Some Statistics on Black Cats

• A third of all cats in shelters are black cats!

• Black cats remain in these shelters 24% longer than other cats.

• Black cats can turn grey with age.

• There are more male than female black cats.

• The great majority of black cats have yellow eyes due to their high content of melatonin pigment.  

• In England, offering a black cat to a bride on her wedding day is a message of good luck.

• In Japan, it is believed that black cats help attract suitors for single women.

• According to the Scottish tradition, a black cat appearing at your home can signify great wealth in the future.

 

Superstitions and Controversies Surrounding Black Cats

Why is there so much controversy surrounding black cats? Throughout history there has been a lot said about the status of black cats. Some of these misconceptions from the past are still present in today's society.

 

In ancient Egypt, cats were once worshipped and protected. Because of their eyes which shone at night, this little ball of fluff on four paws signified for Egyptians the Sun god, Râ.

 

Around 6th century AD, the cat lost its royal status and took on the role as vermin hunter. The fear of the black cat first appeared in medieval Europe in the 13th century. This fear was especially prominent in England due to the start of the dark period of 'The Witch-Hunt '.

 

Even though cruel practices towards cats were perpetuated until the middle of the 18th century, human kind perceived an evolution of kindness towards these small companions, even towards black cats. L. Bobis was quoted once saying, “Mrs de la Sablière, friend of Lafontaine, resolved to get rid of her passion for dogs by replacing them with black cats and was unmistakably seduced by these animals”.

 

In diverse regions and countries throughout the globe, cats are considered as a good luck charm. According to legend in Lower Britain, every black cat possesses one white hair which functions as a talisman to the one who succeeds in tearing it out from the cat’s fur.

 

Fortunately, ever since then, the fears and superstitions pertaining to the black cat have declined. Ever since the defeat of Napoleon during the battle of Waterloo in 1815, a black cat represents a good luck charm for those in the United Kingdom. One legend even states that Napoleon, who was very superstitious, came across a black cat just before the battle.

 

Source : Internet

 

Persistent Superstitions

Today, coming across a black cat is still considered as a bad omen, just as passing under a ladder or spilling salt on the table.

 

Although these animals have been rehabilitated and brought into our homes staring from the 19th century, they are always associated with Halloween or the witches from storybooks. 

 

It seems that some of us adore black cats while others are afraid of them. One thing however is for certain, no one is left without an opinion on the matter!

 

Source : Gralon

 

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