I learned a white cat being a Japanese symbol for luck on Animal Planet. It was Cats 101, if memory serves me. Shops often display a cat figure, with one paw raised, to beckon or welcome customers. The name for this custom is Maneki Neko. 
I don’t know if Hello Kitty is a modern version of this old tradition, but I couldn’t resist the one that I found.
I have a lifetime love of cats and have had several wonderful feline companions. A cat frequently makes an appearance in my paintings.
I have nothing against dogs; cats just made it my heart faster.
For more detailed info on this custom, its history and legends, click here or here .
For more on the Japanese bobtail Cat, click here
