Considerate Cat Tarot

The Considerate Cat Tarot is a complete 78-card tarot deck created by artist Madeleine Belanger, featuring charming illustrations of cats that embody the essence of each card's meaning. Launched successfully on Kickstarter in 2018, the deck was a personal project that grew into a widely supported endeavor. Each card integrates cat behavior, symbolism, or the story of a real rescue cat, adding a unique and heartfelt layer to traditional tarot interpretations.

Belanger designed the deck with traditional tarot in mind, ensuring that the Major Arcana and the four Minor Arcana suits (Cups, Wands, Swords, and Pentacles) are recognizable to experienced readers while offering a fresh, accessible perspective. The artwork is intended to be rich in detail, encouraging readers to discover new nuances with each viewing and to draw their own intuitive meanings from the imagery. This approach makes the deck suitable for both seasoned tarot practitioners and those new to the practice.

The physical deck is printed on heavy-weighted linen cardstock, measuring 70x120mm, a standard tarot size. It comes housed in a two-piece rigid box, designed for durability and ease of storage, with a small ribbon inside for added elegance. The project's success allowed for self-publication, giving the artist full creative control over the final product and ensuring her original vision was maintained.

This deck is perfect for cat lovers and tarot enthusiasts who appreciate whimsical, gentle artwork. It appeals to beginners seeking an approachable entry into tarot, as the cat imagery can make the learning process more engaging and less intimidating. Experienced readers looking for a charming, intuitive deck with a strong animal theme will also find it a delightful addition to their collection. It's particularly suited for those who value decks with a personal story and a focus on animal welfare.

Madeleine Belanger embarked on the Considerate Cat Tarot project as a personal challenge, aiming to complete a large-scale artistic endeavor from start to finish. What began as a private pursuit to create a visually appealing tarot deck for her own use quickly grew into a project she felt compelled to share. After an initial rejection from a publisher, Belanger embraced self-publishing through Kickstarter, a path she ultimately found empowering as it allowed her 100% creative control over the deck's development and final presentation.