Just four days away from Halloween is the less commonly known National Black Cat day. On Oct. 27, black cats are celebrated regardless of their perception as the symbol of bad luck and misfortune.
The belief of black cats bringing misfortune is ridiculous, in fact, it feels as if it’s a reflection of our own society.
The history of the stigma around black cats being bad luck, and ‘creatures of Satan,’ per se, goes as far back as the 13th century, but this was popularized by English and Germanic culture, and nearly everyone else just ran with it afterwards. However, in Irish, Japanese, French, and Chinese cultures, as per example, black cats are perceived as good omens, especially if one treats them kindly, such as feeding them.
People also happen to resent black cats just because they happen to be cats. The hatred of cats themselves runs into a very different topic and origin, but it’s still important to factor.
Cats are typically described as a selfish and spiteful species. They aren’t as outgoing and trustworthy as dogs, but nobody stops to think and consider that, perhaps, cats have boundaries.
We never sit to think about what cats may want. Unless it is a domestic species cat being rescued off the streets or the wilderness, they aren’t meant to be treated however we please. If your cat scratched you, maybe it was because your cat felt suffocated because you were trying to grab them, or put them in a ridiculous sweater or collar.
People only tend to prefer dogs because they are ‘more friendly,’ but maybe dogs just tolerate it more, yet not all dogs, either.
If you’ve ever seen one of those absolutely outraged chihuahuas, there’s a reason why they’re so upset.
But in all seriousness (and back on topic), let’s use National Black Cat day to remember that cats are just cute little animals, not a sign that your day will go badly. Happy Halloween!