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Black Cat Bad Luck Myth

Black Cat Bad Luck Myth
by
November 13, 2024
in Humane Education Column
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By: Judy Hamontre, AVHS Vice Chair

Trick or treaters interrupt me as I write this article on Halloween, the night of ghosts, goblins, witches and black cats, the supposed bearers of bad luck.

My friend, Sue, who recently adopted two black kittens would disagree that black cats are evil.

Sue, who teaches medieval history, believes black cats often receive a bad reputation due to their association with Halloween, superstitions of the Middle Ages, witches and bad luck.

She and others feel this wicked outlook of black cats is unfair and delight in offering information, to debunk the bad rap black cats receive.

Holidays honor black cats. ASPCA celebrates August 17 as Black Cat Appreciation Day. October 27 is National Black Cat Day.

In many cultures black cats are good luck.

In ancient Egypt, black cats were held in the highest esteem because they resembled Bastet, the cat-headed Egyptian goddess of home, fertility, and protection from disease.

In Japan it is believed that single women who own ebony felines will have more suitors. In Great Britain’s Midlands, black cats are a valued wedding gift because they are thought to bring happiness to the bride and good fortune to the couple.

In Scotland a black cat arriving at a doorstep signals prosperity. In Welsh folklore, ebony felines are reliable predictors of weather. In Germany, Ireland and England a black cat crossing one’s path means good things are on the horizon.

Historically, British sailors brought black cats aboard their ships for good luck and to ensure a safe return. Some, such as Tiddles, are enshrined in maritime history. He traveled more than 30,000 miles with the Royal Navy.

Although there is much folklore history claiming cats bring good luck, the superstitions that labeled them as bad luck seem to dominate in North America today.

According to the National Library of Medicine, of all cats in shelters, black cats have the longest stays in shelters and the lowest rate of adoption. Even as kittens, those with a black coat are the last and least likely to be adopted.

People seem to want the prettier colored cats. Some say, they fear that in the dark they will trip over a pet with a black coat, and others admit they cannot shake the superstitions of bad luck and evil.

Even when potential adopters learn that black cats are more resistant to disease, they still often opt for a lighter colored cat or kitten.

Researchers at the National Institute of Health have discovered that black cats have increased resistance to diseases. The gene that gives them their black fur is also connected to the one that boosts their immune system.

There are 22 black cat breeds, according to Cat Fancier’s Association. The Bombay with its copper eyes and short-haired black coat is what most people picture. It was bred in the 1950’s by Nikki Horner, who was enamored with the look of panthers.

Fortunately in our valley, people must not be affected by superstition or fears and just see lovable balls of fur. The Ark-Valley Humane Society (AVHS) has good luck adopting black cats. Our Executive Director, Nikki Ritter has even seen colorful litters where the black kitten is the first to go.

If you are interested in adopting a cat or kitten, do not be fooled by superstitions. Right now there are 5 black kittens and a black mama cat at AVHS. Some may be ready for adoption by the time this article is published. Others are still so small, they need socialization which they will receive in foster homes. If you are interested, contact AVHS at ark-valley.org or phone 719-395-2737. Be the lucky person to bring a black cat into your life and heart.

 

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