Black cats tend to get a bad reputation for a range of wrong reasons. Today on the blog, we will dispel these myths! And with the help of adoptive family members, we can prove that many of the myths surrounding them are false.
There Is No Cat Type As Misunderstood As Black Cats
Whether it's Black Cat Appreciation Day (August 17), National Black Cat Day (October 27), Black Cat Friday (November), or perhaps Black Cat Appreciation Month (October), these charming black gems are worthy of being in the spotlight at any time of year!
Did you know that of all the cat types, black cats are most likely to be abandoned and unlikely to be adopted from sanctuaries? It's depressing, but it's true, and there's just no reason for it. Throughout history, their black coloring has been bombarded with a host of associations—from prosperity and best of luck in Egyptian and Celtic mythology to dark magic and an ill-luck in Continental Europe, the US, and even in Canada.
Early American travelers and settlers thought that black cats were witch's familiars and that they were demonic! On the other hand, seafarers liked black cat breeds as companions on ships because they meant good luck.
In the Middle Ages, Europeans believed that black felines were witch familiars or shape-shifting witches in animal form. In 16th-century Italy, it was thought that a sure death would come if a black cat lays on a person's sickbed. In Germany, it is said that if a cat crosses your way from right to left, you will meet with back luck. And, in most Western cultures, black cats have been considered as symbols of bad omens.
On the other hand, if you live in the UK or Japan, a black cat crossing your way means good luck will come to you. In China, the older and the blacker a cat is, the luckier it is for those who have it. People in Scotland consider black cats appearing at their door as a sign of prosperity. And Latvian farmers who find black kitties near their grain bins eagerly anticipate a bountiful harvest.
21 Black Cat Breeds with Gorgeous Black Coats
All those said, black cats have so much more to contribute to your life than whatever superstitious claims. The Cat Fanciers' Association recognizes these 21 black feline breeds with unique characteristics and personalities. Some are cuddly, some are peaceful, but every black cat should be able to find its fur-ever home!
1. Bombay
Attractive Bombay cats are often black! There's occasionally a sable-colored kitty in a clutter, but these occurrences are rare. The Bombay is a generally calm cat, but they are also energetic. Bombay cats love spending quality time with their families, including other pets present in the house. They can be talkative and take pleasure in learning new tricks.
2. Japanese Bobtail
These cheeky cats are among the oldest cat types and are known as good luck charms throughout their native Japan. They can be long or short-haired, but all felines of this breed will undoubtedly have that charming bobbed tail. Japanese Bobtails love playing fun games and can be trained to do a few tricks!
3. Devon Rex
These cats have a curly coat and wag their tails like a dog! Their pixie-shaped face makes them an adorable addition to any household. Devon Rex cats are a wanderer and are highly sociable cats, so you can expect a Devon Rex to follow you around your house, wanting your attention. A common piece of advice on cats with curly furs is to refrain from frequent brushing to keep their curls looking perm!
4. Scottish Fold
These sweet cats have distinctive folded ears that give the breed their name. All Scottish Fold cats can map their lineage back to Susie, the first cat known to possess folded ears. These spirited and friendly cats love the presence of humans, so they won't appreciate being left house alone all day.
5. Norwegian Forest Cat
These fluffy beauties are an ancient breed belonging to Norway, where they were common "ratters" on Viking longships. They are called "skogkatt," which translates to "forest cat." The enormous Norwegian Forest Cat can mature to a whopping 12 pounds, but don't let the size frighten you! These cats are a sweet and mild breed. They like finding high areas in the house to watch the world go by. They're moderately independent. The Norwegian Forest Cat is best fit for chillier environments, as their water-resistant double coat has evolved to cope with the severe Scandinavian winter seasons.
6. Chantilly-Tiffany
These friendly and singing cats love to chat away to their proprietors, making use of a series of pleasant chirrups and tiny meows. They have a medium-length coat that calls for weekly brushing. These lively cats prefer the company of people than to be left alone all day.
7. American Bobtail
The American Bobtail is a clever and spirited breed, so you'll never be bored with this cat in your house! These cats have a muscular body and short tails that are typically 1 to 4 inches long. The American Bobtail makes an excellent household cat and even enjoys walks on a leash and harness.
8. British Shorthair
These laidback felines appreciate spending playtime with their owners, but they're equally as content to huddle for a nap while you're out and about. These beefy cats are the earliest British breed and have originated from Egyptian cats imported to England.
9. American Shorthair
These guys are so popular (and numerous). According to the Cat Fancier's Association, they're mild, make perfect family pets for those with children, and generally live a long life. Like many breeds, they can be found in various colors, but they are best known in black. Some kitty cats with black coats will have smoky colors on their belly and tail, but these typically turn to black in their adult years.
American Shorthairs are adaptable and not fretted by a busy home with lots of comings and goings. They're outstanding cats with an independent streak. They may curl up next to you or may go about their day alone.
American Shorthair trivia: the forefather to the modern-day American Shorthair may have arrived in America via the Mayflower.
10. Siberian
These robust felines enjoy playing plenty of games and can quickly be trained. They likewise enjoy playing with water, as well as staying high on perch to enjoy the view. They get on well with strangers and make an excellent choice for a house with other pets and children.
11. Sphynx
The unique Sphynx is a typically hairless feline whose color and markings reveal on its skin. Some say the pink variation of this pet cat resembles a plucked chicken; however, we assume that the Sphynx black cat is lovable! Wrinkly and grumpy-looking, with massive ears and a bat-like appearance, the coal colored Sphynx cat seems like a top-quality suede jacket to touch.
