National Black Cat Day

National Black Cat Day is held each year on October 27 to recognize the beauty of black cats.

Black cats are quintessential Halloween icons. Do you know how they got such a spooky rap?

Beginning in the Middle Ages, black cats became associated with Satan, witches, and witchcraft. Some people believed that black cats were cohorts to witches or even witches who had taken on another form. This wide-spread superstition resulted in the horrific mass killing of black cats, and sometimes even their owners. Today, many animal shelters won’t place black cats in homes during the month of October for fear of them being used sacrificially.

In some parts of the world, it’s believed that black cats can actually improve your love life. In Japan, single women who own black cats are believed to attract more suitors. In Great Britain, a black cat is the ideal wedding gift; believed to bring good luck and happiness to the bride.

Black cats are also believed to bring you good luck and improve your finances.

Historically, sailors brought cats aboard ships to hunt mice, but British sailors believed a black cat would bring the ship good luck and ensure a safe return home.

Pirates, however, believed a black cat walking toward them was bad luck, but a black cat walking away from them was good luck. If a black cat boarded the ship and then jumped off, the ship was going to sink.

In Scotland, a black cat arriving at your doorstep signals prosperity. In England and Ireland, a black cat crossing your path signals good luck.

Do you love or hate black cats?

Nancy Roe
Author