Be the lucky owner of a black cat
Did you know that a lot of shelters report that black cats and kittens, because of superstition, prejudice, or simply their tendency to blend into the shadows of their cages, are the ones most likely to be passed over for adoption? Read on to discover the virtues of the exotic black cat.
Black cats equal good luck
In many cultures such as Britain, Scotland and Japan, a black cat crossing your path is considered good luck. In addition, it is said if you dream of a black cat, then you will have good luck. In the theatre world, a black cat’s presence has been credited with bringing about show-stopping performances.
Black cats are gorgeous
The satin sheen of a black cat’s coat is unlike any other. When their hair catches the light, it appears to shimmer. It is no wonder the most oft used word to describe a black cat is “sleek.” The black cat’s startling eyes, which can be yellow, green and even copper, “pop” against their dark backdrop. Black cats often have sturdy builds and thick, full coats.
Black cat facts
- New research has shown that black coats have evolved separately many times in different species of cats — indicating that dark fur has a survival benefit. The need to appear camouflaged at night is one explanation while other research suggests the mutation that makes cats black might have helped them resist a deadly infection thousands of years ago. Research is being conducted to determine if black cats are more resistant to disease than cats of other colors.
- Black fur usually skips a generation due to the characteristic’s association with the X chromosome.
- The Bombay breed is a short-haired black cat known for its affectionate temperament and strong build. Maine Coons, Manx’s, Persians, and other exotic breeds can also be black.
- Black cats come in different shades. Some appear more grey and others more brown. Black “smokes” are lighter due to a white undercoat. Auburn-hued black cats have been in the sun.
- Some black cats have tabby markings. If you look closely in the right light, you may be able to see the tell-tale striping, and even the classic bulls-eye.
- Black cats often have white markings. The most common is a white spot on their necks, known as a locket. Black cats with white “bibs” are called Tuxedos.
Do you wear a lot of black clothing or own a lot of dark furniture?
Adopt a black cat.
Their shedding fur will not show up as noticeably as a lighter cat’s will.
Top 10 reasons to adopt a black cat
- They look like little panthers
- A lint brush isn’t required for a black-tie affair
- Holding a black cat is very slimming
- Black cats will match any decor
- When you love a black cat, luck is on your side
- Every woman should have a little black dress and a little black cat
- Hey, they don’t care what color you are!
- Black cats are like onyx, a beautiful gem
- Love knows no color
- They are the least likely to be adopted
Famous black cats
Black Pete (Mickey Mouse)
Boo-Boo Kitty (Laverne & Shirley)
Isis (Star Trek)
Penelope Pussy Cat (Pepe Le Pew)
Pluto (The Black Cat, Edgar Allen Poe)
Salem (Sabrina, the Teenage Witch)
Snowball II, Snowball V (The Simpsons)
Socks (“First Cat” during Clinton Administration)
Sylvester (Looney Tunes)
Winky (Escape from Witch Mountain)
Famous black cat owners
Fred Astaire, Winston Churchill, Calvin Coolidge, Ernest Hemingway, Queen Victoria
Popular black cat names
Ebony, Jet, Licorice, Midnight, Onyx, Oreo