{"id":3745,"date":"2024-09-09T10:15:44","date_gmt":"2024-09-09T10:15:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.petbnb.nl\/?p=3745"},"modified":"2025-10-08T23:25:43","modified_gmt":"2025-10-08T23:25:43","slug":"bijgeloof-waarom-zeggen-ze-dat-zwarte-katten-ongeluk-brengen","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.petbnb.nl\/en\/superstition-why-do-they-say-black-cats-bring-bad-luck\/","title":{"rendered":"Superstition: why do they say black cats bring bad luck?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\nSuperstitions surrounding black cats (and dogs) have existed for centuries. From medieval myths to modern misconceptions, the color black has often been unfairly given a dark connotation. In this article, we unravel the origins, share cultural differences and show you what you can do to break the stigma.\n<\/p>\n

\nWhere did this superstition come from?
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In the Middle Ages, \"the unknown\" was quickly associated with danger. Night, death and the color black were linked. Cats are nocturnal animals, and black cats stood out especially: thus came stories of witches and \"demonic\" companions. That symbolism stuck around for a long time and influenced how people viewed black animals. [link to article on topic]<\/p>\n

Yet the image is not universally negative. In parts of Scotland, a black cat was considered lucky to have a new home. In Japan, black cats are seen as fortunate - especially for women seeking a mate.<\/p>\n

\n \"Black
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\nWhat about black dogs?
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Legends also exist around black dogs. In English folklore, the \"Black Shuck\" warns of doom. Such stories gave black dogs a mysterious, sometimes creepy image.<\/p>\n

In contrast, there are rituals in which dogs are actually honored, regardless of color. During Nepal's Tihar festival, dogs receive garlands of flowers and treats as thanks for their loyalty. [link to article on topic]<\/p>\n

\n \"Black
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\nSuperstition today
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Although we now know better, you can still see the influence in adoption rates. Black dogs and cats are sometimes skipped in shelters: \"black dog syndrome\" or \"black cat bias.\" It is an unconscious effect of old stories \u00e1nd of how dark-colored animals stand out less in photos.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, the counter-movement is growing: shelters and owners are deliberately sharing beautiful, well-exposed photos of black animals and telling their stories. This way, more people are discovering how sweet, funny and unique they are. [link to article on topic]<\/p>\n

\n \"Black
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\nWhat you can do
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