Thursday marks Black Cat Appreciation Day, a celebration dedicated to challenging the long-standing myths surrounding black cats and honoring them as the beloved companions they are.
A History of Misunderstood Felines
The origins of black cats’ association with bad luck in Western culture remain unclear, though theories abound. In Japan and parts of the U.K., black cats are considered good luck, while Celtic mythology introduces the cat sìth, a fairy creature believed to steal souls—a possible link to later witchcraft associations.
Norse legend adds another layer: Freya, the goddess of love and fertility, rode a chariot pulled by two black cats. After seven years of service, the cats were said to transform into witches—a tale that may have fueled superstitions.
The Church’s Role in Demonizing Black Cats
One documented source of anti-black cat sentiment traces back to Pope Gregory IX, whose 1232 papal bull Vox in Rama declared the black cat an incarnation of Satan. This condemnation worsened during the Dark Ages, when cats were burned in bonfires during Christian holidays, including Easter and the Feast of Saint John.
A rare exception was King Charles I of England, who cherished his black cat as a good luck charm. Upon its death, he reportedly lamented, “And so my good luck leaves me.” The next day, he was arrested for treason and later executed.
From Witchcraft to Workers’ Rights
The Salem Witch Trials further cemented black cats’ ties to the occult in America. But by the 19th century, their symbolism shifted. Anarchists and labor activists adopted the black cat as a symbol of resistance, with the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) using Ralph Chaplin’s iconic design—a hissing, arched-back cat—to represent sabotage and worker solidarity.
Modern Challenges: Allergies and Adoption Bias
A 2000 study revealed that dark-colored cats may produce more allergens than lighter ones, potentially explaining some historical aversion. Today, black cats still face adoption hurdles, with some shelters reporting 50% lower adoption rates compared to other cats.
Breaking the Superstition
This Black Cat Appreciation Day, advocates urge the public to look beyond myths and give these elegant felines the love they deserve. After centuries of bad press, it’s time to rewrite their story—one adoption at a time.
Related topics:
