This Halloween, the SPCA of Wake County would like to debunk the myths and let people know the truth about black cats.

Click here to read the SPCA Black Cat Promotional Press Release

A Brief History of Black Cat Myths: 

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact origins of black cat myths. Because myths and superstitions typically are passed down orally, the meaning and purpose evolved over time.

In many cultures, the color black has been associated with evil, magic, and the supernatural. Because people often viewed night, and its darkness, as dangerous, the color black took on negative meanings. 

Many of the myths and superstitions that are associated with black cats probably originated during the Middle Ages.  Because of the cat’s black color, its habit of roaming at night, its sleek movements, and eyes that seem to “glow” at night, the black cat became the embodiment of darkness, mystery, and evil. 

During the witch trials in North America and Europe, black cats became associated with bad luck and witches because of their ability to remain unseen at night due to the color of their coat. In many other countries not impacted by the witch trial frenzy, black cats were considered good luck.

Myth 1: Black cats bring bad luck
The SPCA of Wake County polled staff, volunteers, and adopters of black cats, and they unanimously agree that black cats only bring good luck. They curl up at your feet, they meow for attention, and they make wonderful family members. On a daily basis, someone at the SPCA has crossed a black cat’s path, and no cases of bad luck have been reported.

Myth 2: Black cats are witches or friends of witches
Since we don’t believe in witches, we’re pretty sure that this one is not true. However, we imagine that a black cat would be friends with a good witch. We also have not seen any one in pointy hats or broomsticks at the shelter, so it’s a safe bet that black cats are not witches.

Myth 3: Black cats are evil
They cough up hairballs on your oriental rug. They climb your curtains and use your furniture as a scratching post. They occasionally hide and attack your ankles from behind. Black cats (all cats) can be mischievous, and their hijinks may cause a little chaos, but evil? Of course not. They’re just looking for a little fun.

Around the world there are many good luck myths relating to black cats. Here are just a few:

• In Germany it is believed that when a black cat crosses your path from left to right the cat is granting favorable times for you.
• Latvian farmers dance with joy when they find black cats in their grain silos. They believe these felines to be the spirit of Rungis, a god of harvests.
• In Scotland folks believe finding a black cat sitting on their porch is a sure sign of riches and happiness to come.
• In the Yorkshires a black cat was said to bring the fishermen home safely from sea.
• In Britain it is thought that if a black cat resides in a house, a young woman living there will have many suitors.
• In Italy when a black cat sneezes, it is said to bring good luck to all who hear it.
• According to an English tradition, it is fortunate if a bride sees a black cat on the way to the church for her wedding.
• In the south of France, black cats are referred to as matagots, "magician cats", that bring good luck to owners who feed them well and treat them with the respect they deserve.
• Black cats were once treated like royalty in the homes of English sailors, who believed that keeping them happy would ensure fair weather when they went to sea. They became so high-priced that few sailors could afford them!
• In the English midlands, a black cat as a wedding present is thought to bring good luck to the bride.
• In western Europe it is considered good luck to have a black cat enter your home.