Are you superstitious?
Many people believe that black cats are unlucky or associated with weird things, like the number 13. It’s a common superstition that has persisted for centuries, leading to a phenomenon known as “black cat bias.” This bias sadly causes black cats to be less likely to be adopted than cats of other colors1.
It’s time to break free from these outdated beliefs— black cats are just as loving and wonderful as any other cat. In fact, a study by UC Davis found that owners tend to rate their black cats as more affectionate compared to cats of other colors2.
Black cats are cool, period. And no superstition can change that.
1. Bombay
The Bombay cat is the only breed that exclusively comes in a sleek, black coat. Created in the 1950s by crossing American Shorthairs with Burmese cats, the Bombay was designed to resemble a miniature black panther. These cats are known for their muscular build and striking copper or gold eyes.
2. Persian
Persian cats are one of the most popular breeds worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. With their luxurious long coats and gentle personalities, these cats are the epitome of elegance. Black Persians are particularly stunning, with their inky fur contrasting beautifully with their bright copper eyes.
3. Maine Coon
Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds, with males weighing up to 18 pounds. Despite their impressive size, these cats are known for their gentle, friendly personalities. Black Maine Coons are particularly striking, with their long, fluffy coats and tufted ears.
4. Sphynx
Okay, so technically the Sphynx isn’t a black cat breed, but hear us out. These hairless cats often have black skin pigmentation, giving them a unique and striking appearance. Sphynxes are known for their outgoing, curious personalities and love of human companionship.
While Sphynxes don’t have fur to groom, they do require regular bathing to remove the natural oils that build up on their skin. They also need to be kept warm in cooler weather, as they lack the insulation provided by a fur coat.
5. British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are a popular breed known for their round faces, dense coats, and laid-back personalities. Black British Shorthairs have a particularly striking appearance, with their jet-black fur and copper eyes reminiscent of the grinning Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland.
6. American Shorthair
American Shorthairs are a classic breed that has been a favorite among cat lovers for generations. These cats come in a variety of colors, including a stunning solid black. They’re known for their athletic build, friendly personalities, and adaptability to different living situations.
Black American Shorthairs have a sleek, glossy coat that is easy to maintain with regular brushing. They’re also known for their excellent hunting skills, thanks to their history as working cats on farms and ships.
7. Japanese Bobtail
Known for their short, rabbit-like tails, Japanese Bobtails are an ancient breed with a rich history. These cats come in both long and short coat varieties, and can have a sleek black color. They are active, intelligent, and adaptable felines who love to play fetch and carry toys in their mouths.
8. Savannah
The exotic Savannah cat is a hybrid breed created by crossing domestic cats with African Servals. These large, leggy cats can have striking black coats with contrasting spots or stripes.
Savannahs are confident, active, and adventurous felines who need lots of enrichment and interaction. They are not ideal for first-time cat owners, but can make wonderful companions for experienced, dedicated pet parents.
9. Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds are a unique breed known for their distinctive folded ears, which give them an owl-like appearance. These cats come in a variety of colors, including solid black. They’re known for their round, expressive eyes and sweet, gentle personalities.
10. Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthairs are a breed that was developed by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs. These cats have the round, fluffy appearance of a Persian, but with a shorter, denser coat that is easier to maintain. Black Exotic Shorthairs have a particularly cute, teddy bear-like look.
11. Siberian
Siberian cats are a large, fluffy breed that originated in Russia. These cats come in a variety of colors, including solid black. They’re known for their thick, luxurious coats, which are designed to withstand harsh winter weather.
Interestingly, Siberians are often considered to be hypoallergenic, as they produce less of the protein that triggers allergies in some people. (ref) This makes them a good choice for cat lovers who are allergic to other breeds.
12. Manx
Manx cats are a unique breed that originated on the Isle of Man. These cats are known for their distinctive taillessness, which is caused by a natural genetic mutation. They come in a variety of colors, including solid black.
Embracing the Beauty and Charm of Black Cats
So there you have it – 13 enchanting black cat breeds that are sure to steal your heart.
But beyond their aesthetic appeal, black cats also have some impressive health benefits. Studies have shown that the gene responsible for black fur may also confer resistance to certain diseases, including feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). (ref) This means that black cats may be hardier and healthier than their lighter-colored counterparts.
Each of these 13 breeds has its own unique history, appearance, and personality. Whether you prefer a laid-back lapcat or an active adventure buddy, there’s a perfect black kitty out there for you.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.