Throughout many cultures there are theories depicting black cats as omens of bad luck, a superstition that is still heard today. The belief that these creatures somehow relate to our own misfortunes has been endured for centuries, but this was not always the case.
My own black cat, Felix.
During the Egyptian rule, (3000 BC), cats were honored and worshipped. Killing one was even a capital crime. These animals were sacred to the ancient Egyptian society. Parts of Egypt even had a religion that worshiped animals, including our furry feline friends. Egyptians went through different forms of cat-like goddesses. The most recent being the goddess Bast, this cat goddess became the deity who represented fertility, motherhood and protection. Cats were loved, no matter their coloring. The Egyptians are not the only culture with an appreciative view of black cats, many cultures share this view such as the United Kingdom prior to spread of witchcraft.
In the 17th century, King Charles the first had a black cat who he loved so much he had it under 24-hour guard to keep it safe. When the cat passed away, Charles I was quoted saying "Alas my luck is gone!" The next day, he was arrested and charged with high treason and was executed. The Kings neighbors in Scotland have a similar view, believing that if a black cat is on your porch it is known to bring prosperity. There has been a constant fluctuation of ideas what a black cat brings throughout history.
Black cats were once the rock stars of the animal world, but then the perception of these fury creatures changed. While Europe was plagued with the fear of witchcraft, these creatures were cast aside as many believed they were in cahoots with the witches. The reason why black cats were hunted was due to the fact that the women who were accused of witchcraft had also take in the alley cats for their companions. This however later turned into the belief that they could turn into the cats they cared for. So in theory, the fear of witchcraft and black cats originated from older women taken care of strays. These women more commonly refereed to as, "crazy cat ladies."
They are regal creatures.
Black cats get a bad rep. Superstition has caused these cuddly creatures to be discarded. They have the lowest adoption rate and the highest euthanasia rate of their feline brethren. Black cats tend not to be adopted, and are often ignored by rescue groups. When a black cat crosses your path it is not to curse or condemn you it is simply because they were out for a walk.
She is walking, not haunting.
It seems as though these beautiful animals are only appreciated during the Halloween season. There are card board cutouts, stuffed animals, and costumes of them, while many black cats sit in shelters, feeling unwanted and longing for a forever home.
Give him a chance.
Black cats make great companions and shouldn't be ignored simply because of their coloring. History has shown us the good and the bad perceptions of these wonderful creatures. We do not need to go as far as to treat them as out gods, but I am sure we can find a middle ground so that our black furry friends can have a good quality of life.
I'm not saying they aren't ferocious...
A back cat crossing your path signifies that the animal is going somewhere.
-Groucho Marx
