If you see image or film that has anything to do with Halloween or witches, you are bound to see a black cat come up. That’s because of age-old myths. Because in the past – a very long time ago – people believed that black cats were bringers of bad luck. And in some cultures it was even believed that black cats could change shape and were hangers-on or spies of witches, demons or evil sorcerers.
Now you might think: what nonsense! This is just crazy superstition. And of course it is. But still, the prejudices about black cats are not completely out of this world.
Superstitions about black cats in Europe
They are few and far between, but in Europe some people still believe that a black cat brings you bad luck. Especially if a black cat crosses your path on Friday the 13th. In Germany, for example, some believe that it brings bad luck if a black cat crosses your path there from right to left. But if a black cat crosses your path from left to right, it actually brings you good luck. And in England, some people think it brings good luck if a black cat walks towards you. If a black cat runs away from you, it actually brings bad luck. None of this is true, of course. All superstition, of course.
Black cats are in shelters longer
But all these myths and stories of unhappiness unfortunately still make some people prefer not to take a black cat into their home. Consciously or unconsciously, people are more likely to choose a different colour. And that results in black cats (or cats with a lot of black in their fur) often spending three times as long in the shelter. Or that black kittens are chosen last or not at all from a litter.
All cats are cute!
The colour of a cat’s fur means nothing and the myths of old are complete nonsense. All cats are equally cute, sweet and intelligent – whether they are white, orange, grey or black. Or have all the colours of the rainbow. Black cats – like other cats – actually provide a lot of happiness and companionship to their owners.
We want to eliminate those unjustified prejudices about black cats once and for all. That’s why we asked real cat owners and cat mums to tell you why their black cat is so cute. Read along!
Black cats are awesome: here’s the proof!
Monique on her black tomcat Moosje
‘Our Moosje is blacker than black. And from day one, the sweetest little animal I have ever seen! I have two cats and Moos is the gentler of the two. Always sweet to people, but also to other animals. He used to be scared sometimes, but now he is very affectionate. Really a sociable animal. When my family is downstairs in the morning, he is so happy. And every evening he comes to lie with us – then he snuggles up to us. He loves to play, but prefers to be stroked all day long. And he also talks a lot. Everything is love with Moos.
We interviewed Monique about her cats. Read it here!
Diddeke on cat Mina
‘I have had several cats and there was actually always a black one among them. And they are often just as, or even more affectionate than the other cats I had. Now I live cosily with Mina. She had been in the shelter for three and a half months waiting for a new owner, but everyone passed her by because of her colour: she is black with a little white. I just thought she was lovely and took her home. And there is no question of unhappiness, I am very happy with her. She is the sweetest cat you can have!
We interviewed Diddeke about her cats. Read it here!
Ellen about Famke and Lizzy
‘My very first cat was called Famke and she was all black. I loved her, because her eyes stood out against that black fur. And she was very sweet – she always came to give me head and slept next to my pillow. She also liked to be outside, but always came immediately when I called her. Now I have no less than six cats, including another black one. That’s Lizzy, with her white moustache and chest. Lizzy also likes to be near me, always greets me when I come home from work and can have a lovely chat. So cosy! If I say something to her or call her name, she always answers. And she loves to cuddle. She really is a lovely pooch.’
We interviewed Ellen about her cats. Read it here!
Jeroen on Tinus
‘We adopted a beautiful black cat from the shelter. His name is Tinus and he is ten years old. I love all the cats we have (had), but Tinus is really a case apart. He is my big friend and I always call him that. Tinus is very gentle, there is no harm in it. And he is always happy – as soon as you look at him he starts purring. He always wants to cuddle and play. And when he is done with that, he goes on to his favourite daytime activity: being around his people. But he can also entertain himself quite well, you know. Tinus is a big sweet goody with a nice shiny black coat. He is not only sweet, but also very soft – as if he has fallen into fabric softener. My wife and I are crazy about our Tinus.
Meet Mina, Diddeke’s cuddle friend
We hope it is now really clear: all myths and stories about black cats and bad luck are superstitions and therefore not true. On the contrary. On the contrary, black cats are beautiful and just as wonderful and sweet as any other cat!
Disclaimer: Petrebels does not consist of veterinarians or behavioral experts: all content, information and tips on this blog are intended to inspire and inform you. Does your cat have complaints or problems and do you have doubts about your cat’s health? Then always go to the vet or a behavioral expert.
