Debunking Myths About Black Cats: PDSA Vets Share Stunning Details

We’re a nation of cat lovers with an estimated 11 million residing as pets within the UK*. Nevertheless, generally sure traits imply pets could be a little ignored and sadly, black cats are considered one of them.

Not solely do rehoming charities typically have black cats ready longer to seek out properties than different cats, however in a world dominated by social media, black cats are additionally typically mentioned to be ‘much less photogenic’ than different extra ‘vibrant’ cats.

For Nationwide Black Cat Day this August, PDSA vets along with PDSA Pet Insurance coverage have debunked a few of the most typical myths about black cats.

“Good luck, dangerous luck, a witch’s pet… there’s a number of myths round our mysterious feline associates and we’ll admit that not all of them are nice,” explains PDSA Vet Lynne James.

“We, nonetheless, suppose black cats are fantastic and there’s a great deal of causes they’ll make sensible pets.”

Lynne has debunked a few of the greatest myths surrounding black cats.

1. We don’t reside within the center ages.

“It’s thought that the black cats and witches fable began someday within the center ages. We’re speaking a thousand years in the past right here. They’ve gotten an entire damaging repute primarily based on fable, when actually they’re no completely different to every other cat.

2. Black cats are literally good luck!

“Sailors used to take black cats aboard ships not solely to catch mice but in addition as a result of they believed they introduced them good luck. In Scotland, a black cat turning up at your door is an indication of prosperity!

3. They *may* reside longer.

“Based on researchers on the Nationwide Institute of Well being, the gene that causes their fur to be black might additionally defend them towards sure illnesses. So your black cat could also be scientifically much less prone to fall ailing with sure illnesses.

4. Black cats may also help your love life.

“Consider it or not, in some elements of the world black cats are thought-about ‘matchmakers’ and are thought to assist their homeowners discover real love! They’re even believed to be the right wedding ceremony present in some areas of the UK as they’re thought to convey luck and happiness to the bride.

5. They had been worshipped.

“In Historical Egypt, all cats had been worshipped – together with black cats. All cats had been seen as sacred. In actual fact, the Egyptian goddess Bastet (who protected the house from evil spirits and illness) is usually portrayed as having the physique of a girl and the top of a black cat. Bastet continues to be worshipped in the present day and her safety is believed by some to be forged over trendy cats.”

PDSA is the UK’s largest vet charity offering a significant service for pets throughout the UK whose homeowners wrestle to afford remedy prices for his or her sick and injured pets. For a lot of susceptible pets, PDSA is there to assist when there’s nowhere else for his or her homeowners to show.

The charity’s insurance coverage arm, PDSA Pet Insurance coverage, affords a variety of insurance policies to cowl cats and canines for accidents and sickness, in addition to offering entry to a 24/7 veterinary helpline. Each coverage offered raises funds for the charity’s life-saving veterinary work.

To seek out out extra go to www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-insurance-pdsa

*Based on the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report 2023.