidence. Representing strength and determination, this beckoning cat symbolises the courage to face challenges head-on and move forward with resilience and self-belief.
Pink - Romance
The pink Maneki Neko symbolises love, romance, and affection. Associated with emotional warmth and gentle energy, it is believed to attract romantic connections, deepen relationships, and create a welcoming atmosphere. Popular as a meaningful gift, the pink lucky cat represents compassion, harmony, and heartfelt bonds.
Moonlight - Inspiration
The Moonlight Maneki Neko symbolises inspiration, creativity, and inner guidance. Associated with calm reflection and intuitive energy, this colour is believed to spark new ideas, clarity of thought, and personal growth. Often chosen by creatives and dreamers, the moonlight lucky cat represents gentle motivation, imagination, and quiet confidence.
Light Green - Relaxation
The light green Maneki Neko symbolises relaxation, peace, and serenity. This calming colour is associated with balance and renewal, helping to create a harmonious and stress-free atmosphere in any space. Often chosen for homes and work environments, the light green lucky cat represents tranquillity, emotional calm, and gentle positive energy.
Berry Red - Love
The berry red Maneki Neko symbolises love in all its forms, from self-love and emotional wellbeing to affection and meaningful connections with others. This rich red hue represents warmth, passion, and heartfelt energy, making it a powerful symbol of compassion, confidence, and positive relationships. Often chosen as a meaningful gift, the berry red lucky cat encourages love, harmony, and emotional balance in everyday life.
Green - Togetherness
The green Maneki Neko symbolises strong togetherness, meaningful connection, and protection. Associated with harmony and stability, this colour represents unity, mutual support, and safeguarding relationships. Often chosen for families and shared spaces, the green lucky cat is believed to foster trust, resilience, and a sense of collective well-being.
Deep Yellow - Joy
The deep yellow Maneki Neko symbolises joy, happiness, and uplifting energy. This bright, cheerful colour is associated with optimism and positivity, helping to boost mood and create a feel-good atmosphere. Often chosen as a decorative accent or thoughtful gift, the deep yellow lucky cat represents cheerfulness, warmth, and everyday happiness.
Mint Green - Health
The mint green Maneki Neko symbolises health, vitality, and relaxation. Its soft, calming colour is associated with renewal and gentle energy, helping to create a peaceful and healthy environment. Often chosen for homes and workspaces, the mint green lucky cat represents wellness, balance, and everyday harmony.
White - Peace
The white Maneki Neko symbolises peace, purity, and new beginnings. Traditionally regarded as the classic lucky cat colour, white represents calm energy and harmony, helping to create a peaceful and balanced environment. Often placed in homes or gifted for fresh starts, the white lucky cat is associated with serenity, clarity, and positive intentions.
Vivid Green - Intensity
The vivid green Maneki Neko symbolises intensity, strong energy, and bold vitality. This striking shade of green represents drive, focus, and powerful momentum, making it ideal for those seeking motivation and dynamic growth. Often chosen as a statement piece, the vivid green lucky cat embodies strength, determination, and high-energy positivity.
Violet - Self Confidence
The violet Maneki Neko symbolises self-confidence, inner strength, and personal empowerment. Often associated with wisdom and self-belief, this colour represents trusting oneself, embracing individuality, and standing with quiet assurance. Chosen by those seeking motivation and self-growth, the violet lucky cat encourages confidence, clarity, and a strong sense of identity.
Peach - Hope
The peach Maneki Neko symbolises hope, renewal, and gentle optimism. This soft, comforting colour is associated with encouragement and emotional warmth, helping to inspire a positive outlook and calm reassurance. Often chosen as a thoughtful gift, the peach lucky cat represents new possibilities, kindness, and uplifting energy.
Hot Pink - Rebellion
The hot pink Maneki Neko symbolises rebellion, self-determination, and the courage to be different. Bold and expressive, this vibrant colour represents individuality, confidence, and fearless self-expression. Often chosen by those who embrace originality, the hot pink lucky cat encourages breaking norms, standing out, and owning one’s identity.
Grey - Stability
The grey Maneki Neko symbolises stability, balance, and reliability. This neutral and grounding colour is associated with calm strength and steady support, helping to create a secure and harmonious environment. Often chosen for modern homes and workspaces, the grey lucky cat represents consistency, resilience, and quiet confidence.
Dark Blue - Honesty
The dark blue Maneki Neko symbolises honesty, trust, and integrity. This deep, calming colour is associated with clear communication and reliability, helping to foster truthfulness and mutual respect. Often chosen for workspaces or meaningful gifts, the dark blue lucky cat represents sincerity, confidence, and dependable energy.
Light Blue - Tenderness
The light blue Maneki Neko symbolises tenderness, gentleness, and emotional calm. This soft, soothing colour is associated with compassion and peaceful communication, helping to create a serene and comforting atmosphere. Often chosen as a thoughtful gift, the light blue lucky cat represents care, sensitivity, and quiet reassurance.
With a colour for every mood and intention, Maneki Neko cat colours offer a meaningful way to express personal energy while bringing positive symbolism into everyday life.