The UK is a cat-loving nation, with an estimated 11 million cats kept as pets.* However, some pets have characteristics that often go overlooked, and sadly, black cats are one of them.
Not only do black cats take longer to find homes in adoption charities than other cats, but in a social media dominated world, black cats are often considered less “photogenic” than their more “colourful” counterparts.
On National Black Cat Day this August, PDSA vets PDSA Pet Insurance We’ve debunked some of the most common myths about black cats.
“Lucky, bad luck, witches’ pets… our mystical friends the cat have many legends about them, and we’ll admit, not all of them are fantastic,” explains PDSA veterinarian Lynne James.
“But we think black cats are wonderful, and there are lots of reasons why they make great pets.”
Lynn debunks some of the biggest myths surrounding black cats.
- We are not living in the Middle Ages.
“The legend of black cats and witches is thought to have originated during the Middle Ages – a thousand years ago. Black cats have a bad reputation based on mythology, but in reality they are no different to any other cat.”
- Black cats are actually lucky cats!
“Sailors took black cats on board their ships not only to catch rats but also because they believed black cats brought good luck. In Scotland, a black cat appearing on your doorstep is a sign of prosperity!”
- They may live longer.
“According to researchers at the National Institutes of Health, the gene that gives black cats their black fur may also protect them from certain diseases, so scientifically speaking, black cats may be less likely to get certain diseases.”
- A black cat may help your love life.
“Believe it or not, in some parts of the world black cats are thought to be ‘matchmakers’ and are believed to help their owners find true love. In some parts of the UK, black cats are believed to bring good luck and happiness to the bride, making them the perfect wedding gift.”
- They were worshipped.
“In ancient Egypt, all cats were worshipped, including black cats. All cats were considered sacred. In fact, the Egyptian goddess Bastet (who protects homes from evil spirits and disease) is often depicted with the body of a woman and the head of a black cat. Bastet is still worshipped today, and some believe that modern cats are endowed with her protection.”
PDSA is the UK’s largest veterinary charity, providing a vital service to pet owners across the UK who struggle to pay for treatment for their sick or injured pets. PDSA exists for the many vulnerable pets whose owners have nowhere else to turn.
The charity’s insurance division PDSA Pet Insuranceoffers a range of insurance policies covering accidents and illnesses for cats and dogs, as well as access to a 24/7 veterinary helpline. Every policy sold raises funds for the charity’s life-saving veterinary work.
More information www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-insurance-pdsa
*According to the PDSA Animal Welfare (PAW) Report 2023.
