Animal Mummies

Although humans have been the main subjects for mummification, animals were also mummified too. Many of the mummies found were animals that were cherished pets or mummies used as offerings to the gods. Such animals included cats, monkeys, hawks, and even small insects such as the praying mantis. Often times, animal mummies were overlooked when it came to deciphering the culture of the Ancient Egyptians.

This has proved to be a wrong tactic because many of the mummies unearthed are revealing a lot about the Egyptians. Scientists and Egyptologist are taking a second look at these mummies for that reason.

The Egyptians loved their pets and went to great lengths to keep them forever. Many of the common pets mummified were dogs, cats and monkeys. These animals were mummified and in most cases, careful effort was used to preserve them. The pets were depicted on tomb walls and were shown eating food or sitting under the chair of the deceased owner. Other depictions show the pets retrieving wild game shot down by their owners. Through these depictions we are able to see that pets were prized and loved just the same as in our modern societies.

Animal mummies were also used as offerings to gods and were important when making offerings. Some gods, such as Horus, who is represented by a falcon, was often left offerings. Often times it was difficult to breed falcons so sacrificial offerings were caught. If a falcon could not be offered to Hours, a false mummy was often constructed. This was quite common and done regularly.

Animal mummies were also used as offerings to gods and were important when making offerings. Some gods, such as Horus, who is represented by a falcon, was often left offerings. Often times it was difficult to breed falcons so sacrificial offerings were caught.