Why Are Black Cats Facing Bias?

31% of the UK own a pet cat. Black cats are one of the most popular coats, however why are they the least adopted?

Reportedly, black cats are the least adopted in the domestic feline family and this has happened for many generations. According to the RSPCA, they are three times more likely to be taken into their care, in comparison to other cat breeds. The RSPCA have called the homing of the black cats "a rehoming crisis".  In the past, they have gained a unfavourable status for a range of unfair reasons.

One reason for their bias is because of their superstitious and magical reputation. Myths and misunderstandings surrounded the felines, as they were associated with bad luck. Gothic folklore linked the black cats to witches, whilst it was rumoured that they were associated with black magic and malevolent evil. Originally, it was believed that they were demons commanded down by witches and this prospered the black cat's biasness. Tragically, in the Salem Witch Trials (located in Massachusetts), black cats were killed, alongside twenty individuals were murdered. This evoked their supernatural notoriety. It is still believed by many that others still believe in this prejudice, that black cats are an unsafe pet.

Another reason for it is a consequence of religious beliefs. Allegedly, in 1223 that Pope Gregory IX, declared that black cats are slaves of Satan. Some believe because of this deep declaration, many Europeans killed the felines, which influenced the rise of rats. Many think that this contributed to the Black Death. Starting in 1347, rats increased the infection everywhere, causing 25 million people to die. However, this theory has succumbed to controversy because of its original source. Originally, this theory was discovered in an old internet post. The declaration sent by Pope Gregory IX, apparently mentions a statue of a black cat and not the actual species itself. In the text, it does not mention to kill any cats. Numerous people have questioned this theory but one thing is certain. Black cats deeply faced unfair prejudice during the medieval ages. Alongside this, other tales have surrounded the cats. In the past, people believed crossing paths with a black cat would give you bad luck. 

However, not all time periods and cultures believe that black cats are unlucky. Allegedly, places like: Britain, Japan and France believe encountering black cats gives you good luck. This is significantly seen with British sailers, as the felines used to hunt down pests and were view as a good fortune. Additionally, the personality of black cats are positive. They are known to be loving, intelligent and affectionate, despite their unfair reputation. Many also use the symbol of black cats to represent the spooky season. As autumn passes and halloween is near, next time you spot a black cat, think deeper about its misunderstood beliefs.