We’ve all heard that a black cat crossing your path or even just showing itself to you is considered bad luck by some people.
These beautiful feline creatures have been seen as bad omens in the Western world for many centuries, with people associating them with witchcraft and evil.
In today’s day and age, we know better than to judge a book by its cover, and what better time to do that than on National Black Cat Day?
Here is a look at National Black Cat Day and why black kitties have been considered to be bearers of bad luck for so many centuries.
Happy National Black Cat Day everyone!
— Raystede (@Raystede) October 27, 2023
Watch this video to hear from some of our adopters and see their beautiful black cats in their forever homes.
See our website for more information about adopting wonderful rescue cats: https://t.co/nZSs54FcIg pic.twitter.com/YD9ffEaX67
What is National Black Cat Day?
Every year, on October 27, the world gathers to celebrate black cats.
The special day is an opportunity to promote the wellbeing of black cats while dispelling any unfounded myths about them.
This year, to mark the occasion and help the cause, Battersea Dogs' & Cats' Home has revealed some expert tips and tricks to photograph your black cats.
Why are black cats considered bad luck?
Like all kitties, black cats are sweet and loyal companions who want nothing but love and care. However, over the centuries they have been the subject of a number of unfortunate myths.
In ancient history, cats were seen as divine symbols. In ancient Egypt, for instance, they were highly regarded and respected.
However, from around the 13th century onwards, black cats started to get a bad rep. The official church document written by Pope Gregory IX entitled Vox in Rama in 1233 declared that black cats were an incarnation of Satan. This belief seems to have quickly spread across Europe before long.
In Medieval Europe, black cats became synonymous with witchcraft, and as the Christian church continued to become more powerful across the continent, witches and anything related to them became something to despise and avoid.
