There is a stigma and superstition surrounding black cats that I have never embraced. That they are unlucky, or ill omens, or portents of doom, is a primarily Western notion that goes back centuries, all the way to Greek mythology.
In some stories, a servant named Galinthias is turned into a black cat before joining Hecate, goddess of many things — among them witchcraft and necromancy, and so in some circles, black cats became known as an omen or servant of death. Skip to the Middle Ages when black cats became even more widely associated with black magic. In 1233, Pope Gregory XI published the “Vox in Rama” which included a vilification of black cats. In it, he claimed that black cats were the incarnation of Satan, leading to the slaughter and dwindling population of these majestic creatures. What a sad, sad fate!
Fortunately, in 2020, many of these beliefs are not widely held.
Thanks to the internet, we have a broadened scope of knowledge, so along with these dark tales of the cursed black cat we also have tales of their splendor. For instance, in many cultures worldwide, black cats are considered to be lucky!
In Scottish lore, having a black cat show up at your home means that you are going to win the jackpot, and in Japan, black cats are especially lucky for single women, since owning a black cat is thought to attract potential suitors. Of course, we can’t talk about cats without mentioning ancient Egypt, where for many centuries all cats were revered, and Bastet, the goddess of cats, protection, joy, dance, music, family, and love is often depicted as a regal, black cat.
I have always admired these creatures for their intensity, their regal demeanor, their majestic, intelligent eyes, and for their ever-wild hearts. Regardless of the superstitions surrounding them, they are stunning, loyal, and endlessly special beings.
The people who love them are lucky indeed.
Did you know that August 17 is National Black Cat Day?
Often, black cats are the last ones adopted at shelters… or they’re not adopted at all. If you can open your home to another feline companion, black cats are among the best friends you can have. And, if you already have a majestic bite-sized panther as a friend, lavish them special attention and treats. They deserve it!We would love to hear how you and your furry friend celebrate this special day, so head on over to our Facebook page and share a photo of the two of you!
