Fall is in the air! Along with pumpkin spice everything, black cats are a symbol of the season. Not only are they often featured in some of our favorite seasonal movies, black cats also get their own holidays with Black Cat Appreciation Day (August 17th), National Black Cat Day (October 27th), Black Cat Friday (November), and Black Cat Appreciation Month (October). We believe black cats should be celebrated all year round. Learn more about black cats below!
Why are black cats black?
Black fur is all based on genetics! According to Caster, black cats must have both parents who carry the black fur gene. Cats with black fur high melanin pigment which also gives them their eye color. Tabby is actually the most common fur color and black cats must also carry a recessive gene that hides any underlying coloring to appear all black. Black cats can also rust due to heavy exposure to the sun. You might also notice your kitty going grey! Just like us, all cats will grow white hair with age, it’s just more noticeable with black cats.
Did you know that black cats are also more resilient to disease? Caster reports that research being done shows the genetic mutation that makes cats black also makes them more resilient to FIV. This study is also being used to try and understand HIV treatment for humans too!
Black breeds
According to Daily Paws, the Cat Fancier’s Association recognizes 23 black cat breeds! Because each breed is different, they all come unique purr-sonalities! Here some additional facts about a couple of the breeds.
The Bombay is the only breed that is almost always black with copper or green eyes. This breed was created to so we could have our very own miniature house panther and is known for being the center of attention, playful, and curious. The American shorthair is known for its golden eyes and is very popular. American shorthairs are sweet, loving, and low maintenance. British shorthairs are distinct because of their round face and pudgy appearance. This cat is calm and easygoing.
Why are black cats considered bad luck?
Black cats are associated with witches, Halloween, and back luck. How did they get this association? The belief that black cats are bad luck started back in the Middle Ages. The story goes that a father and son came across a black cat at night and threw rocks at it until the cat fled into the house of a woman who was suspected to be a witch. The next morning, the father and son saw the woman who appeared to be injured, creating the superstition that witches could turn into black cats. Also, due to the color of their fur, black cats were associated with death.
In some cultures, black cats are considered good luck! In Japan, having a black cat can help you find love! Sailors also believe black cats on deck mean a safe trip.
We believe black cats are always good luck!
