Black cats are usually portrayed with its back arched, claws out, and occasionally wearing a jaunty pointed hat. Local news channels warn us to keep black cats inside on Halloween just in case the local hooligans decide to get up to some nasty hijinks.
But where did the fear of these beautiful animals come from? Anyone who lives with a cat knows how fortunate they are to have a cat in their life -- so why are they considered unlucky?
But where did the fear of these beautiful animals come from? Anyone who lives with a cat knows how fortunate they are to have a cat in their life -- so why are they considered unlucky?
Divine Cats:
The ancient Egyptians honored cats of every color. Cats were mighty and strong, and held sacred. Two of the most amazing goddesses in the Egyptian pantheon were Bast and Sekhmet, worhsipped as long ago as 3000 b.c.e. Family cats were adorned with jewelry and fancy collars, and even had pierced ears. If a cat died, the entire family went into mourning, and sent the cat off to the next world with a great ceremony. For thousands of years, the cat held a position of divinity in Egypt.
The Witch's Familiar:
Around the time of the Middle Ages, the cat became associated with witches and witchcraft. Around the late 1300's, a group of witches in France were accused of worshipping the Devil in the form of a cat. It may be because of the cat's nocturnal nature that it became connected to witches -- after all, night time was the time they held their meetings, as far as the church was concerned.
Contemporary Cats:
Around the time of World War Two, when the American tradition of Halloween as trick-or-treat time really got underway, cats became a big part of the holiday decoration. This time around, however, they were considered a good luck charm -- a black cat at your door would scare away any evil critters that might come a'calling.
Most people are far less superstitious today than they were in the Middle Ages, but the black cat remains part of our late October decor.
Most people are far less superstitious today than they were in the Middle Ages, but the black cat remains part of our late October decor.
Black Cat Folklore and Legends:
- Sixteenth-century Italians believed that if a black cat jumped on the bed of an ill person, the person would soon die.
- In Colonial America, Scottish immigrants believed that a black cat entering a wake was bad luck, and could indicated the death of a family member.
- The Norse goddess Freyja drove a chariot pulled by a pair of black cats.
- A Roman solder killed a black cat in Egypt, and was killed by an angry mob of locals.
- Appalachian folklore said that if you had a stye on the eyelid, rubbing the tail of a black cat on it would make the stye go away.
- If you find a single white hair on your otherwise-black cat, it's a good omen.
- In England's border countries and southern Scotland, a strange black cat on the front porch brings good fortune.
The Mysterious Allure of Black Cats:
Black cats have always fascinated people, not just because of their sleek, elegant appearance, but also due to the myths and legends that surround them. In Japan, a black cat crossing your path is considered a sign of good fortune. Meanwhile, in many parts of Europe, black cats are believed to bring wealth and prosperity. Sailors traditionally viewed black cats as lucky mascots, often bringing them aboard ships to ensure a safe voyage. The contrast in beliefs makes black cats a subject of endless curiosity and study.
Why Do People Link Black Cats to Bad Luck?
The association of black cats with bad luck can be traced back to medieval Europe. During the Spanish Inquisition, black cats were thought to be the preferred companions of witches and were thus linked to witchcraft and the devil. This perception was exacerbated by the church, which promoted such superstitions to maintain societal control. It's important to note that **black cats** in other cultures are seen quite positively. For instance, in **Great Britain and Japan, black cats are considered lucky** and symbolize good fortune.
Understanding Cat Coat Genetics:
The unique black coats of these fascinating felines come from a dominant allele of a specific gene. This genetic characteristic not only gives them a striking appearance but also appears to be linked with certain health advantages. Studies have suggested that the melanism gene responsible for the black fur might offer some immunity benefits, protecting these cats against certain diseases. **Knowing the science behind their stunning appearance** can further enhance our appreciation and understanding of these animals.
Care Tips for Black Cats:
Owning a black cat requires the same care as any other cat, but there are a few specific considerations to keep in mind:
- Sun Protection: While their dark coats are beautiful, they can attract heat. Ensure they have plenty of shade and fresh water on hot days.
- Visibility: Black cats can be harder to see at night, so it's advisable to equip them with reflective or light-colored collars.
- Photos: If you enjoy photographing your pet, remember that lighting is key. Natural light works best to highlight their features.
Adopting a Black Cat:
Adopting a black cat can be an immensely rewarding experience. Sadly, these beautiful animals are often the last to be adopted in shelters due to prevailing superstitions. By adopting a black cat, not only do you gain a loyal and loving companion, but you also help challenge the stigma associated with them. Look out for local shelters and rescue organizations that may have adoption events, especially around Halloween when adoption rates for black cats can be lower.
Additional Resources:
For those interested in learning more about the fascinating history and care of black cats, consider visiting the following:
- ASPCA: Provides comprehensive guides on cat care and adoption.
- JSTOR: Access scholarly articles about the historical perceptions of black cats.
- National Geographic: Offers engaging articles on animal behavior and genetics.
