Black cats, cool facts about them you did not know

black cats

Cool facts about black cats you did not know

If “Sabrina, the Teenage Witch” is the first thing to come to mind when you hear about black cats, you are probably not alone. For centuries, these black furry friends have been associated with witchcraft. Even today, if a black cat crosses your way, it is considered a bad omen.

But there are some cool facts about black cats that you probably did not know about.

Black cat facts

  • The Cat Fanciers Association recognizes 22 cat breeds with a solid black coat.
  • Surprisingly, there are probably more black cats than any other color.
  • During the Middle Ages, when witches were hunted, so were their “familiars“, that is black cats.
  • There is an alleged connection between Pope Gregory IX decreeing the mass killing of cats, especially black ones, due to their connection to witchcraft. This helped spread the bubonic plague (black death) by increasing the population of rats during the 6th and 7th centuries. However, there is no documented evidence of this. Plus, poor hygiene in the Middle Ages was probably a more important factor to the spread of rats.

Black cats and luck

  • In some cultures, black cats are actually considered to be of good luck. For instance, in Japan, if you are a single lady and have a black cat, you will increase the number of admirers. In Germany, if one crosses your path, good fortune is on your way. In England, having a black cat brings good luck but having one cross your path is unlucky. Crazy, right?!
  • But it gets crazier. For pirates, if a black cat walks towards you, it is bad luck, but it is good luck if it is walking away from you. If you see a black cat enter the ship and then get off, get out of that ship-it will sink!

Love your black cat

So, it seems like black cats have received plenty of hate through the ages. All of it based on superstition and ignorance. In this modern age, if you own a black cat, love him as much as he deserves.

Here in Dogalize, you can find useful information and resources to help you raise a healthy cat. Visit us to learn more.