5 Facts About Black Cats You Probably Didn't Know

Many people think of black cats as unlucky or associate them with witches and Halloween — images less rooted in fact than superstition and cultural bias. Black cats, despite their association with bad luck in some cultures, are actually considered lucky in certain parts of the world. You may already be aware that the ancient Egyptians revered cats of all colors, including black ones, as sacred animals with mystical powers. Indeed, their status ascended to that of symbols of the divine, offering protection and companionship even beyond this earthly existence and into the next life.

They continue to fascinate and bedevil (in the best ways) us to this day. For example, did you know that their fur has a unique ability related to light absorption and reflection due to excess melanin? Black cats have many fascinating characteristics, some of which go beyond fur-deep, that might surprise you. Curious to learn more? Here are some surprising facts about black cats you probably didn't know.

While there are 22 recognized cat breeds that can have solid black coats, the Bombay stands out as the only breed that is always black. This unique characteristic sets the Bombay apart from other black-coated cats and makes it a distinctive and beloved breed.

The origins of the Bombay can be traced back to the 1950s. It was created through a carefully planned breeding program by Nikki Horner, a Kentucky-based cat breeder. Horner aimed to combine the sleek, muscular body of the American Shorthair with the striking black coat of the Sable Burmese. The first successful crossbreed of the Bombay occurred in 1966, and the Cat Fanciers' Association officially recognized the breed in 1970.

The Bombay's appearance is reminiscent of a miniature black panther. It has a sleek, compact body with well-developed muscles and a rounded head. Its most distinctive feature is its glossy and dense jet-black coat. The breed's coat is so dark that it appears to absorb light, giving it an almost mystical aura. In addition to its striking appearance, the Bombay breed is known for its unique characteristics, including its affectionate and outgoing personality. These cats are incredibly social and crave human interaction. They are often described as "Velcro cats" due to their love of being held and cuddled. Bombays are also highly intelligent and curious, making them excellent companion animals for people of all ages.

It might come as a surprise, but a black cat's fur can change color from sitting in the sun. This happens because the sun's UV rays break down the pigment, eumelanin, which gives the fur its black color. As the eumelanin degrades, the fur loses its ability to absorb light efficiently, causing it to lighten into a reddish-brown hue. The extent of this rusting effect varies depending on the cat's genetics, health, and the duration of sun exposure. In some cases, the fading occurs gradually; in others, it can happen more quickly, especially if the cat spends long periods in direct sunlight.

Beyond sun exposure, another reason for a black cat's fur changing color is a deficiency in tyrosine, an amino acid needed to produce eumelanin. If a black cat's diet lacks enough tyrosine, its fur can fade. Adjusting the cat's diet or providing tyrosine supplements can help restore the dark color.

While these factors are the most common causes of fur fading, significant changes in coat color can sometimes signal underlying health problems, such as liver or thyroid issues. If your cat's fur changes dramatically, it's wise to consult a veterinarian. It's also important for cat owners to be mindful of sun exposure since overexposure to UV rays can pose health risks, including skin cancer. Providing shaded areas and limiting time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours, is key to keeping cats safe and healthy.

There is a common misconception that all black cats sport yellow peepers. However, the same pigment responsible for their black fur, eumelanin, also influences their eye color. As such, black cats can have many a range of eye colors, including yellow, gold, orange, copper, or green.

High levels of eumelanin in black cats typically result in both black fur and warm-toned eyes like yellow or orange. The gene responsible for black fur is dominant, so if a cat inherits it, the black coat is likely to be paired with these eye colors. While rare, some black cats can have blue eyes, a trait seen in the breed Ojos Azules (Spanish for "blue eyes"), which can be black with striking blue eyes.

The belief that black cats bring bad luck is not universal and varies across cultures. However, in medieval Europe, they became linked to witchcraft. Black cats were thought to be witches' familiars or even witches in disguise, leading to their persecution. Some believe this contributed to the spread of the bubonic plague, as killing cats reduced rodent control.

In contrast, black cats were seen positively in other contexts. British sailors believed black cats brought good luck on ships, helping ensure safe voyages by controlling rodents. Fishermen's wives also kept black house cats, believing they would protect their husbands at sea. In Japan, black cats are considered lucky, especially in love, as they are thought to attract suitors to single women. Similarly, Scottish folklore views a black cat on the doorstep as a sign of prosperity, while in France, black cats are called "money cats" and are associated with financial fortune.

Throughout history and across cultures, black cats have been seen as both lucky and unlucky, with negative perceptions largely based on fear rather than fact.

Black cats, long shrouded in superstition and myth, continue to be associated with bad luck, witchcraft, and misfortune. Sadly, spurious alignment has had a profound impact on their adoption rates in shelters, according to a 2020 study. Compared to cats of other colors, black cats tend to linger in shelters, waiting longer for their forever homes. Unfortunately, the stigma against black cats is real and persistent. This unfair bias makes it harder for black cats to find their human families, despite the fact that their fur color has no bearing on their personalities or behavior.

Animal welfare organizations, such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, are working to combat these negative stereotypes through education and awareness campaigns that promote the adoption of black cats. By challenging these myths, they aim to give black cats an equal chance at being adopted and loved. One place actively changing this perception is Nekobiyaka Cat Cafe in Himeji, Japan, the world's first and only cafe dedicated exclusively to black cats. Since opening in 2013, Nekobiyaka has helped black cats find forever homes, offering them a second chance and helping to break the stigma. Even during the struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cafe continued its mission with the help of donations. Inside the cafe, each black cat wears a colorful bandana, allowing guests to tell them apart while watching them explore their thoughtfully designed environment.

By debunking the myths and embracing the beauty and uniqueness of black cats, we can foster a more compassionate society where all cats, regardless of color, have an equal opportunity to find loving homes.