August 17 is Black Cat Appreciation Day, where we celebrate and support black cats, and tackle the stigma against them. With a history largely associated with witchcraft and superstition that have led to many negative misconceptions surrounding black cats, it is important that we use this day to address and debunk these myths and show just how special these felines really are.
The Myths and Facts About Black Cats
Common Myths Surrounding Black Cats
Over the years, black cats have undeservingly earned a reputation for being bad omens and linked to witchcraft, myths believed to have origins in the Middle Ages.
These cats continued to be associated with witchcraft well into the 17th century and beyond, particularly in North America during the Salem witch trials of the 1690s, where witch hysteria and paranoia ran rampant.
The Truth Behind These Myths
Despite this stigma, black is in fact the most common cat coat color. It is also practical, providing them with an evolutionary advantage, as their black coat is effective camouflage for night-time hunting.
In contrast to these negative myths and superstitions, black cats have also been known to represent good luck. 19th century British and Irish sailors believed that these felines were good omens and had the power to protect ships against treacherous weather. It seems that a black cat can be both lucky or unlucky depending on your perspective, yet neither myth is likely to be true in reality.
How These Myths Have Affected Black Cats Over Time
With centuries of myths and superstition surrounding black cats, it is unsurprising that these ideas have affected the feline. According to studies, black cats are the least likely to be adopted compared to cats of different coat colors, and spend significantly longer in animal shelters.
It is these consequences that have led to a Black Cat Awareness Day, to help shine a light on black cats and debunk superstitions, for the benefit of these animals.
The Significance of Black Cat Appreciation Day
Why It's Important to Celebrate Black Cats
It is particularly important to celebrate black cats as a means to help address these negative preconceptions, and raise awareness of the unfortunate facts about black cats and how superstition has negatively impacted these animals.
The Impact of the Day on Public Perception
Appreciation and Awareness Days hold significant power in the modern day, particularly in the age of the internet. Conversations and stories can be spread across the world and reach new audiences in a matter of clicks.
By partaking in Black Cat Appreciation Day, you can help debunk myths and misconceptions and help educate people on the importance of dismissing these superstitions, while advocating for black cat welfare and adoption.
How It Helps in Promoting the Adoption of Black Cats
Black Cat Appreciation Day can have a significant impact on black cat adoption rates. As they experience low rates of adoption compared to other cats, this day can help remind people of their current circumstances, and encourage those who may be considering welcoming a cat to their home, to perhaps give a black cat a chance.
Appreciation Days can connect and educate people, while also help them find their local animal shelters and maybe even inspire them to adopt a black cat.
How to Celebrate Black Cat Appreciation Day
Hosting or Attending Black Cat Events
Hosting or attending black cat events can be a great way to connect with like minded people and create a community. Try searching your local area for events and fairs that center on finding homes for black cats as a way to show your support and discover how you can help.
Social Media Ideas to Raise Awareness
With social media, it’s never been easier to spread the word about National Black Cat Day. Even the smallest of contributions can collectively hold a big impact, such as using relevant hashtags, which can help content reach new audiences. For example:
#BlackCatDay
#CatAdoption
#BlackCatAwareness
#AdoptABlackCat
#RescueCats
Hashtags can build whole communities who share the common interest of celebrating and advocating for black cats, promoting adoption and helping them find loving homes.
Black Cats in Popular Culture
Black cats are instantly recognisable and featured in various pop culture moments, particularly in film and TV. Some of the most notable include Bagheera from the classic book and film, The Jungle Book, and Thackery Binx in 1993’s Halloween classic, Hocus Pocus.
Although many of their appearances have involved playing the role of witch’s sidekick or the like, there's no doubt that these famous black cats have made their mark in popular culture today.
Supporting Black Cats Beyond August 17
Ongoing Efforts To Support Black Cats
There are many ways you can advocate for black cat welfare year round. Even if you may not be ready or able to take in a black cat of your own, you can help spread the word to others who might. Try talking amongst your peers and doing your bit to debunk the myths and superstitions associated with these cats.
How To Get Involved With Local Shelters And Organizations
Another option is to get involved with local shelters and organizations. As black cats unfortunately spend significantly longer in these shelters, being a foster parent for these cats could be a great way to help them experience a loving home before they find their permanent place. Another option is to volunteer, which could be as simple as donating your time, money, or supplies, as every little helps.
Conclusion
In a world largely past the hysteria and fear surrounding witchcraft and age-old superstition, the black cats have struggled to unshake the association with the occult. Consequently, they find themselves being the last picked and unwanted - among the least popular choice among cat owners and most common in animal shelters.
This year, on Black Cat Appreciation Day, why not do your bit to help address the stigma that surrounds these animals? Be it adopting a black cat yourself, or harnessing the power of social media and advocating for their welfare, it’s never been easier to help these cats receive the love and celebration they deserve.
