The rich folklore surrounding the black cat is varied, depending on different cultures.
In Scotland, black cats are linked to prosperity, especially when strange black felines visit one’s house.
In most parts of the UK and Japan, these kitties are also considered to bring good luck.
However, in many countries, black cats are often perceived as something unlucky or even evil. A popular superstition claims that if a black kitty crosses your path, it will trigger some sort of misfortune.
On the other hand, many people believe black cats are mystical creatures with supernatural powers. Sailors, fishermen, and ancient Egyptians used to worship these feline furballs.
Personally, I think they’re DELIGHTFUL! I have two of my own. So you know, to each their own, right?
Either way, black cats are adopted less often than their non-black friends at shelters all across the globe. That’s sad and horrible.
Whether it’s the lack of colorful fur coats or people’s superstitions, it’s a fact that cat owners prefer kitties that aren’t solid black. As a way to raise awareness for this issue, many people take part in the so-called Black Cat Day.
What Is Black Cat Day?
Black Cat Day is an unofficial holiday for pet parents, as well as for cat lovers who don’t own a kitty. It’s known as Black Cat Appreciation Day, as well as National Black Cat Day.
Many shelters and cat-related organizations hold contests, sales, and other types of events on Black Cat Day. The goal is to help people overcome their superstitions and to acknowledge the fact that a black kitty’s life and its rights to a good home matter just as much as the rights of any other kitten.
Black Cat Day is celebrated on August 17 and Oct. 27 in many countries.
This unofficial holiday also aims at getting the attention of potential owners who don’t have a feline pet yet. Black Cat Day is a great opportunity for many soon-to-be pet parents to adopt a black kitty, which would otherwise remain neglected, feared, or even abused.
Numerous reports show that black cats have higher chances of remaining in shelters or ending up homeless on the streets than cats of any other color. Taking part in Black Cat Day events is a great way to help black furballs all over the world.
How Can You Get Involved In Black Cat Day?
There is no particular place where Black Cat Day is celebrated, unlike most popular holidays. Nevertheless, you can get involved in several ways.
You can help local shelters either by donating, adopting, or spreading the word. Social networking websites, especially Instagram and Twitter, are a great way to raise awareness. Tons of black cat owners share, comment, and upload posts related to the holiday along with photos of feline furballs. You too can partake in the social media trend on Black Cat Day.
Last, but not least, you can celebrate with your own fluffy friend. Spend some quality bonding time with it, pet it, get a new interactive toy or some yummy cat treats. Or even try a brand new homemade recipe made especially for your furball!
If you’re a cat lover, but you don’t own a pet, you can adopt a black kitty on Black Cat Day. Even if you’re allergic to the Fel-d1 allergen agent, you can still enjoy life with a feline pet. Check out our article on the top 10 best cat breeds for people with allergies for some tips, tricks, and ideas on which breeds are safe for you.
Some Interesting Black Cat Facts
Due to the fact that they tend to be neglected and spend more time in shelters than their colorful counterparts, black cats are more likely to be more affectionate and loyal to the lucky pet parents who finally adopt them.
Black cats can be found among numerous feline breeds.
Some black kitties are actually tabby cats in disguise. Their tabby pattern genes are recessive, thus making their fur coat appear black.
Controlling cat hair is a pain for all pet parents. One advantage to owning a black furball is the fact that its hairs are less visible on your clothes and furniture pieces compared to the hairs of white or colorful cats (unless you’re always wearing white of course!).
There is a special black cat café in Himeji, Japan. It’s devoted only to black cats and has a strict policy on how visitors must treat the cats residing there. Everyone can play with, pet, admire, and even photograph the cats. However, visitors need to use only the toys provided from the café, respect the kitties’ napping schedules, and not pick up any of the cats. The café charges ¥1,000 per each hour (around $160 USD).
Black cats are great!!!!