If you’ve been diving into the world of witchcraft, you’ve probably heard about familiars. These mystical companions—often animals—are said to assist witches in their magical practice. But how do you call a familiar? Is it as simple as summoning one with a spell, or is there more to the process? Let’s unravel the mystery together.
What Is a Familiar?
Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “what.” A familiar isn’t just a pet. It’s a spiritual ally, believed to guide and support witches during rituals, spells, or everyday life. Familiars can be animals like cats, dogs, owls, or snakes, but they might also appear as spirit guides or energies.
Do You Choose the Familiar, or Does the Familiar Choose You?
Here’s the thing: familiars aren’t something you can order online (wouldn’t that be nice?). They’re believed to choose you based on your energy, intentions, and connection to the magical world. So instead of “calling” them like you would a lost dog, you focus on opening yourself up to their presence.
Steps to Call or Attract a Familiar
If you’re ready to welcome a familiar into your witchcraft practice, here’s a simple guide to get started:
1. Set Your Intention
Everything in witchcraft starts with intention. Ask yourself why you want a familiar. Is it for guidance? Protection? Support in your rituals? Be clear and honest with your desires.
2. Create a Welcoming Space
Familiars are drawn to environments where they feel safe and respected. Set up a cozy corner in your home with candles, crystals, and symbols of protection. A little offering, like food or a small trinket, might also help.
3. Meditate and Connect Spiritually
Meditation is a great way to tune into the energy around you. Light some incense, sit quietly, and focus on the idea of your familiar. Visualize them coming to you—not forcing it, but inviting their presence.
4. Look for Signs
Your familiar might not appear immediately. Stay open to the world around you. Maybe a stray cat starts visiting your home, or you feel a strong connection to a bird you see every day. Trust your instincts—your familiar may already be trying to connect.
5. Use a Calling Spell (Optional)
If you feel drawn to use magic, you can cast a simple spell to call your familiar:
- Gather a candle, a small bowl of water, and an object representing the type of familiar you hope to connect with (like a feather for a bird or a photo of an animal).
- Light the candle, focus your intention, and say:
“Spirits of the wild and free,
Guide my familiar to me.
With love and trust, our bond shall be,
Together in harmony, so mote it be.” - Let the candle burn out safely and keep your object as a token of your intention.
Signs You’ve Found Your Familiar
Once you’ve connected with a familiar, there are some telltale signs:
- You feel an unexplainable bond with them.
- They seem to understand your emotions or intentions.
- They’re often present during your rituals or meditation sessions.
- They bring a sense of calm, protection, or energy to your space.
Do Familiars Have to Be Real Animals?
Not at all! While many witches have physical animals as familiars, others connect with spiritual familiars. These could be entities you feel in your meditative state or even energies represented by objects like crystals or talismans.
A Word of Caution
If your familiar is a physical animal, remember they’re not there just to serve your magical needs. They’re living beings with their own feelings and needs. Always treat them with kindness and respect, and never force them to participate in rituals they’re uncomfortable with.
Final Thoughts
Calling a familiar for witchcraft is more about building a connection than issuing a command. Whether it’s a loyal cat, a wise bird, or a spiritual guide, your familiar will arrive when the time is right. Be patient, stay open, and trust in the magic of your practice.
And if you’re looking for tools to enhance your rituals or create the perfect welcoming space for your familiar, check out our mystical collections at Gothic Style. We’ve got everything you need to make your practice uniquely yours.
Happy casting—and may your familiar find their way to you! ✨
