National Black Cat Day is just around the corner, scheduled for October 27th, 2024. You can expect all kinds of black cat owners to celebrate their favorite darker-themed kitty with online posts, local gatherings, and special treats.

It is amazing to consider how far black cats have come in recent history. These funny little creatures have fascinated humans for generations. From ancient superstitions to the sounds you hear on TikTok, let’s look a little closer at all things that you should know about Black Cats.

Fun Facts About Black Cats

1. Often Associated with Symbols and Beliefs

Pick up any history book about daily life in different times, and you’ll see black cats being linked to all kinds of beliefs and cultures. They represent omens of good and bad luck, depending on where you live.

In the Western world, black cats are most associated with using magic or supernatural thoughts. That is why you see them pop up in series like Bewitched or Sabrina the Teenage Witch on Netflix. A black cat represents good fortune if you live in Scotland or Japan.

Even Harvard University is in on the act with a black cat mascot, "Sphinx,” symbolizing wisdom and good luck.

2. History of Sailing

Sailors used to consider a black cat a symbol of clear seas ahead. Keeping a black cat on board would protect them from all kinds of bad weather, storms, and misfortune. Even wives of fishermen would keep black cats to help their husbands stay safe.

The odds are that this belief comes from black cats being good hunters and cutting down on mice or other pests on a shipping vessel.

3. Appear in American Art & Literature

American art and literature are littered with black cats as mysterious and wise creations. Edgar Allan Poe provided a chilling tale of The Black Cat, as did Neil Gaimon for Coraline.

Of course, there is also the frequent use of black cats throughout all Halloween decorations and memorabilia. Famous holiday-themed movies like Hocus Pocus from Disney have a black cat as a major supporting role, another reason they are iconic during National Black Cat Day.

4. Naturally Resistant to Disease

A lesser-known fact about all things that you should know about black cats is that they have a genetic mutation that protects their coats from certain diseases. Even HIV resistance is possible due to the genetic factors that may provide insight into how we can fight certain medical conditions common in humans.

5. Able to Change Color

A black cat with green eyes breed, or yellow eyes may begin to change color. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause “rusting” in your pet, where the fur changes to a reddish-brown color.

The pigment can sometimes be so pure and the fur so reflective that you may also see a deep purple under certain light conditions.

6. Not an Official Breed

A black cat is not an official breed. Any cat can have black or darker-colored fur. That is why you see so many black cats with unique personalities rather than a constant breed “feature.” The stigma of black cats being a unique breed is why they are often less likely to be adopted at a shelter unless in the fall months around Halloween.

7. Have Yellow Eyes

You tend to find black cats with some form of yellow or golden eyes. Locating a black cat with green eyes breed is much harder and tends to be more valuable from an owner's perspective. Whatever the color of the eyes, the contrast to the black fur makes the gaze of these loved creatures so penetrating.

5 Common Black Cat Breeds

While black cats are not an “official” breed, you can find some more common breeds with black or darker fur. These may include:

• American Bobtail: Has a distinctive shorter tail and more wilder physical appearance.
• Bombay: Resembles a “mini panther” with sleek coats and striking yellow eyes. They also tend to be super affectionate.
• Exotic Shorthair: Extremely shorter coat with a friendly disposition that acts a little like a Persian and has a laid-back style.
• Maine Coon: A large cat breed, often getting up to 15 to 25 pounds for a male. They are highly intelligent and easy to train.
• Cornish Rex: A curly-coated cat loved for its high energy and being the center of attention in a home.

FAQs

Why do black cats have bald spots?

Visit an event during National Black Cat Day, and you’ll find a few kitties with bald spots. The most common reason for this is allergies, skin conditions, or owners overgrooming their pets. A veterinarian visit will help alleviate the underlying reason.

Are black cats more likely to be adopted than cats of other colors?

Unfortunately, black cats get a bad rap. They are used so often in popular media as “bad actors” that the only time you’ll find a spike in adoption rates for them is during Halloween.

Are there any other works about black cats that are recommended?

The famous poster of Le Chat Noir representing a cabaret in Montmartre, Paris, is well known. As is The Black Cat by Edgar Allan Poe and The Cat Who Went to Heaven by Elizabeth Coatsworth.

Why do black cats often have glossy coats?

The thick density and smooth texture of black cat fur, a healthy diet, and solid grooming habits make the fur feel reflective and shiny under a certain light.

What does it mean if a black cat has green eyes?

A black cat with green eyes breed can be common, depending on where you live. Most have yellow or gold eyes due to varying melanin levels, green eyes simply add to the mystique of this beloved pet.

Wrapping Up

Owning a black cat is a fun and rewarding experience. While you can take the time to learn all things that you should know about black cats, the individual personality of your pet will always depend on your relationship.

An excellent way to boost that relationship is by purchasing the Pink Pet Car Booster Seat from Petbobi. This provides a lovely contrast between the cat’s deep black fur and a bright and funny color sure to make them shine.

Black cats make exceptional pets. You can cultivate a long-term relationship with these mysterious and hilarious kitties around your home with proper love, attention, and healthy habits.