Black cat

Black Cat

A black cat is a domestic cat with black fur that can be a mixed or specific breed, or a common domestic cat of no particular breed. The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) recognizes 22 cat breeds that can come with solid black coats. The Bombay breed is exclusively black. All-black fur pigmentation is slightly more prevalent in male cats than female cats. Their high melanin pigment content causes most black cats to have yellow (golden) eyes (irises).

History and folklore

Throughout history, black cats have been associated with many superstitions and myths. In some cultures, they are considered good luck, while in others, they are associated with bad luck or evil omens.

In Ancient Egypt, black cats were held in high esteem. Killing a black cat, even accidentally, was considered a grave sin. In Celtic mythology, it was believed that fairies could take the form of black cats, and thus harming a black cat could bring misfortune or death.

In the Middle Ages, black cats were often associated with witches and witchcraft. This belief was especially prevalent during the witch hunts in Europe and the Salem witch trials in America.

Black Cat Breeds

There are several breeds of cats that can have solid black coats, including the Bombay, Maine Coon, and Persian. The Bombay breed is specifically bred to achieve a panther-like black coat.

Genetics

The gene for black color in cats is found in the B locus. The dominant allele B codes for black, while the recessive allele b codes for chocolate. A cat with two recessive alleles (bb) will be chocolate, while a cat with at least one dominant allele (Bb or BB) will be black.

Health

Black cats have been found to have lower odds of developing or dying from certain diseases. They are less likely to suffer from feline HIV and certain types of cancer. However, they are more prone to being overweight and developing hairballs.

See also

• Cat coat genetics
• Feline leukemia virus
• Feline immunodeficiency virus