The tail of black cats: 6 intriguing facts

These inky feline friends have a long history of bad reputation linked to superstition. But, just like all cats, they make perfect companions for us humans and deserve our love and protection.

Here are our favourite facts about black cats!

1. "Black cat" is not a breed

There are 22 recognised breeds of cats with pitch-black coats, the most common of which is the Bombay cat. Some even have black whiskers and paws!

2. Getting rusty

A cat's fur colour is related to a specific gene. If the cat also has a dominant tabby gene, exposure to the sun can make the pigments in their fur break down to reveal rusty hues. Like a kitty suntan, but it's not to be ignored as it can sometimes be a sign of nutrient deficiency.

3. Sailor's luck

Historically, cats were welcome aboard vessels as they provided the important service of hunting mice. Sailors thought that black cats, in particular, brought them good luck! Some of these maritime kitties are remembered in Navy history - like Tiddles, who travelled over 30,000 miles aboard Royal Navy vessels.

4. Golden eyes

Black cats produce a lot of melanin, which is the pigment that makes their coats dark. This pigment also contributes to giving some cats beautiful amber-coloured eyes.

5. Feline lucky

In some areas of the world, black cats are a symbol of good luck. German folklore says that if a black cat crosses your path going from right to left, good things are on the horizon for you.

6. A "tail" of gods and goddesses

In ancient Egypt, cats were considered sacred, and because of that they were worshipped and protected. In fact, every house or temple looked after at least one cat, as it was seen as a way to bring good luck and worship the goddess Bastet (depicted as a woman with the head of a black cat).

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