Black Cat Appreciation Day: Ebony Feline Love

As the creator of Black Cat Awareness Month, I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on Black Cat Appreciation Day, observed annually on August 17th.

To banish the myth about black cats not photographing well, I decided to use only black and white imagery in this post.

Despite their sleek and stunning appearance, black cats have long been associated with myths and superstitions. This day is an opportunity to dispel those myths and honor these often misunderstood felines.

 

 

Why Black Cats Deserve Our Appreciation

Black cats have long been subject to superstition and misconceptions. In many cultures, they’ve been unfairly associated with bad luck or witchcraft.

However, those of us who know and love these sleek, mysterious felines understand that they’re just as loving, playful, and deserving of homes as cats of any other color.

Let’s use Black Cat Appreciation Day as a time to celebrate these beautiful creatures and give them the love and recognition they deserve!

The History Behind the Day

Black Cat Appreciation Day was created by Wayne Morris in 2011 in honor of his deceased sister, June, who had a deep love for black cats. The day not only serves to celebrate black cats but also to raise awareness about the challenges they face in shelters, where they are often overlooked due to lingering superstitions.

We have celebrated Black Cat Appreciation Day at Cat Wisdom 101 for many years and each year, try to feature something new.

 

Fun Factoids About Black Cats

How To Appreciate Black Cats on National Black Cat Appreciation Day

1. Genetics: The gene responsible for black fur, called melanin, may offer health benefits. Some studies suggest black cats might have stronger immune systems.

2. The Magic of Melanin: Black cats get their striking color from high levels of melanin, the same pigment that gives humans darker skin. This melanin also provides them with extra protection from the sun, reducing their risk of skin cancer compared to other cats.

3. “Rust” phenomenon: Many black cats aren’t truly black! In sunlight, you might notice reddish-brown undertones, a condition playfully called “rusting.”

3. Myth-Busting Time: One of the biggest myths is that black cats are more mysterious hence aloof or less affectionate than other cats. In reality, a cat’s personality has nothing to do with its fur color. Black cats are magical and mysterious but just as loving, playful, and friendly as their more colorful counterparts.

 

 

4. Halloween and Pop Culture Icons: Black cats are a staple of Halloween imagery, often associated with witches and spooky tales. However, they’ve also become pop culture icons, with famous black cats like Salem from “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” and Thackery Binx from “Hocus Pocus” winning the hearts of fans worldwide.

5. Unique eye colors: While many black cats have yellow eyes, some can have striking blue, green, or even odd-colored eyes.

6. Black Cat Breeds: Did you know there are 22 cat breeds that can produce a black coat? The most famous of these is the Bombay, a breed specifically developed to resemble a miniature black panther. With their sleek black coats and copper or gold eyes, Bombay cats are often called the “parlor panther.”

7. Lucky charms: In some cultures, black cats are actually considered lucky. In Japan, they’re thought to bring prosperity especially to single women while British sailors historically welcomed black cats aboard ships for good fortune. In Scotland, a black cat appearing on your doorstep signifies prosperity is on the way.

 

I’ve curated a large archive of black cats in black and white photography on Pinterest https://pin.it/45rQdVrky

 

 

Black cats are often the last to be adopted in shelters, partly due to outdated superstitions and the mistaken belief that they don’t photograph well. However, these gorgeous felines make wonderful companions. If you’re considering adopting a cat, why not give a black cat a chance? You’ll gain a loyal friend and help break the stigma that has followed these animals for far too long.

 

9 Ways to Appreciate Black Cats

 

 

1. Adopt or foster black cats.

Black cats are often the last to be adopted in shelters, partly due to outdated superstitions and the mistaken belief that they don’t photograph well. However, these gorgeous felines make wonderful companions. If you’re considering adopting a cat, why not give a black cat a chance? You’ll gain a loyal friend and help break the stigma that has followed these animals for far too long. Many shelters offer special adoption rates for black

2. Volunteer: Offer your time at local shelters, especially those with “black cat” programs.

3. Educate: Share positive information about black cats on social media to help dispel myths and superstitions.

4. Photography challenge: Challenge yourself to capture their beauty – it’s a fun way to appreciate their unique features!

5. Support black cat artwork: Many artists create stunning pieces featuring black cats. Consider purchasing some to decorate your home.

 

 

6. Host a “panther party”: Invite friends (and their black cats or photo) for a celebration. It’s a great way to socialize cats and humans alike!

7. Donate: Consider making a donation to a shelter or rescue organization that helps black cats.

8. On social media, like and share black cat posts. Support and follow black cat groups like our own @BlackCatsofIG. Use the hashtags #Blackcats #Blackcatappreciationday #adoptblackcats #blackcatawarenessmonth and many others.

9. Read books about black cats like my Black Cats Tell All:True Tales And Inspiring Images on sale!

 

I couldn’t resist adding a cartoon from my latest issue of The New Yorker Magazine.

 

 

Remember, a cat’s personality is far more important than its color. Black cats come in all temperaments – from playful and outgoing to calm and cuddly. By appreciating these ebony beauties, we’re taking a step towards ensuring all cats, regardless of color, receive the love and care they deserve.

Much love from Layla, Odin, Otto and otrb Clyde

 

 

This Black Cat Appreciation Day, let’s come together to celebrate these mini panthers and the joy they bring to our lives. After all, a little black cat might just be the good luck charm you’ve been looking for!