There's a unique elegance to a black cat, and you can see it in everything they do, from stalking a toy like a small panther to napping like a sleek shadow on a bookshelf.
Yet, despite their striking looks and charming personalities, black cats are often the last to be chosen at animal shelters. They tend to wait much longer than other cats to find their forever home. That's why this Sunday, August 17th, is National Black Cat Appreciation Day, a perfect time to shine a light on why they're so special.
History of Black Cat Appreciation Day
Black Cat Appreciation Day has a touching origin story. It was started in 2011 by Wayne H. Morris to honor his sister and her beloved 20-year-old black cat, Sinbad, after they both passed away in the same year. He hoped the day would help challenge the old superstitions surrounding black cats, and it has grown in popularity ever since.
From bad luck to beloved companions…
A big reason for this day is to help dispel the old superstition that a black cat crossing your path is a sign of bad luck. That idea took hold during the Middle Ages, when people started unfairly associating black cats with witches, and the negative reputation stuck for centuries.
But that’s far from the whole story. In many other cultures, a black cat is actually a sign of good things—in Japan, they're believed to bring good fortune, and in parts of Britain, having one cross your path is considered a blessing.
From the mysterious Luna in Sailor Moon and the loyal Thackery Binx in Hocus Pocus to the witty Bagheera in The Jungle Book, pop culture also celebrates black cats as the cool, faithful companions they truly are.
This day is all about celebrating these wonderful animals and finally leaving the outdated myths behind.
4 Great Ways to Celebrate the Day
There are so many meaningful ways to honor black cats, whether you have one at home, are looking to adopt, or just want to show your support.
#1 Give an overlooked cat a home
If you're ready to welcome a new feline family member, consider making today the day you visit a local shelter. Ask specifically to meet their black cats. These wonderful animals are often unfairly overlooked, so giving one a loving, permanent home is perhaps the most powerful way to celebrate the occasion.
#2 Make your cat the star
And if you already share your home with a cat, especially a sleek black one, make today all about them. Shower them with extra attention, break out that new feather toy you've been saving, offer up a brand-new cat scratcher, or just give them their favorite treats. It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate the joy they bring into your life every day.
#3 Support your local shelter
Even if you can't adopt, you can still make a huge difference. A donation of supplies or funds to your local animal rescue helps them care for all the cats waiting for their forever families. Supporting their work is a fantastic way to honor these animals and earn a little good karma from the feline world.
#4 Spotlight your cat on social media
Flood your social media feeds with adorable pictures and reels of your black cat! Sharing a funny story or a sweet photo is a simple but powerful way to show your followers, friends, and family just how loving and special these pets are, helping to replace old superstitions with happy, real-life moments.
Their Black Coat Might Be a Sign of Good Health
Here’s a fascinating fact! A black cat's fur might be more than just beautiful—it could also be a sign of good health.
Scientists have discovered that the gene responsible for their dark, striking coat is also linked to a stronger immune system, which may help protect them from certain diseases. What's even more incredible is that this very same gene family is connected to the one that gives some humans resistance to viruses like HIV.
While more research is needed, it’s a powerful reminder that there’s so much more to these amazing animals than meets the eye.
More Reasons to Love Black Cat Appreciation Day
There are so many reasons to love Black Cat Appreciation Day, starting with the fact that these animals are considered powerful good luck charms in many cultures. In Scottish lore, a black cat arriving at your home is a sign of good fortune, and fishermen have long believed they bring luck on their voyages.
Their special qualities go beyond just myth, too. A black cat's striking dark fur, which often contrasts with brilliant yellow eyes, is linked to a stronger immune system that can help protect them from certain illnesses.
And on a lighter note, their iconic look has inspired one of the easiest and most classic Halloween costumes around, making them a go-to for any last-minute party.
Happy Black Cat Appreciation Day!
