Black Cat Superstitions

There are many superstitions surrounding black cats-Friday the 13th, for example. For any of our readers who suffer from a serious case of friggatriskaidekaphobia (the fear of Friday the 13th), you may be greatly relieved by learning that the Dutch Centre for Insurance Statistics claim that "Fewer accidents and reports of fire and theft occur when the 13th of the month falls on a Friday, than on other Fridays, because people are preventatively more careful or just stay at home.”

Friday the 13th is a day that is certainly filled with superstitions. Some of these common superstitions make good sense; walking under a ladder might result in something hitting us in the head, and opening an umbrella indoors could poke a hole in the wall or damage precious furniture. One Friday the 13th superstition that should be ignored, however, is worrying about a black cat crossing your path.

Good Black Cat Superstitions

While these mysterious felines have historically been associated with bad luck and have been persecuted as evil beings throughout the ages, why not think on the positive side?

In some parts of Europe, if a black cat crosses your path, this is a sign that good fortune awaits you and you have been truly blessed. In Scotland, if an unfamiliar black cat sits on your porch, it is considered a huge honor, and predictive of good fortune. Additionally, if an uninvited black cat brazenly walks into your home, your blessings are ten-fold. Furthermore, since some countries associate good luck with encountering three black cats in a row, I would imagine that touching a black cat on Friday the 13th would bring inordinate rewards.

Italy has done its part to debunk the nasty reputation black cats have garnered over the years. Several years ago, the country gave a special tribute to these beauties by celebrating Black Cat Day. They are even considered good luck charms and positive omens. These beautiful felines are revered by many cultures around the world and not considered an evil prediction at all.

So, purrhaps instead of worrying about negative black cat superstitions, why not adopt a black kitty from your local shelter? You may enjoy good luck, fortune, and of course, a sweet little black cat to love.

Are you concerned about Friday the 13th? Share your thoughts in a comment.