Black cats

 

Honestly this is a sad topic but relevant. Most people are superstitious about black cats, in the 21st Century. Halloween is a horrific season of people killing black cats. These animals have been a target by the religious, especially Puritans and Pilgrims, who slaughtered black cats on Shrove Tuesday. They believed black cats are linked with demons and witchcraft. A lot of people are afraid of black cats so they refuse to adopt any. During Halloween there is a spike in abandoned black cats, animal cruelty towards black cats, avoiding black cats and also being left behind in shelters. Owners of black cats are warned to keep their pets safe indoors over Halloween. Some animal shelters don't want people adopting black cats over Halloween because of fears they'll be abused. 

There is no evidence that black cats are bringers of bad luck. Its just a superstition and has no basis on fact or reality. The problem is, many people are superstitious and believe it. Some of the most horrific incidents of cruelty and torture against black cats is found on a Peta article: 

https://www.peta.org/blog/halloween-horror-stories-black-cat-outdoors/ 

Unfortunately in the past, especially in medieval times, black cats were seen as unlucky during the spread of witch mania. In this period of time, when everyone was afraid of witches, cats were slaughtered everywhere. It was an era called "Cat Burning". 

Is there any hope for black cats? There are many cat lovers who disagree with the old superstition. There are some educated and more of the young increasingly aware that black cats are a force of love and affection. In Britain and Ireland, black cats are considered very lucky and positive. In England black cats are considered wedding gifts that bring happiness. In Scotland, a black cat found on your doorstep is a sign of good positive luck, wealth and prosperity. Throughout Japan, black cats are lucky.  I have a lot of cat friends and they include sweet natured friendly black cats. Many animal lovers set up National Black Cat Day on the 27th October. 

Posted by She Wolf Night