Kaibyō

The reason that cats are often depicted as yōkai in Japanese mythology can be attributed to many of their characteristics: for example, the irises of their eyes change shape depending on the time of day; their fur can seem to cause sparks when they are petted (due to static electricity); they sometimes lick blood; they can walk without making audible sounds; their sharp claws and teeth; their nocturnal habits; and their speed and agility.

[3][4] The bakeneko (化け猫, "changed cat") is a yōkai that appears in legends in various parts of Japan.

The figurines are often displayed in shops, restaurants, pachinko parlors, laundromats, bars, casinos, hotels, nightclubs, and other businesses, generally near the entrance.

[9] "Monster cat" or "ghost cat" films (kaibyō eiga or bake neko mono) are a subgenre of Japanese horror films featuring kaibyō, derived primarily from the repertoire of kabuki theatre.

[10] However, the subgenre experienced a resurgence of popularity in the 1950s and 1960s due to actress Takako Irie appearing in "monster cat" film roles.