BLACK CAT APPRECIATION & MYTHS:

WHY THESE FELINES DESERVE LOVE

By: Door Buddy Editors      |     Published: 11 August 2025

Why Black Cats Still Get a Bad Rap (And How You Can Help)

Even today, myths about black cats persist. Despite their elegance, playfulness, and charm, they continue to be the underdogs (er, undercats?) of the feline world. Black cat adoption rates are lower than their colourful counterparts, and superstition still lingers, especially around Black Cat Appreciation Day, Black Cat Awareness Day, and Halloween.

It’s time we go beyond simply saying “Black cats are misunderstood” and start reshaping their story, with facts, fun, and fierce advocacy.

WHAT IS BLACK CAT APPRECIATION DAY?

Black Cat Appreciation Day is celebrated every year on August 17, a “purr-fect” moment to highlight how amazing these cats truly are.

Did You Know?

There’s also a National Black Cat Day (October 27), and some even celebrate National Black Cat Month in October! That’s a whole season to spotlight these misunderstood felines.

Why These Days Exist:

• Raise awareness about black cat adoption

• Bust outdated black cat superstitions

• Encourage the public to celebrate and protect these often-overlooked cats

Fun fact: “National Black Cat Day, August 17” has its own search volume, so yes, it’s a thing people actively look up!

MYTHS VS. FACTS: WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT BLACK CATS?

Let’s set the record straight with some edutainment:

THE DATA BEHIND BLACK CATS’ STIGMA

Even with the rise of cat influencers, black cats’ adoption rates still lag behind. Let’s look at the numbers:

• Black cats are often last to be adopted in shelters.

• Black cats for adoption remain longer in shelters, sometimes double the time of other colours.

• Melanism (the gene behind their dark fur) may offer disease resistance, making them healthier on average than other cats.

In the U.S., some shelters even pause black cat adoptions around Halloween due to safety concerns. That says a lot about the myths still swirling around these majestic felines.

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER ADOPTING A BLACK CAT

Beyond being adorable mini-panthers, here’s what is special about black cats:

• They’re loyal, loving, and playful

• Their sleek coat gives them an iconic, elegant look

• They’re often the most overlooked, meaning your decision to adopt saves a life others might ignore

Did You Know?

Some of the most popular black cat breeds include:

• Bombay (the ultimate mini panther)

• Oriental Shorthair

• British Shorthair

• Maine Coon (yes, they can be black too!)

BONUS: MYTHS ABOUT BLACK CATS VS. OTHER CREATURES

Let’s stop punishing animals for being misunderstood.

CONCLUSION : BLACK CAT APPRECIATION & MYTHS

This Black Cat Appreciation Day, do more than post a cute meme. Be part of a bigger mission to change hearts and minds.

You’re not just celebrating black cats, you’re helping rewrite their narrative. Whether it’s by sharing facts, donating, fostering, or adopting, your voice helps them shine.

Got a black cat? Share your story with the hashtag #blackcatglowup

Let’s turn fear into fandom, one post at a time!