This blog article will address the subject “do black cats get adopted less?” and will go over themes such as why black cats are turned down for adoption, their historical significance, and lastly, why you should adopt these adorable felines.
BlacAre black cats less likely to be adopted?
People Refuse to Adopt Black Cats for 3 Reasons:
The color of a cat’s coat has a significant impact on its fate. Black cats are adopted for a longer amount of time than cats of other hues, according to statistics.
Non-ferocious black cats spent 20.64 days (SD = 21.02) on average to find a home at a Colorado shelter, whereas ferocious black cats took 26.55 days (SD = 25.09). While the difference in six days may appear insignificant, it might increase your cat’s risk of contracting a variety of ailments.
According to one research, staying at a shelter for a day raises the risk of upper respiratory tract infections by 5%. Cats kept in shelters for an extended period of time may develop stress-related rashes (such as feline herpes).
Black cats, on the other hand, are more likely to be euthanized at shelters. Black cats are marginally less likely to be adopted or killed than other colored cats, according to a recent study of almost 8,000 animals at a Kentucky shelter.
Anecdotal data suggests numerous probable causes for the “black cat bias,” or prejudice towards black cats. This list was deemed less appealing since dark species are more difficult to photograph. Adoptive parents have now been urged to seek for more appealing cats.
Adoption of a black cat may be hampered by superstition (it is thought that black cats bring ill-luck) and the black cat’s association with witchcraft or evil.
Because black cats don’t comprehend facial emotions effectively, they may look less friendly and energetic. Finally, the researchers speculate that racial bias may be at the root of anti-black cat prejudice.
What Does Psychological Study Say?
In a recent research, Jones and Hart (2019) aimed to scientifically analyze the prejudice towards black cats and its reasons. A total of 101 persons responded to their survey (83 percent were women). In an online survey, participants were asked to score 20 photos of cats with “neutral looks and postures.”
They looked at each cat’s affection and hostility, as well as its adoption readiness and ability to read facial expressions. They also used a range of methods to assess their personality, attitudes, and beliefs.
Researchers discovered that black and non-black cats are equally eligible for adoption, contrary to conventional assumptions. The findings, on the other hand, verified the black cat prejudice and offered three credible explanations for why individuals don’t get black cats:
- Explanation 1:
Black cats are said to be less friendly and aggressive than white cats. Non-black cats (M = 19.31, SD = 6.95) are less friendly (M = 35.46, SD = 7.29) and more aggressive (M = 20.86, SD = 8.09) than black cats (M = 35.46, SD = 7.29) than non-black cats (M = 20.86, SD = 8.09).
- Explanation 2:
Superstitions hold a tremendous hold on people. The more superstitious the participants were, the more biased they were against black cats, believing them to be lesser breeds that were less friendly and vicious.
People who are superstitious dispute the black cat’s capacity to interpret facial expressions, which leads to the discovery:
- Explanation 3:
People who believe they can’t read a black cat’s feelings. Understanding that black cats are not aware of emotions might help forecast prejudice towards them.
Those who didn’t think they could read the black cat’s feelings gave it a lower outgoing, aggressive, and pampering rating.
Some predictions were confirmed, but there were also some small finds. Discrimination against black cats was not linked to religious or racial stereotypes, as one might assume.
What Caused Black Cats to Have a Negative Reputation?
- Ancient cats’ apprehension:
It’s no wonder that folks are wary of our feline pets when you think about it. Early on in history, cats were big predators, and evidence suggests that people had to defend themselves in order to live.
Imagine living in a world where tigers had saber-toothed tiger fangs! Unlike our wolf friends, humans did not attempt to tame these dangerous creatures until much later, and it is our dread of them that keeps us alive and away from them.
- The Dark Ages are responsible for the fear of the Black Cat:
How did this fear spread thousands of years ago to a certain colored domestic cat? The origins of this concept are supposed to have been in Europe throughout the Middle Ages.
The story of a man and his child who came across a black cat and started throwing stones has gone viral. Everyone believed the injured cat was the woman when she emerged lame and beaten the next day at the residence of a lady suspected of being a witch.
- The Witch and the Black Cat:
During the witch hunts in Europe, this heinous practice was carried out all throughout Europe, culminating in the Salem Witch Trials.
Black cats are connected with demons and evil, and have been accused of doing sorcery.
Witches have been known to transform into black cats to hide in the dark and cast charms on humans, and black cats are thought to facilitate witches’ wicked actions.
At the same period, witches and black cats were feared and killed. Isn’t it a sickening situation?
- Not everyone, however, disliked black cats:
Regardless, there have always been a lot of enthusiasts of black cats! The black cat was treasured by the ancient Egyptians, who believed it to be the home of the gods.
Black cats were thought to be a good omen in different parts of Europe throughout the nineteenth century.
The black cat on the pouch was supposed to bring good fortune to the Irish, and the black cat is also treasured in Japan as a sign of wealth.
Fortunately for cat lovers, this pesky superstition has mostly faded away, and black cats may now be found in many households throughout the globe.
Black cats, on the other hand, are still tortured and dreaded by many people today.
