Black Cat Appreciation Day

During most of ancient history, cats were seen as lucky and were even worshiped by some ancient peoples. Unfortunately, that changed during the Middle Ages when some people began to look upon these animals as being bad luck, capable of stealing souls, or even witches in disguise.

And that has persisted even into modern times, with some people cringing as soon as a black cat crosses their path—believing it to be a sign of bad luck. Fortunately, people have begun to see how maligned the image of the black cat has been, and some have decided to change its image by designating August 17th as Black Cat Appreciation Day.

This holiday is a day that attempts to dispel the myths and superstitions surrounding these proud animals. And maybe this holiday has begun to change people’s attitudes about black cats, as it seems like there are more black cats in popular culture now than there have ever been.

The History of Black Cat Appreciation Day

Black Cat Appreciation Day is a holiday that was created in 2011 by Cats Protection. It was created because several studies had revealed that fewer people adopt black cats and that these cats spend a week longer, on average, before they’re adopted than other types of colored cats.

It became apparent that the image of black cats had to be repaired, so that’s why this holiday was created. It’s a holiday that celebrates the beauty of these cats and helps people realize that these cats make great pets.

Black Cats in Pop Culture

Since we’re on the subject of black cats, it’s worth noting that pop culture is full of references to these animals. They have made their way into cartoons, television shows, and movies over the last few decades. Below are some of the more iconic black cats that can be found in pop culture nowadays.

Although the following list is incomplete, it can give people interested in this holiday a good starting point from which they can begin to appreciate these iconic animals.

  • Felix the Cat
  • The Cat from Tales of the Darkside: The Movie
  • Winkie from Escape to Witch Mountain
  • Salem from Sabrina the Teenage Witch
  • Luna from Sailor Moon

How to Celebrate Black Cat Appreciation Day

One of the best ways to celebrate this holiday is by going to a local animal shelter and adopting a black cat. On this day, people are encouraged to adopt homeless and/or abused black cats from their local animal shelters since these animals are less likely to be adopted by people.

However, adopting a new black cat isn’t the only way to celebrate this holiday. There are other ways to celebrate this holiday and spread the word about it. People can spread pictures of black cats on social media or through blog posts, or create arts and crafts projects that are black cat-themed.

If they’re so inclined, they can even visit the Nekobiyaka Cat Cafe in Japan, where they can spend actual time petting a black cat without having to take it home.

When is it?
This year (2024)
August 17 Saturday
Next year (2025)
August 17 Sunday
Last year (2023)
August 17 Thursday
Topic
Animals