Black Cat Appreciation Day

Catherine Griffith
Aug 15, 2025
2 min read

Mark your calendars—this coming Sunday, August 17, is Black Cat Appreciation Day, a perfect moment to shower love and gratitude on our sleek, shadowy friends!

Why We Adore Black Cats

Myth-busters unite! Once seen as harbingers of bad luck—thanks to medieval superstitions tying them to witchcraft—black cats have plenty of positive folklore backing them today, especially in Japan, Scotland, and Germany where they’re symbols of good luck and prosperity.
Nature’s stealthy charmers: That gorgeous glossy coat isn’t just aesthetic—black cats’ high melanin content may actually offer certain health advantages, and in sunlight their coats can gently “rust” into a reddish-brown hue, giving them that majestic glow.
More than just fur color: Black cats aren’t one breed—they span as many as 22 recognized breeds (with the Bombay made exclusively black), and each one sports its own personality and charm.

Let’s Celebrate: Ways to Show the Love

Cuddle, play, repeat. If you already share your life with a black cat—pamper them! Extra head scratches, a new toy, or just hanging out together is a heartwarming way to celebrate.
Hero status for black cats in shelters. Unfortunately, lingering myths mean black cats often hang out in shelters longer than their lighter-colored counterparts. Many shelters mark August 17 with special adoption promotions or waived fees.
Spread the love (and the facts). Share stories, photos, or fun facts on social media to dispel outdated myths and highlight just how lovable black cats are. Hashtags like #BlackCatAppreciationDay help amplify the love.
Volunteer or donate. No cat in your home right now? Lean into local shelters—giving your time, cat toys, or treats makes a big difference and gives black cats the extra attention they deserve.
Pop culture fun. Get nostalgic with black cat icons in media—like Salem from Sabrina, the Teenage Witch or Thackery Binx from Hocus Pocus. They remind us how much charm and personality black cats bring into stories (and our lives).

Why It Matters

Black Cat Appreciation Day isn’t just a fun feline celebration—it’s an invitation to rethink our biases and make space for every cat, regardless of coat color. By sharing joy, spreading facts, and supporting adoption, we're helping ensure more of these jewel-toned kitties find a loving home.

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