Black cats are lucky. Ask anyone who lives with one.
Black Cat Mom is a home for people who love cats, with a soft spot for the black ones. Real facts, honest care answers and gear we would put in our own homes.
Why black cats are special
A black cat is not a breed. It is a coat color caused by melanism, the same trait that makes a "black panther" black. Many cat breeds can be solid black, and one, the Bombay, is always black. Black cats have the same personalities and health needs as any other cat; the main difference is the superstition people attached to them, and that is changing fast.
Black cat facts
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Myth or fact?
Five quick questions. How well do you know black cats?
Black cats bring bad luck.
How old is your cat in human years?
Move the slider. This follows the common vet rule of thumb: the first year equals about 15 human years, the second about 9 more, and each year after that about 4.
A 3-year-old cat is about 28 in human years. Young adult
Every cat ages differently. Your vet can tell you what your cat needs at each stage.
Gear picks for every cat
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- Interactive toysWands, puzzle feeders and chasers for indoor hunters.Browse on Amazon
- Cat trees and scratchersHeight to climb and a legal place to scratch.Browse on Amazon
- Window perches and bedsSunbathing spots (yes, black fur loves the sun).Browse on Amazon
- Water fountainsMoving water that many cats drink more of.Browse on Amazon
- Brushes and lint rollersKeep the shine on the cat, not on your sofa.Browse on Amazon
- Litter boxesCovered, open and easy-clean options.Browse on Amazon
- Bowls and slow feedersAsk your vet what and how much to feed.Browse on Amazon
- Black cat giftsMugs, shirts and jewelry for black cat people.Browse on Amazon
- Black cat decorYear-round, not just for October.Browse on Amazon
- Cat care booksBehavior and care guides worth reading.Browse on Amazon
Food, supplements and anything health related: ask your veterinarian before you buy.
Two days a year just for black cats
17 August27 October
August 17 is Black Cat Appreciation Day in the United States. October 27 is National Black Cat Day in the UK, started by the charity Cats Protection.
Around Halloween, keep your cat indoors, make sure the collar tag or microchip details are current, and keep candy (especially chocolate) out of reach.
Black cats, up close
Show us your black cat
Post a photo with #BlackCatMom and tell us their name. Tip: shoot in soft daylight near a window, skip the flash, and pick a lighter background so the fur keeps its shine.
Black cat questions, answered
Are black cats bad luck?
No. The idea comes from old European superstitions that linked black cats to witchcraft. In parts of Britain and Japan, and among sailors, black cats have long been seen as good luck. A cat's coat color says nothing about its personality.
Why is my black cat's fur turning brown?
The most common reason is sun exposure, which can lighten black fur to a rusty brown. Diet and some health conditions can also change coat color, so if the change is sudden or comes with other symptoms, ask your veterinarian.
Is the Bombay the only black cat breed?
The Bombay is the only breed that is always black. Many other breeds, including the Persian, Maine Coon, British Shorthair and American Shorthair, can have solid black coats too. Most black cats are mixed-breed domestic cats.
When is Black Cat Day?
Black Cat Appreciation Day is August 17 in the United States. National Black Cat Day is October 27 in the United Kingdom.
Do black cats have more health problems?
Coat color on its own is not known to make black cats less healthy. Breed, age, weight and routine care matter far more. Yearly checkups with your veterinarian are the best way to keep any cat healthy.
What should I feed my black cat?
The same as any cat: a food labeled "complete and balanced" for your cat's life stage. The right amount depends on age, weight and health, so ask your veterinarian for a plan.
How do I take good photos of a black cat?
Use soft natural light from a window, turn off the flash, and choose a lighter background. Tap your phone screen on the fur so the camera exposes for the cat, and focus on the eyes.
How do I keep my black cat safe on Halloween?
Keep your cat indoors, give them a quiet room away from the door, check that the ID tag and microchip details are up to date, and keep candy and decorations out of reach.