Black cats have captured human imagination for centuries. From being symbols of superstition to beloved internet icons, they have a fascinating history. Whether you already adore black cats or are just curious about them, here are some fun facts that might make you fall in love with them even more.
Black cats are common because the gene for black fur is dominant, and they may have better immune systems due to this gene, potentially protecting them from certain diseases.
The Gene for Black Fur is Dominant
The gene for black fur is called B locus and it determines the production of eumelanin. Eumelanin is the name of the pigment that gives cats a black coat. B locus is a dominant gene. This means a kitten needs only one black gene from one of their parents to be born with a black coat. Because the gene for black fur is dominant, black is the most common coat color of domesticated cats. Most black cats are not solid black though; they usually have patches of white somewhere on their bodies too.
A black coat of fur allows a cat to camouflage well into their environment at night, helping them to successfully hunt their prey. This genetic advantage may have allowed black cats to improve their chances of survival and reproduction, which could be why a black coat is so prevalent in cats.
Their Fur Can Change Color in the Sun
While they may look pure black at first glance, black cats can have subtle variations in their coat color. Many black cats have a pigment called pheomelanin that causes their fur to lighten when exposed to a lot of sunlight, revealing reddish-brown undertones. The sun’s UV rays bleaches the black pigment in the cat's fur, changing it to a rusty red color. The fur will remain discolored until it is shed. Then it will be replaced by black fur again.
They Can Have Stripes
Some black cats can also have faint tabby stripes that become visible in the right lighting and there’s an interesting science behind why. Black is genetically dominant as a fur color, but the striped tabby pattern is genetically dominant as a fur pattern so cats with genes for black fur and a tabby pattern can have stripes under the black coloring.
Their Eye Colors Are Stunning Yellows and Greens
Black cats often have striking eye colors. The same pigment, eumelanin, that affects a black cat’s fur also affects their irises. High concentrations of eumelanin result in dark fur and warmer, deeper eye colors. The amount and location of eumelanin in the iris determine the final eye color. A moderate amount of eumelanin can result in green eyes. Higher levels of eumelanin create gold, amber, and yellow-colored eyes.
They Are Both Revered and Feared
In ancient Egypt, black cats were considered sacred and believed to bring good fortune. Conversely, during the Middle Ages in Europe, black cats were typically associated with superstition and witchcraft. This connection between black cats and witches spread to North America and was prominently seen during the Salem witch trials of the 1690s. Even today in North America black cats are still associated with bad luck, but fortunately that’s not the case around the world.
In many other cultures, black cats are symbols of luck, love, and prosperity. In Scotland, for instance, a black cat on the doorstep means money is on the way. Similarly, in Germany, a black cat crossing your path means good luck is on the way. In Japan, single women with black cats are believed to attract more suitors. And in the English Midlands of Great Britain, a black cat is considered the ideal wedding gift since they’re believed to bring good luck and happiness to the bride.
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They Have a History at Sea
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Sailors welcomed black cats aboard their ships because they believed they brought good luck and kept the ships rodent-free. British sailors in particular believed having a black cat on board would bring the ship good luck and ensure a safe return home.
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Pirates, however, believed that a black cat walking toward you was bad luck, a black cat walking away from you was good luck, and if a cat boarded the ship and then jumped off, that ship was going to sink.
They’re Adopted Less Often
Unfortunately, black cats suffer from “black cat syndrome.” They often have a more difficult time getting adopted and spend more time waiting in shelters for their forever homes. This is likely due to lingering superstitions, because they can be more difficult to photograph, or because there are simply more black cats than cats of other colors. Anyone who’s met a black cat, however, knows they’re just as loving, playful and perfect as any other cat. So if you’re thinking about adopting a new cat soon, please consider a black cat who is more likely to be overlooked in a shelter.
Black Cats Have Their Own Holidays
In the United States, two days are marked as holidays for celebrating black cats in all their glory and the whole month of October is declared as Black Cat Awareness Month.
August 17th is National Black Cat Appreciation Day, which recognizes how wonderful black cats are. October 27th is National Black Cat Day, which honors black cats and dispels myths about their association with bad luck.
Black cats are definitely worthy of celebration. From their gorgeous coats and eyes to their rich history in folklore, these stunning creatures are full of beauty, mystique, and charm. The next time you’re in the market for a new pet, consider adopting a black cat. They would love to bring a little magic into your life.
Love, Nala
