Facts about Black Cats: Did you know that black cats are considered good luck in many cultures? In Japan, for example, black cats are thought to bring fortune to those who own them.
Black cats were often associated with witchcraft and evil in the Middle Ages. This is likely because they were often seen as familiars of witches. Black cats were also thought to be able to turn into witches themselves.
Despite their reputation, black cats are considered good luck in many cultures. In some cultures, they are even thought to have magical powers.
So, if you’re thinking of getting a black cat, you just might be in for some good luck!
Here are 10 lesser-known facts about black cats that are explained in detail;
1. They are Considered a Sailor’s Best Friend
Cats were not only permitted to board British ships to hunt mice, but sailors also considered a black cat to be particularly lucky and protect a safe return. Tiddles, for example, served with the Royal Navy for more than 30,000 miles throughout his life.
See also; Top 20 Awesome Black Cat Breeds You’ll Want to Take Home.
2. There is No Such Thing as a Single Black Cat Breed
The Norwegian Forest Cat, Japanese Bobtail, and Scottish Fold are three examples of cats with a black coat recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA). Still, the Bombay breed is most people’s image of a “black cat.”
Their resemblance to a “black panther” is merely a coincidence. In the 1950s, Nikki Horner fell in love with how black panthers looked and decided to breed a cat like them. She thereby created what we now know as the Bombay.
3. Black Cats are Readily Adopted
Although it may appear that black cats in shelters are waiting for the longest to be adopted, an ASPCA poll claims otherwise. Although euthanasia rates for black cats were among the highest, their total number of adoptions was the most of any hue. According to the study’s veterinarian, there might be more black cats than other hues because people have a selective taste.
4. The Black Cats’ Fur can Rust
A genetic quirk causes a black cat’s color. The black fur gene has three variants (solid black, brown, and cinnamon), and the hue works in tandem with the pattern. Heavy sun exposure can cause eumelanin pigments in a cat’s hair to break down, revealing its lost stripes as it formerly appeared (another potential reason: nutritional inadequacy). The old color of this cat was dark rusty brown.
5. Their Black Fur Gene Protects them from Illnesses
Despite their reputation, black cats may be having the last laugh, according to some experts. The gene that causes a cat’s fur to be black is in the same genetic family as genes associated with human disease resistance. Some scientists think that the color of these cats has less to do with concealment and more to do with disease resistance. They’re hoping that mapping more cat genomes will help us get one step closer to curing HIV.
6. They have a Cafe of their Own
Get ready for your wildest cat lady fantasies to come true at the Nekobiyaka in Himeji, Japan, where you’ll step through the doors and be greeted by these black cats. The stars of this café are black cats, and visitors are welcome to pet (but not pick up) them. Nekobiyaka’s identical-looking black cats wear a different colored bandana to prevent catastrophic mix-ups.
7. It’s Difficult to Photograph a Black Cat
The modern-day challenge for black cat owners is not bad luck but rather a poor lighting. In an age when individuals post photographs of their pets on Instagram, black cats may be out of focus in images. One photographer’s suggestion? Minimalist backdrops allow your subject to stand out.
8. Certain Cultures see Black Cats as Good Luck
While a black cat crossing your path in the United States is considered bad luck, this isn’t the case in all cultures. For example, a black cat is considered good luck in the United Kingdom. And in Japan, black cats are seen as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.
See also; Top 10 most expensive cat breeds.
9. Black Cats Make Great Pets
Despite their dark reputation, black cats can make great pets. They’re just as loving and affectionate as any other cat and make great companions. So if you’re looking for a new furry friend, don’t let superstitions hold you back — adopt a black cat!
See also; Top 10 most popular pets in America.
10. Black is majestic
Black is majestic; undoubtedly, black cats are majestic beings, and bringing one home can be both fun and an unforgettable experience.
