The Truth about Black Cats

Black cats have traditionally gotten the short end of the stick when it comes to discussing the noble history of domesticated animals. Still associated with bad luck and Halloween, the superstition surrounding black cats is inherent in modern culture. How far back does this suspicion of black cats go? And what truths have been revealed about their nature?

Since the Middle Ages, black cats have been associated with bad luck in the Western World, which wasn't as advanced and open-minded as it thought it was. Considered magical, psychic, and evil, the presences of black cats often implied that a witch was nearby or that misfortune was afoot. Cats and their owners were often punished for their connection with the Devil. This is surprising, for as barely accommodating as cats can be, it seems doubtful that the Devil would accept them as dutiful minions.

Today, we are still familiar with the tantalizingly spooky belief that a black cat crossing your path may be a sign of bad luck. In some areas of the world, interestingly enough, this is actually a sign of good luck. There are many different variations of black cat superstitions from all cultures:

• In Ireland, a black cat crossing your path in the moonlight can signal the coming of a plague or epidemic.
• In Renaissance Italy, a black cat on the bed of a sick person meant certain death for that person.
• Stroking a black cat can cure a sty. (But your allergies might flare up.)
• Dreaming about a black cat is a bad omen.

While given a bad reputation throughout history, evolution actually may have smiled on black cats. Black fur may be an evolutionary trait; it has shown up as developing separately in many species at various times, so it must have benefited the cat in some way. The dark fur may have been used as a camouflage while hunting, probably at night (under the moonlight, of course, witch friend following close behind). The gene that produces the black fur might also be linked to a gene that prevents illnesses, giving the cat's physiology an extra kick.

It's the truth that animal shelters have a large amount of black cats--especially around October, or afterwards, after the "magic" of Halloween has worn off. Personal testimonials reveal that living with these cats brings the owner no luck (neither good nor bad). The cats seem to be almost completely devoid magical ability as well, though science hasn't yet studied this particular rumor.