Halloween. As a result, we are always on the lookout for black cat owners throughout this season in order to ensure their safety indoors. As someone who owns and cares for black cats, I can tell you that the fur color will not disappoint.
Yes, I was bitten or scratched on occasion, and yes, he did bring the mouse home as a “gift” on several occasions. Any cat owner, on the other hand, can attest to this. It’s a cat, not a nefarious witch.
There have been black cats for the remainder of the period:
Priestesses had long petted cats, who were venerated as the embodiment of the gods. The goddess Diana (who later became known as the Queen of the Witches) was connected with cats in Ancient Rome, and they were venerated as a sign of fertility.
When Rome became Christian, the black cat was perceived as a portent of terrible success rather than its picture of life, and something to do with the old Pagan traditions had to be forgotten.
The Middle Ages in Europe:
Things are just getting worse for black cats! Even when they performed things like capture and kill mice, they were linked to the devil and how he catches souls, and how the devil transforms into a black cat when he catches humans. I persuaded you that you could accomplish it.
Cats, particularly black cats, were thought to be intimately affiliated with witches and were so punished. Cats are subjected to a variety of terrible games, customs, and witch hunts around Europe.
You Should Adopt a Black Cat for 10 Reasons:
Now that we’ve figured out why black cats aren’t as well-liked as their colorful counterparts, let’s attempt to figure out why you may want them in your home in the first place.
Due to myths, black cats have a poor reputation, making it difficult for them to find a home. As veterinarians, we’re here to warn you that myths and superstitions aren’t true.
The only downside is that they don’t have one. These sleek, interesting cats make fantastic companions. There are a slew of compelling reasons to get a black cat:
- In certain cultures, it is said to bring good fortune:
Do you struggle to overcome your superstitions? If that’s the case, you should be aware that black cats are said to bring good fortune in many cultures. In the United Kingdom, women who have black cats are regarded to be lucky in love.
The skipper used to bring a black cat on board to protect the crew at sea. A black cat crossing your path is seen as a fortunate charm in Asia. Embrace positivism rather than focusing on harmful superstitions!
- They are heirs to the throne:
Almost every cat believes he or she should be treated like a king or queen. Black cats, on the other hand, have long been associated with royalty. They held a prominent position in ancient Egypt.
They were so esteemed that assassinating one was punishable by death. Black cats have been mummified and entombed, much like pharaohs, to assure their appropriate position in the afterlife.
Adopting one of today’s black cats, who are descended from those lineages, is the most effective method to bring a sense of dignity into your home.
- The eyes of a black cat are magnificent:
Black cats get their color from an excess of melanin. These lovely women’s vivid yellow eyes are solely due to melanin. We can all agree that cats have beautiful eyes, but losing yourself in those golden orbs is absolutely magical.
- They resemble little panthers in appearance:
To bring the majesty and elegance of a black panther into your home, the easiest (and safest!) option is to rent a black cat.
“House panthers,” as black cats are commonly called, flourish in a unique setting that permits them to venture into the wild without requiring special permission.
- Black is a hue that everyone can relate to:
No matter what style you have, you’ll have no trouble harmonizing with your black cat. They compliment a wide range of furniture colors and styles.
If your cat wants to snuggle a little while you’re getting ready for a black tie event, you won’t have to worry about finding a lint roller. White cats, on the other hand, are not like this!
- They have extraordinary personalities:
Don’t let their reputation fool you. Black cats aren’t scary at all. Many black cats are joyful, lively, and energetic, despite the fact that each cat has its own personality.
It’s like trying to overcome negative opinions by producing a cute cub. If you want a loyal and caring friend, choose a black cat.
- There Are Only a Few Health Concerns:
According to the research, black cats have an evolutionary advantage because of their natural concealment. They may also be less prone to sickness than other felines, according to a study.
Despite the fact that further research on felines is needed, specialists have determined that black-coated cats are more resistant to illnesses like the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Of course, all cats, regardless of color, need to see a vet on a regular basis.
- They’ve got a lot of celebrity clout on their side:
If you’ve ever wanted to join the ranks of Fred Astaire, Marlon Brando, John Lennon, and Patti Smith, get a black cat. From movie stars and artists to authors and prominent politicians, everyone lives in this Panteresque.
It is also enjoyed by people in popular culture. Who can forget Sabrina the Teenage Witch’s horrific Salem or Felix the Cat’s frightening Salem? On Instagram, there are a number of well-known black cats!
- Love is a colorless emotion:
Your feline companion is uninterested with your hair color. They’ll admire you whether you’re blonde, brunette, or tinted in every color of the rainbow. Why should you dismiss a cat because it has black hair?
- You have the power to save someone’s life:
What are the best reasons for getting a black cat? You’re going to save a lot of people’s lives.
Black cats are more likely than other cats to spend time in shelters and to be overlooked. Giving a heart and a home to a black cat gives your favorite pet a second chance.
Conclusions
If images of a terrifying black cat with sharp fangs and shaggy fur spring to mind, it’s time to let go of your fears and superstitions and appreciate these amazing and beautiful creatures for what they truly are: deserving of their proper owners. It’s a terrific pleasure to share a home with a black cat.
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