For centuries, black cats have endured a serious PR problem! Thanks to medieval myths, spooky folklore, and Halloween marketing, they’ve been branded as unlucky.
But here’s the truth: black cats are more likely to trip you in the dark than curse you.
It’s time to bust the black cat superstition wide open and give these sleek, gorgeous felines the reputation glow-up they deserve.
Where the black cat bad rap began:
The black cat superstition began in medieval Europe, when people linked cats with mystery because of their nocturnal habits. Black cats, in particular, looked even more otherworldly under the moonlight.
Witchcraft fears ran rampant, and folklore claimed witches could transform into black cats to roam unnoticed at night. As a result, simply owning one could make you a target during witch hunts.
… And unfortunately, black cat energy still lingers today
Fast forward a few hundred years, and pop culture kept the stereotype alive. From creepy Halloween decorations to horror movies, black cat energy has become shorthand for “spooky.”
Sadly, these lingering myths still affect real cats today, with some animal shelters reporting lower adoption rates for black cats compared to others:
- Black kittens wait 10 times longer^ for adoption than kittens of other colours.
- Black adult cats spend almost twice as long in care compared to ginger or tortoiseshell cats.
The real truth about black cats
Science has a much less dramatic explanation for black coats: it’s simply a genetic trait. In fact, some researchers believe the mutation responsible for black fur may also offer health benefits, such as a slightly stronger immune system.
And personality-wise? They’re just as loving, cheeky, and playful as any other cat. If anything, they’re often more affectionate than their mysterious reputation suggests.
The meaning of a black cat around the world:
Thankfully not every culture bought into the bad luck myth! In many parts of the world, black cats are celebrated as symbols of prosperity, love, and protection.
🇯🇵 Japan — In Japanese folklore, single women who own a black cat are thought to attract more suitors. Black cats are also believed to ward off illness and evil spirits.
🏴 Scotland — A black cat appearing at your home is said to be a sign that wealth is on its way.
🇬🇧 England — Traditionally, black cats were given as wedding gifts to bring happiness to a marriage. Fishermen’s wives kept them at home for safe voyages and a bountiful catch.
🇫🇷 France — Folklore speaks of “matagots,” magical black cats that bring fortune if treated with care and respect.
🇪🇬 Ancient Egypt — Cats of all colours were revered, but sleek black ones were often linked to the goddess Bastet, the protector of home and family.
🇩🇪 Germany — Direction matters: a black cat crossing from left to right means good fortune is coming your way.
So, are black cats bad luck? No!
It’s clear the black cat superstition has overstayed its welcome. If we were to rebrand these beautiful felines, they’d be:
The midnight panther of your living room
The style icon of the feline world
Your personal good-luck charm with whiskers
Black cats don’t bring bad luck. They are the luck! So the next time a black cat crosses your path, don’t flinch… follow them. You never know, they might just be leading you toward something wonderful.
Find out more about the history of the cat >
^Source: RSPCA Victoria
