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Crossing your path -

Most people are familiar with the black cat crossing your path as the root of the bad omen. It stems from European folklore that claimed that a black cat crossing one’s path by moonlight often signified death by epidemic.

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It started in the Middle Ages -

Many people, but especially those in the Catholic Church, believed that black cats were the demonic entities that assisted with the practice of witches' magic, or that they were even shape-shifting witches themselves.

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They were, and are, hunted -

From early 13th-century Europe up until the 17th century Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts, black cats were killed along with those who were considered witches. Actually, as recently as 2007, The Telegraph reported that "60,000 black cats are killed every year by Italians who believe that they bring bad luck."

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Medieval times to Las Vegas -

Las Vegas is a very superstitious place as it relies so much on luck, and the gambling world believes that if a black cat crosses you on the way to a casino, you should turn right around.

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Black animals had it rough -

Most animals with dark fur or feathers, including crows and ravens, got a bad rap in medieval times, as they were said to signal death.

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Signaling sickness -

In 16th-century Italy, it was a common belief that if a black cat laid on someone's sickbed, death was imminent.

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Other variations on the curse -

Some say if a black cat is spotted during a funeral procession, another family member is bound to die. It's also said to be a bad omen if you see a black cat walking away from you.

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The sad truth -

Black cats are more likely to be put to sleep or wait longer to be adopted from shelters because of their negative associations.

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Not the full story -

What’s interesting, however, is that black cats have also been considered good luck through the ages, across historical settings and cultures, but their bad luck is the version that has stuck.

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Pop culture representation -

The black cat has often been portrayed as the loyal companion. One example is Luna, the classic cartoon black cat featured in ‘Sailor Moon.’ Another is Salem, the snarky black cat from ‘Sabrina, the Teenage Witch.’

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Halloween movies -

‘Hocus Pocus’ features the sarcastic Thackery Binx, who gets turned into a black cat and must take down the witches, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy.

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Fun fact -

The Bombay black cat is the most popular of the 22 feline breeds that feature black as a possible coat color, and it was bred to resemble a miniature black panther. It’s the breed typically used in popular shows and movies.

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Halloween costume -

From young girls to adult women, you’ll see many cat costumes on Halloween, and none other than black.

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Resembling a goddess -

In ancient Egypt, black cats were held in the highest esteem because they resembled Bastet, the feline Egyptian goddess of home, fertility, and protection from illness.

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They were once protected -

Back in 3000 BCE, to harm a black cat was considered a capital crime.

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Calming the elements -

Cats were often taken on boats to manage the rats, but in sailing lore having a black cat on a ship was also said to calm both the sea and the wind. Some fishermen’s wives would also keep black cats at home to influence the safe returns of their husbands.

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Drawing in customers -

In England, if a black cat visits your hotel, B&B, or inn, it's advised that you welcome the cat nicely, as it will bring more clients.

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Taking your troubles away - Also in some parts of England, it's believed that if a black cat walks in front of you, he will take your troubles with him.

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Marital blessings -

In parts of England, a bride will have luck in her marriage if she receives a pudgy black cat as a gift.

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Attracting good fortune -

In Scotland, it is said that you'll have good fortune if a black cat appears at your doorway or on your porch.

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Something magical -

In France, it's believed that something magical is about to happen if you see a black cat.

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In dreams -

In other cultures around the world, it’s a sign of good luck if you dream about a black cat.

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Good luck if it’s walking towards you -

But not crossing your path? The rules of superstition can be so fickle.

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Finding a white hair -

Another funny one is that you’ll have good luck if you happen to find a white hair on a black cat.

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Lucky in love -

In Japan, it's believed you'll have luck in finding love if you spot a black cat.

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Black cat cafe in Japan -

There are many cat cafes, but only one dedicated solely to black cats: Nekobiyaka Cat Cafe.

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Other symbolism -

For some they might symbolize bad luck, for others they might symbolize that bad luck doesn’t exist. Regardless, black cats are often also associated with strength, sensuality, and elegance.

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There are also tons of them! -

There are more black cats than any other color because the black gene is most dominant for felines, according to the ASPCA.

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Adopt a black cat! -

Black Cat Day is celebrated on August 17. It was created in 2011 by Cats Protection in order to both celebrate them and help them get adopted. They could make a lucky companion, or at least you could get people to move out of your way! 

See also: These breeds make the purrfect house cats

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