Feline Myths: Are Black Cats Good or Bad Luck?

There are often negative myths and superstitions around felines and their odd or quirky behavior. People have associated kitties with evil and witchcraft, and labels like ‘cat lady’ are often an insult. But no feline gets as bad a rap as black cats. These furry friends have many negative perceptions, stereotypes, and superstitions assigned to them. Have you ever wondered where the myth that black cats are bad luck comes from? Read on as Cat in a Flat unveils the mystery behind these kitties and debunks the black cats are bad luck myth!

Why do people say black cats are bad luck?

Why do people say black cats are bad luck? The persistent superstition that black cats are bad luck most likely stems from the medieval times. In the 13^th century, some cultures closely associated our dark-furred friends with witches and witchcraft. In 1233, Pope Gregory IX even went so far as to issue an official church document which declared black cats to be the reincarnation of Satan. 

Unfortunately, these kitties’ bad reputations followed them across the ocean from Europe to America. The infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692 only solidified the idea of the black cat as evil. Misinformed people believed that witches could transform into dark-furred felines and cast spells without anyone noticing. In other cases, following brutal and humiliating interrogations, women falsely accused of witchcraft ‘confessed’ to Satan appearing to them in the form of a black cat. 

Many cultures also considered any animal with dark feathers or fur — including ravens and crows—as symbols of death. If a black cat lay down by a sick person’s bed, it meant they would die. If a black cat crossed someone’s path, it meant bad luck would befall them. And if you spot a black cat during a funeral procession? Superstition states that another family member will die too. Luckily, none of these are true! 

Does anyone consider black cats good luck?

Does anyone consider black cats good luck? Fortunately for these dark felines, not everyone thinks they’re bad. Here are a few examples of black cats bringing good fortune! 

• Scotland: If you see a black cat hanging around your door, this is a sign that prosperity will soon be coming your way! But remember, if any kitty shows up randomly on your doorstep, they might be lost. Be sure to check for a microchip before permanently adopting them into your home! 
• France: In parts of France, black felines are sometimes called ‘magician cats’. And if you are kind to one of these kitties, you’ll reap great rewards. Of course, having any type fur friend in your life is a bonus. Find small ways to make Mr Whiskers’ life better and your furry friend will reward you with loyalty and affection. 
• Japan: A black cat crossing your path may be seen as bad luck in America, but in Japan it’s the opposite! If you encounter one of these dark felines, they’ll bring you good luck and prosperity.
• England: Perhaps one of the odder superstitions around these furry friends comes from England. It’s believed that gifting a couple a black cat on their wedding day will lead to a good marriage. Of course, it’s never recommended to just gift people cats, so maybe this one should stay safely in the past. 

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Impact of negative myths on black cats

Sadly, these negative myths and superstitions have followed black cats through the centuries. This translates into very real impacts on these wonderful felines. Large numbers of kitties end up in shelters every year, but dark-furred cats are often disproportionally represented. Not only are black kitties more likely to end up in shelters, but they also take longer than other felines to adopt out. 

Because they are so closely tied to superstitions around witches and witchcraft, black cats are often seen as a Halloween symbol. This means that some people will hurt (or worse) black cats on or around All Hallows’ Eve. Hence, many shelters will hold on to black cats throughout October until the holiday has passed. 

Is Halloween dangerous for my cat?

Is Halloween dangerous for my cat? Yes, this holiday can be dangerous for any type of feline. In general, it’s safer to always keep your fur friend indoors. However, this isn’t always possible—especially if your cat is used to going outside. You should take extra precautions around Halloween, especially if you have a dark-furred kitty.

Tips to keep your cat safe on Halloween:

• Keep a close eye on your kitty throughout October. Make sure they wear a collar with an ID tag and attach a tracker too. This will allow you to see where your cat is should they escape. If possible, aim to keep your cat indoors for the entire month. 
• Create a cat-friendly space indoors. If Mr Whiskers likes going outdoors, it might be a difficult adjustment to keep them in. Make sure to provide plenty of indoor stimulation such as cat scratching trees, window perches, and toys for self-play. 
• Spend extra time with your kitty. A little extra TLC around Halloween never hurts. Add a few more play sessions to your day and spend time cuddling or sleeping with your fur friend. They’ll love the attention! If you must be out for long hours, consider hiring a cat sitter to pop in to provide at-home day care. They can play with, feed, and spend time with your furry friend in your absence. 
• Buy your kitty some extra special toys around the holiday. Read up on which toys are dangerous for cats, and which are okay for solo playtime. 
• Avoid decorations or costumes that can scare your cat. Halloween is all about the jump-scares and spooky vibes, but your kitty won’t appreciate it the way you do! 
• Your furry friend may get stressed on Halloween—especially there’s more activity than usual happening in your neighborhood. Set up a quiet, safe space Mr Whiskers can retreat to if they feel anxious and minimize noise by turning on some calming music.

If you are considering bringing a new fur friend into your life, check out the black cats at your local shelter! Old myths and superstitions have given these kitties a reputation for bad luck, but they make loving, life-long companions just like any other type of fur friend. If you’d like more tips on how to give your new kitty the best possible care, check out our blog posts with safety tips for first-time owners and how to choose the best litter box for your cat.