Black Cat Appreciation

Celebrating Black Cats: From Myths to Must-Love Companions

One of Halloween’s most iconic symbols is the back cat. For centuries, these beautiful animals have carried a heavy weight of superstition, often linked to bad luck or witchcraft. But did you know that in many cultures, black cats are actually symbols of good fortune? Today, we’re showing appreciation for black cats as who they really are. They are loving, playful companions who deserve to be seen in all their magic.

The History and Myths

The myth that black cats bring bad luck dates back to the Middle Ages, when they became associated with witches and superstition. Some even believed that black cats were witches in disguise. These stories lingered in Western culture, unfairly shaping the way people viewed them.

But not all traditions saw black cats negatively. In Japan and the United Kingdom, they’ve been considered lucky. In ancient Egypt, black cats were honored and revered. These cultural differences show us that the “bad luck” label is nothing more than a story, not the truth.

The Reality Today

Unfortunately, superstition has left its mark. Even today, black cats are often overlooked in shelters, not only because of lingering myths but also because their dark coats can make them less noticeable in photos. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, black cats face an adoption bias known as “Black Cat Syndrome,” meaning they’re often adopted less frequently than cats of other colors. Additionally, these cats also have higher rates of euthanasia compared to lighter-colored cats.

Black cat appreciation is about exposing the truth. Black cats are just as affectionate, playful, and healthy as any other cat. In fact, their dark fur offers a unique advantage: they may be less prone to certain sun-related skin issues compared to lighter-colored cats.

Why We Should Celebrate Black Cats

Black cats deserve more than the shadows of old myths. They bring light, laughter, and comfort into the lives of their families every single day.

Showing them appreciation means pushing past superstition and recognizing the joy, beauty, and love they add to our homes.

This is Smudge, and she’s one of our beloved black cat clients. She’s very sweet, intensely devoted to her person, and loves spending time with her two sisters. Cats like Smudge remind us that black cats are not only wonderful companions, but also deeply loyal family members.

If you’re lucky enough to share your life with a black cat, you already know how loving, silly, and delightful they can be. And if you’re thinking about adopting, don’t overlook the black cats at the shelter, your perfect companion might just be waiting in a sleek, shiny coat.

From black cats to costume safety and beyond, we’ve got seasonal tips for every pet at Wet Noses Pet Sitting.