Nekomata (猫又) - a yōkai which is the result of a cat transforming in old age. Similar to a bakeneko, another transformed cat, but with a much more malevolent nature. Nekomata like to torment humans through shapeshifting, setting fires and necromancy.
One of the requirements for a cat to transform was drinking lamp oil. Families could also be cursed if they killed a cat cruelly.

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