Off The Record
Why Are Black Cats Feared? The History Of This Unlucky Symbol
You can make a lifelong, devoted friend by spending a few moment with a black cat. However, these dark, attractive, and amiable cats have suffered for generations due to historical and cultural myths, superstitions, and stories that either glorify or terrify them. Are black cats unlucky, then?
The idea that black cats are less likely than other colored cats to be adopted is untrue. However, because of persistent stereotypes, shelter staff may observe prejudice toward black cats.
It may surprise you to learn that there are some positive views about black cats among the negative ones.
If you see one of these majestic animals crossing your path at any time of day or night, you might even conclude that it is auspicious.
Superstition #1: Black Cats Are Witches in Disguise
If seeing a black cat makes you uneasy, it’s most likely due to medieval folklore that still obscures these noble cats’ reputation. Witches and witchcraft have traditionally been linked to black cats.
The myth is claimed to have started when a black cat was spotted racing inside a house that was believed to be occupied by a witch.
Black cats were associated with black magic during the Middle Ages. Black cats that roamed around at night were believed to be either witches’ pets, witches in disguise, or animal-shaped demons dispatched by witches to spy on people.
Black cats and people deemed witches were put to death from the early 13th century in Europe until the Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts in the 17th century.
Particularly around Halloween, black cats have come to represent anything associated with witchcraft.
Superstition #2: Black Cats Are Bad Luck
Additionally, a black cat is linked to misfortune and, regrettably, death.
This phobia of black cats seems to have its roots in medieval times, when dark-furred or feathered animals, such as ravens and crows, were thought to portend death.
A black cat lying on a patient’s sickbed was considered a sign of impending death in 16th-century Italy. Black cats still carry negative connotations in contemporary North America: it’s said that if a black cat happens to cross your path, it’s bad luck, and if a white cat does, it’s good luck.
If you see a black cat during a funeral procession, another family member will undoubtedly perish.
Additionally, seeing a black cat leave you is a negative sign. Thankfully, these notions are all superstitious.
Superstition #3: Black Cats Are Good Luck
Many people also attribute good fortune to black cats. Black cats were highly prized in ancient Egypt because they resembled Bastet, the cat-headed Egyptian goddess of fertility, home, and protection from illness. In other regions of the world, black cats are also regarded as lucky.
- Owning a black cat is considered lucky in Asia and the U.K.
- In Japan, you’ll have luck in finding love if you spot a black cat.
- In parts of England, a bride will have luck in her marriage if she receives a black cat as a gift.
- In Europe, sailors will have a safe journey if they bring along a black cat on the ship.
- In Scotland, you’ll have coming prosperity if a black cat appears at your doorway or on your porch.
- In France, something magical is about to happen if you see a black cat.
In other cultures, seeing a black cat in your dreams, seeing one approaching you, or even finding a lone white hair on its shiny ebony fur are all considered lucky charms.
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