10 Reasons to Adopt a Black Cat

Recent research on cat coat color and cat outcomes in an urban U.S. shelter found that — among different coat colors — black cats had the lowest rate of adoption (10.0%) of any color. Additionally, they have the highest rate of euthanasia (74.6%). Many believe this is a result of superstitions, such as the idea that black cats are witches reincarnated or that they attract bad luck. Others even claim that owners will return black cats to shelters simply because the cat didn’t photograph well. Not only that, but their apparent unphotogenic nature makes it difficult to attract aspiring cat owners to the shelter for their adoption. 

This issue is so prevalent that many shelters have developed rehoming programs for black cats to combat the well-known “Black Cat Bias.” The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) even created a specific holiday deemed “Black Cat Appreciation Day” to help promote black cats and their adoption. 

As someone who owns and adores her sweet and quirky black cat, I can’t recommend them enough. Though they get a bad reputation, they’re adorable, loving, and worthy pets that deserve a home filled with love. If you’re on the fence about adopting a little black feline pal, look no further. Here are ten reasons to adopt a black cat.

1. Some Cultures Consider Them Good Luck

A common myth about black cats is that they’re bad luck. It’s said that if you cross paths with a black cat, you’re bound to stumble upon bad luck in the near future. Their association with Halloween also makes many second guess the purity of their nature.

In fact, many people believe in superstitions that paint them in a morbid light. Some medieval theories even claim that black cats hold the souls of evil “witches.” Their apparent association with witchcraft or black magic makes some people feel uncomfortable or cautious when considering adopting a black cat.

Not only are these hypotheses both false and ignorant, but the opposite is also said to be true: black cats actually represent good luck in many cultures. For example, in Japan, black cats symbolize good fortune if they cross your path. They’re even said to attract love to those who are single. Additionally, in Egypt, black cats were once worshipped as royalty and thought to protect their owners from bad energy.

That being said, having a black cat as a pet might manifest more joy, abundance, and luck for you. And at the very least, it won’t bring you any ill fortune. Most likely, the worst that will happen is they might scratch up your couch (like any other cat!)

2. They Have Great Personalities

While all cats have different personalities separate from their coat colors, black cats are known to be loving, energetic, and quirky creatures. Though they might give off a “spooky” vibe to some, as the token Halloween cat, they also carry an aura of sophistication and allure. 

Many black cats strike the balance of being reserved and independent while also having moments of playfulness and curiosity. They can be incredibly loving and loyal — just as any other cat — and tend to form deep bonds with their owners. In fact, they often love people (visitors included!) and can be quite friendly when meeting someone. 

Of course, as stated earlier, this depends on the specific cat and its unique personality, but many black cats are affectionate, caring family members. And if you were to look up “black cat videos,” you’d likely spend the next few hours hysterically laughing, as they are silly creatures with an energy you just can’t resist.

3. They Experience Less Health Concerns

Some research suggests that black cats are actually healthier than cats of other coats. The gene that gives these cats their black color is the same one that allegedly protects them against common cat diseases like feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), often called “the cat version of HIV.” While this research is still ongoing, you can rest assured that your black cat’s genetic mutations are potentially keeping it safe from illnesses. 

Not only that but black cats are also thought to symbolize health and healing. Some legends involve cats walking by or brushing up against someone who is ill and curing them with their strong energy. They’re also believed to aid in the emotional healing process.

4. You Can Save Their Lives

As stated earlier, black cats have a 74.6% rate of euthanasia when compared to cats of other coat colors — the highest among all felines. Their low adoption rate is a contributing factor to their euthanization, as unadopted pets are often prime candidates in various shelters. This is a sad truth that many don’t want to consider. 

Even some no-kill shelters will still put down more than their alleged 10% of unwanted animals — black cats included. Since there is no organization that determines the no-kill status of a shelter, many will get away with euthanizing their animals for a variety of inhumane reasons.

That being said, by adopting a black cat, you are decreasing its risk of being euthanized when it already has a much higher chance than other colored cats in the shelter. Saving a furry friend’s life and providing it with a warm, loving home is beyond fulfilling.

5. They’re Like a Mini Panther

Many black cats resemble panthers. In fact, some look identical to the animal, existing as a miniature version. 

Panthers are beautiful, elusive creatures that are native to Asia, Africa, and the Americas. As part of the big cat family, panthers are not a distinct species but represent any black-colored feline, such as leopards or jaguars.

Black cats possess a similar novelty as the panther, with its wondrous beauty and stealthy nature. Having a black cat as a pet is often likened to having a mini panther as part of your family. They have similar bright-colored gold or emerald-green eyes and glossy black fur, the ability to camouflage, and the instinct to hunt. (It’s also much cuter and less threatening when your domestic cat play-hunts you than an actual panther in the wild.)

6. They Come From Royalty

Across many cultures, black cats were once regarded as royalty. In fact, many cultures worshiped them as “gods.” This was especially common in ancient Egypt, where they were mummified and entombed along with pharaohs to preserve their righteousness in the afterlife. For this very reason, killing a black cat was considered a serious offense.

So, if you’re going to believe in any black cat superstition or theory, believe this one: black cats come from royalty. They have a fortune in their blood and attract prosperity to their loved ones. Who wouldn’t want such a regal creature as part of their family? 

7. Their Eyes Are Beautiful

Most black cats have yellow/gold, copper, or emerald green eyes. This is due to the eumelanin that gives these cats black fur. The same pigment also impacts the cats’ irises, which add to their striking nature — especially when set against their dark coat.

While many people reject the notion of adopting a black cat due to its “unphotogenic nature,” others appreciate the cats’ unique, stunning features. When looking into your black cat’s eyes, you can’t help but sense their power and mysticism (while also appreciating their beauty). 

8. They Have an Air of Mystery

Due to the many myths, legends, and rich history of the black cat, it’s no surprise that they carry an air of mystery to them. Simply looking at the gorgeous creature is enough to make you wonder about its possible past lives or spiritual ties. The black cat is a prime symbol of secrecy, wisdom, and elegance.

While I might be biased as a black cat owner myself, I tend to think my furry little loved one adds a touch of charm and magic to my life. Black cats’ mysterious natures are what make them appealing to some (myself included!) This is especially true if you’re into Halloween and its related themes.

9. They’re Highly Spiritual Beings

Cats, in general, are thought to sense and connect with the spiritual realm. Many Eastern cultures label black cats as spiritual protectors. In fact, some people even believe that having a black cat in your home will keep you safe from negative or dark energy.

Additionally, if you shift your perspective on the medieval association of black cats and witches, you might actually find a more positive connotation. Witches were often seen as evil spirits who practiced dark magic. In reality, many of those alleged “witches” were just women who were in tune with nature. That being said, their black cat companions were meant to offer them protection from dark entities. This belief still rings true to many today.

10. You Can Help Combat Superstitions

With all the negative superstitions relating to black cats, it’s no shock that many naive or fearful individuals steer clear of them altogether. By adopting a black cat, you’re helping to shift the narrative and break the stigmas against them. This ongoing prejudice has been going on for far too long. By loving your own little black cat, you might encourage others to do the same. 

Interested in Adopting a Furry Friend? Consider a Black Cat

There are many great reasons to adopt a black cat from your local shelter, as mentioned above. Not only can you save its life, but you’ll also reap the many benefits associated with the beautiful pet. Black cats are just as — if not more — loving, playful, affectionate, and energetic as their feline counterparts of different coat colors. When looking for a new best friend to add to your animal family, look no further than the charming, mystical, and stunning black cat. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © woff/Shutterstock.com