Did You Know?
Genetically, cats are born with only two colors—black and/or red. All other coat types are variations of the two, even white cats. Other factors like dilutions, masking, or other genes change the appearance of a cat’s fur patterns and coloration. So, genetically, cats are either red, black, or a combination of the two. Therefore, adopting a black cat isn’t that far out of a concept, considering over half of all cats have black coloring in some form or another.
- Research suggests that the genetic mutation in black cats may help make them more resistant to certain illnesses.
- In many countries, a black cat is considered good luck. In Japan, if a single woman owns a black cat, it’s believed to increase the number of her romantic interests.
- A black cat arriving at your doorstep signals prosperity (a common belief in Scotland) and a black cat crossing your path signals good luck (in England and Ireland).
- The Egyptians venerated black cats and when so far as to make the killing of a black cat a capital offence.
- Tuesday, August 17, 2021 is Black Cat Appreciation Day
Shelter cats, no matter the color of their fur, need forever families to love and cherish them. At the end of the day, the best reason to adopt a black cat is that they are just like every other cat.