The Sphynx can be called a shadow cat for how they'll follow their proprietors about. While they are called "'hairless," they do have a fine layer of fluff. Sphynx cats need special maintenance to eliminate the oils that develop on their skin.
12. American Curl
These charming cats have unique crinkled ears and are sometimes called the "Peter Pan" cat because they retain a playful and kittenish disposition even as they age. They're affixed to their families, so they appreciate staying at home where their humans are constantly present.
13. Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex sport a wavy coat and gigantic ears, making it unique and adorable. These frisky felines like to be a part of energetic homes with lots of opportunities for games and communications with their humans.
14. Exotic Shorthair
The chunky Exotic Shorthair is also known as the "lazy man's Persian" because they look to Persians, minus the high-maintenance coat. These felines are delicate and enjoy living in a quieter house.
15. Maine Coon
Maine Coon feline is the largest cat type, boasting several Guinness Records for virtually everything related to being a large, heavy, and long feline. Regardless of their size, these cats are gentle and also extremely loving. Maine Coons get along with their humans. While typically tabby cats, an entirely black Maine Coon is a sight to witness! Their big paws and ears are both covered with tufts of fur to help shield them from cool and snowy weather.
16. Oriental Shorthair
This type is derived from the Siamese and can have either long or short coats. Orientals are attached to their humans and love living in a house where they can get constant attention. Black-coated Orientals are referred to as "ebony" because of their color.
Oriental Shorthairs are clever and also analytical and can be demanding. These felines want to be involved in every household task, sometimes even making a ruckus in the attempt.
17. Persian
These cats sure do need a good deal of grooming! They can be lively but are more known for wanting to curl up for a nap. While Persians like affection, they can be pretty fussy about whom they choose to bond with. They're the finest fit for a quiet family's residence.
18. Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex has a soft and curly coat and is among the more recent natural breeds to be found. A kind breed, these felines like spending quality time with people and hitting it off with pets and other cats.
19. Turkish Angora
Like its "fellow Turkish man," the Angora rabbit, the Turkish Angora has exceptionally soft and luxurious hair. This old feline breed is identifiable by its small head, thick tail, and slender body. They are very friendly and intelligent cats and might play host at your supper celebrations. They will happily cope with pets and children, but being quite an assertive breed, they may end up being demanding.
These cats are attractive, and they know it! You can anticipate your Turkish Angora to enjoy being the center of attention and be treated like the royalty they know they are.
20. Ragamuffin
Ragamuffins are adorable and loving cats. Consistent with the "rags" in their names, they will go limp in your arms in the littlest petting and will offer lots of love and affection. Ragamuffins are a large and characterful type that can conveniently be trained. This attractive black cat breed has a thick, soft, mild maintenance coat and a calm nature, making them an ideal fit for families with children.
21. Selkirk Rex
This extremely curly feline has Persian heritage, evident in its large eyes, flat nose, and round head. One of the cuddliest black cat breeds, Selkirks can look unpleasant with their curly layer. However, you should avoid daily brushing, or they'll lose those lovely curls. They are incredibly calm and patient cats, excellent for families where they can blend in.
22. Bonus: A Rescue Cat
Last but never EVER the least, a black rescue cat from a sanctuary is arguably the best option if you want to adopt a black cat. Black cats, in general, have a more challenging time finding homes than cats of other coat colors.
Eight Reasons To Adopt A Black Cat
If those adorable photos are not yet enough for you, here are more reasons to adopt black cats now!
1. Let us begin with the absolute outward elegance of the coat. Black cats look exceptional. If the cat is fed high-quality food and well cared for, the dense coal black coat should be sleek, shiny, and simply gorgeous.
2. In addition to the black feline's elegance, they also resemble a little panther beautifully wandering around. It's like have a little piece of the wild inside your house! A black cat walking or going through the house is the image of grace, stealth, mystery as well as charm.
3. The eyes of a black cat are dazzling against the black fur. Some black felines have green eyes; others have gold ones. Nevertheless, those lovely eyes are flawlessly arresting against the black hair. When a black cat is checking you out, it's hard not to stand in awe of the expression in those magnificent eyes.
4. Research suggests that the hereditary mutation in black felines may make them more immune to specific health problems, such as feline immunodeficiency virus or FIV
5. Black cats have long suffered cruelty and terrible treatments due to misconceptions and superstitious notions. For numerous years, countless of these wrong beliefs. Black cats are not significantly different than other cats. By taking on a black feline, you can help end these mistaken beliefs. Friends and family that might negatively see black cats will have a chance to see yours at home and realize how incorrect their notions are.
6. Black cats are generally readily available at sanctuaries. Such elegance awaits at many regional animal shelters. Though many unenlightened individuals might pass by the black cat due to false impressions, you can be the lucky one that offers a fur-ever home to a black feline that is so deserving.
7. Your black cat will undoubtedly help you in becoming a better photographer! It takes a bit more ability to get the facial attributes of a black cat on camera. It takes some angles, lighting, and skill to highlight the sleekness of the sensational dark coloring and for their facial features to show beautifully. If done right, black cats produce the most attractive photos!
8. While the dark coloring in the coats of these cats is commonly seen as bad luck, they are signs of good luck in other places. In numerous nations, a black cat is considered as good luck. Rather than relying on misfortune, choose to believe the good luck that black felines bring!
Black cats make the best furry pets the same way that other cats make the best pets! It is the unique bond and the love between you and your cat that matters the most! By believing black cats are harbingers of bad luck or associated with evil, we rob the cats (and the individuals who will miss out on experiencing the love they bring) of an opportunity to live their best lives.
