The animal associated with the Egyptian goddess Bastet is the cat. Bastet is often depicted with the head of a lioness or domestic cat, symbolizing her protective nature and nurturing qualities. She is the goddess of home, fertility, and domesticity, as well as the protector of the pharaoh. Cats were revered in ancient Egypt, associated with Bastet for their grace and hunting abilities, particularly in controlling vermin. Killing a cat was considered a serious offense, emphasizing their sacred status within Egyptian society.