Tarot readings for pets: What is your dog or cat trying to tell you?

Our pets already act like mysterious little sages. Your cat stares at you like they know all your secrets. Your dog tilts their head with the seriousness of a therapist in mid-session. But as much as we adore them, we often find ourselves wondering: what are they really thinking?

Apparently, we're not alone. In the past month alone, global searches for "What is my dog thinking when he stares at me" shot up by 5,000%. Can this be a spiritual quest? Now that pet tarot readings are becoming a thing; more animal lovers wonder if the cards might have the answers.

© Getty Images

According to the experts at online psychic service Psychic World, pet tarot is about more than Instagrammable woo-woo. It's a genuine tool for emotional bonding, insight, and even healing. 

Here's how to do a reading that taps into your pet's inner world, without making them wear a wizard hat (unless they want to, of course).

First Things First: Create the Vibe

You wouldn't want someone reading your aura under fluorescent office lights, and neither does your dog. Set the mood in a spot where your pet feels safe; this could be their bed, the backyard, or wherever they like to chill. Light a candle if it feels right. Play some relaxing, pet-friendly music. Take a deep breath.

"Animals may not speak our language, but they have a tendency to communicate on an energetic level," says professional astrologer Antonella. "Tarot readings provide a unique way to tune into this frequency in a powerful way."

© Getty Images

Pick a Deck, Any Deck

Technically, you don't need a tarot deck made specifically for animals. But a deck with strong, clear visuals helps when interpreting through your pet's eyes. If you're just dipping your paws in, Antonella recommends consulting an experienced psychic, especially if you're unsure what each card might mean in the context of your pet's personality.

"The professional will pull the most appropriate cards for your reading and explain what each card means," she says. Still, if you'd rather DIY it with your favorite deck and a bit of intuition, that works too.

Connect With Your Pet's Energy

Before you touch the cards, tune into your furry friend. Sit with them, pet them, and hand over a snack as a peace offering. You're not just setting the tone; you're syncing your energy with theirs. This isn't about you talking to your pet. It's about listening.

© Getty Images

Ask the Big Questions

What's on your heart? What do you want to understand better? Some go-to questions that can unlock some powerful insights:

1. Does my pet carry any past trauma?
2. Why are they acting anxious lately?
3. What can I do to strengthen our bond?
4. Am I missing something in their behavior?
5. If they could talk, what would they say right now?

"You might already have your questions ready, or they may come to you during the reading," Antonella notes. "Psychics love it when you give the reading a direction. Remember, no one knows your pet better than you."

This is your chance to advocate for your little buddy and hear what they'd never say out loud (because they can't).

Shuffle, Draw, Let the Magic Begin

As you focus on your question, shuffle your cards. If your pet feels playful or curious, let it sniff or paw at the deck. Some animals naturally gravitate toward the process; you might be surprised how often they choose a card themselves.

© Getty Images/Westend61

If they prefer to snooze through it, draw 1 to 3 cards yourself. Antonella says: "Don't lose faith. It's rare to get all the answers in one reading. Sometimes things won't make sense right away—and that's completely normal. Insights often come through repeated readings."

Interpret the Cards (Through Their Eyes)

Now comes the fun part. Look at the cards, think about their traditional meanings, but layer that with what you know about your pet. The Tower might suggest anxiety triggered by a sudden change (e.g., a new house, a new pet sitter, etc.).

The Sun? That's pure contentment and good health. A Knight could signal your dog's sudden obsession with guarding the front door like a medieval sentry.

© Getty Images/amana images RF

Don't overthink it. You're not trying to be perfect; you're trying to be present.

Close the Session with Gratitude

You've opened up some energy and asked the universe for a little help. Now, say thank you. Give your pet a treat, a cuddle, a happy dance—whatever feels right.

Antonella recommends journaling each session as "It can be a valuable reference point for future reflection and sessions." You might spot patterns, make connections, or even see long-term shifts in your pet's behavior.

Keep an Eye Out

Finally, observe. Watch how your pet acts in the hours or days after the reading. Do they seem calmer? More affectionate? Less stressed?

Antonella explains: "Your pet communicates in subtle ways, whether it's a glance, a stretch or a sigh. As you read the cards, pay close attention to their behaviour. Their response might be the key to unlocking what the tarot is truly trying to say."

© Getty Images

No, tarot isn't going to replace your vet. And it won't teach your cat to text you their feelings. But it is a surprisingly tender, intentional way to connect with the creature who spends every day by your side.

It's about pausing, tuning in, and honoring the fact that, beneath the barking, meowing, and tail wagging, your pet has a story, too.