Black cats have always aroused a deep fascination in those who observe them. Their enigmatic appearance, the penetrating shine of their eyes and their intriguing history make them one of the most special and, at the same time, misunderstood felines in the world. These cats not only have a symbolic charge that has varied greatly depending on the culture, but they also possess characteristics and Interesting Facts which is worth exploring carefully.
In this article, we will delve into the history, characteristics, myths and realities about black cats. In addition, we will address everything you need to know to better understand and care for them, integrating data and facts that show that, more than superstitions, black cats are wonderful animals full of meaning. kindness and love.
History and symbolism of black cats
Since ancient times, black cats have been protagonists of myths and beliefs that have marked their perception to this day. In the Ancient Egypt, were revered as mystical beings and associated with the goddess Bastet, deity of fertility and home, who was often depicted with the head of a black cat. Egyptian families cared for them as good fortune charms, and their temples were full of cats that were considered sacred.
However, in medieval Europe, the perception changed dramatically. Black cats began to be associated with witchcraft following religious persecutions, where they were believed to be familiars of witches. This superstition triggered a hunt that led to their mass extermination, indirectly contributing to medieval plagues by not having enough cats to control disease-carrying rats.
Fortunately, the cultural tide has turned in many places. In cultures such as the Japanese and scottishBlack cats are considered symbols of good luck and prosperity. Having one in your home can be seen as a positive omen for the future.
Unique characteristics of black cats
Black cats have physical and genetic attributes that make them unique and fascinating. Their dark fur is not exclusive to a single breed, as it can be found in more than 22 different breeds of catsAmong them, the Bombay breed is the most iconic, specially created in the 50s to resemble a “miniature panther”.
Their skin pigmentation is controlled by a recessive gene, eumelanin, which is responsible for their deep black color. In addition, the high production of melanin also manifests itself in their eyes, giving them golden, yellow or green tones of great intensity.
Did you know that black cat fur can rust?
With prolonged exposure to the sun, some black cats may show brown or reddish reflections due to the breakdown of the pigments in their coat. This is especially visible in cats with the dominant gene for the tabby pattern, which can manifest itself in the stripes hidden beneath their solid black colour.
The character of the black cat
Contrary to popular belief, black cats tend to be calmer, more tolerant and sociable than other cats. Studies have shown that individuals with the black allele non-agouti, which controls the solid color of the coat, tend to be more gregarious and less prone to aggressive attitudes towards other animals and humans.
In addition, these cats have been described as independent and cunning, making them ideal pets for those looking for a companion that combines elegance and personality.
Does color influence health and longevity?
The genetics responsible for the black color are also linked to a greater resistance to diseases such as feline AIDS. According to scientific research, genetic mutations in black cats could be key to understanding mechanisms of protection against diseases. human.
Myths and facts about black cats
Throughout history, black cats have been surrounded by myths that in many cases have no basis. Here are some of the most widespread myths and the realities that refute them.
- Myth: They bring bad luck.
Reality: In many cultures, such as the Japanese and German, it is considered that coming across a black cat brings good fortune. - Myth: They are not affectionate.
Reality: They are as affectionate as any other cat and, in some cases, even more grateful to those who adopt them. - Myth: They are difficult to photograph for adoption.
Reality: With the right lighting, black cats can be just as photogenic as any other.
Curiosities about black cats
The curiosities don't end here. Did you know that these cats have their own day on the calendar? October 27 Black Cat Day is celebrated in many parts of the world, a date dedicated to fighting superstitions and promoting their adoption.
Another curiosity is that many British sailors used to keep black cats on board their ships, believing that they would give them luck at sea and would protect them on their journeys.
Adopting black cats
Despite their beauty and unique characteristics, black cats are unfortunately the last to be adopted in shelters due to unfounded prejudices. For those considering adopting a cat, you should know that a black cat can be the perfect companion, full of love and loyalty.
Animal protection organizations around the world make constant efforts to promote the adoption of these cats, highlighting their virtues and debunking unnecessary myths.
Adopting a black cat is not only a act of kindness, but also an opportunity to have a fascinating, intelligent and personality-filled pet.
Black cats are a symbol of resilience and mysticism, creatures that have been misunderstood but certainly deserve to be appreciated for how wonderful they are. Adopt one and discover the indescribable love that they can offer you.
Yes, it is true they are special. The one I had the opportunity to meet when my cat was in heat. It was very pretty. He had gorgeous glossy black fur, and his eyes were greenish-yellow, but so clear, large, and pure that I never saw eyes like this.
His eyes also stood out because his body was not very large, but he had a round and remarkable head.
He walked around the house with a royal gait, yes, he had a majestic bearing, and the gait of an elegant feline.
My mother is Galician and of course she believes in nonsensical superstitions. She didn't even want to see him, when she came home (to eat) she threw rags at her (she can't walk without help) or told her to leave, but Blacky didn't care. In the end, we all took a liking to her, she included, she even told me to feed her.
I bought her fluorescent rattle necklaces, she was wearing an ugly old one. So that if he walked down the street at night the cars would see him. Lost a necklace. I also put an anti-everything pipette on it.
Being of a smaller size than the others, they threw him out of the territory and he did not come much, perhaps every two or three days, sometimes more. We were glad when we saw him again, we thought; How well he is still alive and well 🙂
We were in a summer house, so when we had to go back we couldn't bring him because he dominated the females. As I already mentioned in another post here, I took it to a former protector, with food and clumping earth for a while, she loved it, but since she also had cats, Blacky escaped.
Blacky, wherever you are, I hope you are well and are happy in the freedom that you love so much.
Surely it will be fine, wherever it is 🙂
What a tender story, here my kitten had 4 cats and 1 of them in a black kitten and she is just opening her eyes jsjs, she is super cute and cute and when she was born she caught my attention and now that I look at her eyes and I I love it much more and I already imagine when I grow up and be very playful and affectionate jsjs, I like my kitten aahh ... and your kitten loves you a lot wherever she is, she loves you and loves you because you are her owner and you love her you gave all the love it should deserve, your kitten is very special
I just adopted him a month ago, I caught him with three months, now he is 4, he is a little day but he makes me fall in love, there are three of us, my husband, 26-year-old son and me, I have been the one who is darling that he was black, they attract me, my little Leo ,
The truth is that black cats are very, very special 🙂
Leo is sure to be very happy!