The Maneki Neko cat, also known as the welcoming cat or the cat that brings good luck, is a Japanese sculpture believed to bring good fortune to its owner.

The cat typically raises its paw and beckons people to come in, holding an ancient Japanese coin, the Koban. The lucky Maneki Neko cat wears a collar with a bell, which is believed to ward off evil spirits.

The word Maneki comes from the verb 'maneku,' which means 'to invite someone to enter' or 'to greet.' Neko means 'cat.' Together, they mean 'cat that invites people to enter.' According to Japanese tradition, the message this cat conveys with its paw is: 'Please come in. You are welcome.'