National Black Cat Day: Myths & Fun Facts

Every year on October 27, cat lovers celebrate National Black Cat Day, a day to show some love for one of the most misunderstood pets around. Black cats are affectionate, playful, and every bit as wonderful as their colorful counterparts, yet centuries of superstition have given them a reputation they never earned.

Here's a look at where those myths came from, some fun facts about black cats, and simple ways you can help them find the homes they deserve.

Where Did the Black Cat Myth Come From?

The idea that black cats are bad luck largely traces back to medieval Europe, where cats, and black cats in particular, became associated with witchcraft. Folklore cast them as witches' companions, and that reputation stuck around for centuries.

Over time, the superstition carried over into popular sayings like "don't let a black cat cross your path." But it's just that: superstition. A cat's coat color has nothing to do with luck, and nothing to do with personality.

Black Cats Are Good Luck in Many Cultures

Not everyone sees black cats as a bad omen. In many places, they're considered just the opposite:

• Scotland: A black cat showing up on your doorstep has traditionally been seen as a sign of good fortune.
• Japan: Black cats are often viewed as lucky, and they're associated with warding off bad luck.
• Parts of England: Some traditions hold that a black cat crossing your path brings good luck, not bad.
• At sea: Sailors long kept cats aboard ships, and a black ship's cat was often thought to bring a safe voyage.

So depending on where you are, a black cat might be the luckiest thing that ever happens to you.

Fun Facts About Black Cats

• Black isn't a breed. More than 20 cat breeds can have solid black coats, including the Persian, Maine Coon, and American Shorthair.
• One breed is always black. The Bombay was developed to look like a miniature panther, with a sleek black coat and striking copper or gold eyes.
• Their coats can "rust." Spend enough time in the sun and some black cats develop reddish-brown highlights in their fur.
• Their eyes steal the show. Many black cats have gold, amber, or green eyes that stand out beautifully against their dark fur.

Why Black Cats Can Be Overlooked at Shelters

Many shelter workers and volunteers say black cats can be harder to place, and a few simple reasons often come up:

• They're tricky to photograph. Online adoption listings drive a lot of interest, and dark fur can make it hard to capture a cat's expression and personality in a photo.
• They can blend in. In a shelter full of cats, a black cat may not catch a visitor's eye as quickly as a bold orange tabby or a calico.
• Old superstitions linger. Even people who don't truly believe the myths may hesitate without realizing why.

It's worth noting that research on this is mixed. Black cats are also one of the most common coat colors, so plenty of them do get adopted. But many shelters still make an extra effort to spotlight their black cats, and every bit of attention helps.

Tips for Taking Great Photos of Your Black Cat

One of the easiest ways to help black cats is to show them off! Better photos help shelter cats get noticed, and they help break the "spooky" stereotype online. Try these tips:

• Use natural light. Place your cat near a bright window, but out of harsh direct sun.
• Skip the flash. Flash can flatten black fur and cause glowing "laser eyes."
• Choose a contrasting background. Light-colored blankets, rugs, or walls help your cat's shape stand out.
• Focus on the eyes. A sharp focus on those gold or green eyes brings the whole photo to life.
• Get down to their level. Eye-level shots feel more personal and show off personality.

How You Can Help Black Cats

• Adopt. If you're ready for a new family member, give the black cats at your local shelter a closer look. Not sure what to expect? Read our guide to adopting from a rescue organization.
• Foster. Fostering frees up shelter space and helps cats get comfortable in a home environment.
• Volunteer your camera skills. Many shelters welcome help taking better adoption photos.
• Share the love. Post a photo of your black cat on National Black Cat Day and help show the world how sweet they really are.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is National Black Cat Day?

National Black Cat Day is celebrated on October 27 every year. Black Cat Appreciation Day, a separate observance, falls on August 17.

Are black cats bad luck?

No. The idea comes from old European superstitions. In many cultures, including in Scotland and Japan, black cats are actually considered good luck.

Are black cats adopted less often?

Many shelters report black cats can be harder to place, often because they're harder to photograph. Research is mixed, but spotlighting black cats still helps them find homes faster.

What breed of cat is always black?

The Bombay is the only breed that is always black. Many other breeds, like the Persian and Maine Coon, can also have solid black coats.

Looking for more ways to celebrate your pets all year long? Check out our calendar of national pet holidays.