National Black Cat Appreciation Day
In the Obscure Holiday Calendar app, National Black Cat Appreciation Day 🐈⬛ includes custom visuals, smart reminders, and fast share links.
Overview
National Black Cat Appreciation Day, observed annually on August 17th, is dedicated to celebrating the unique beauty, charm, and loving nature of black cats. The day aims to dispel harmful superstitions and negative stereotypes often associated with these felines, encouraging people to recognize their often overlooked status in animal shelters and promoting their adoption as cherished companions.
Origin and story
Historically, black cats were associated with bad luck in parts of medieval Europe, but were considered good luck and symbols of prosperity in ancient Egypt, Japan, and parts of the UK.
A black cat's fur color is due to a dominant gene, and they can have either amber, green, or gold eyes, which often stand out strikingly against their dark coats.
Quick facts
- DateAugust 17
- TypePets / Animals
- Great forPet parents, Shelters, Veterinarians
Also on this date
Ways to celebrate
Black cats were once sacred protectors in ancient Egypt, then centuries later became targets of medieval witch hunts — the exact same animal, treated as a completely different omen depending on where and when you asked.
Show one some love
Celebrate by:
- Spending real time with a black cat today, yours or a friend's.
- Sharing a photo of a black cat you know, tagged with something other than a superstition joke.
See how the superstition actually evolved
Helpful resources:
Did you know?
A 1233 papal decree by Pope Gregory IX explicitly linked cats, especially black ones, to heretical rituals — a document historians point to as a major turning point that helped cement centuries of European superstition around them.
Fun facts
- Historically, black cats were associated with bad luck in parts of medieval Europe, but were considered good luck and symbols of prosperity in ancient Egypt, Japan, and parts of the UK.
- A black cat's fur color is due to a dominant gene, and they can have either amber, green, or gold eyes, which often stand out strikingly against their dark coats.
- Black cats are statistically less likely to be adopted from shelters compared to cats of other colors, often spending more time waiting for a home.
Sources and attribution
Why Black Cats Are Associated With Halloween and Bad Luck (HISTORY)
External links may lead to third-party websites.
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FAQ
- When is National Black Cat Appreciation Day?
- It is observed on August 17 each year.
- What is National Black Cat Appreciation Day?
- National Black Cat Appreciation Day, observed annually on August 17th, is dedicated to celebrating the unique beauty, charm, and loving nature of black cats. The day aims to dispel harmful superstitions and negative stereotypes often associated with these felines, encouraging people to recognize their often overlooked status in animal shelters and promoting their adoption as cherished companions.
- How do people celebrate National Black Cat Appreciation Day?
- Spend real time with a black cat today and share a photo of one without a superstition joke attached.
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