Are good luck cats Chinese or Japanese?

Could you please clarify the origins of the so-called 'good luck cats'? Are they a traditional Chinese symbol, or do they originate from Japan? This question has been a matter of debate among many culture enthusiasts and collectors of folkloric artifacts. Some argue that the cats, often depicted with raised paws, are deeply rooted in Chinese folklore and symbolize prosperity and good fortune. However, others contend that this particular symbol emerged in Japan, specifically as a cultural phenomenon tied to the Meiji period. Could you shed some light on this intriguing cultural mystery and provide some historical context?