top-cats

Aug 09, 2021 · Mise à jour le Aug 02, 2026

10 Things to Know About Black Cats

Often victims of false beliefs and superstitions, our black cats actually have a lot of love and tenderness to offer us! The origin of their beautiful coat, anecdotes, and superstitions, here are 10 things you absolutely need to know about black cats, adorable felines with the looks of panthers. #1 The B Gene Behind Their Coat Color The main gene responsible for the color of our cats' coats is the B gene. It can appear as B (dominant), giving the black color, or as b (recessive), giving the chocolate color. All cats carry the B gene, but color variations are related to other genes located on other chromosomes that influence the expression of B. Note that some black cats may have their coat "redden." We explain why in our article: why my cat's fur is turning reddish. You can also find all our tips on how to make your cat's coat shiny. #2 They Often Have Yellow or Golden Eyes Due to Melanism Melanism is the opposite of albinism. It is a genetic phenomenon that causes the completely black coat color and gives the cat golden or yellow irises. #3 Doubtful Superstitions Prejudices and archaic beliefs penalize our beloved black cats. For a long time, people believed they belonged to witches or were symbols of bad luck. In Ireland, an old legend says that black cats are actually leprechauns, who take on their appearance to get closer to humans. #4 A Good Luck Charm in Japan and the United Kingdom In Japan, the superstition about black cats being "bad luck" doesn't exist. On the contrary, every cat, regardless of its coat color, brings good fortune and is believed to have the ability to attract wealth. They are called "Maneki-Neko," which literally translates to "inviting cat." In certain parts of England and Ireland, encountering a black cat is not considered bad luck, but rather a sign of good fortune. #5 Many Black Cats in Shelters Black cats are reportedly less adopted than cats with different coat colors. According to a study conducted by the RSPCA, a black or black-and-white cat takes, on average, 10 more days to get adopted compared to a ginger cat. Besides superstitions, there’s another surprising reason for the low adoption rate: some people consider them less "Instagrammable" than other cats... We find them absolutely stunning and particularly photogenic, as you can see in the photos in this article! Psst: August 17th is International Black Cat Day. This day was created to raise awareness about the great cause of black cats and to encourage people to adopt one. #6 Black Cats Can Be in Danger Around Halloween In some places, shelters refuse to adopt out black cats several weeks before Halloween, fearing they might be sacrificed. #7 They Are Little Panthers in the Living Room Their coat highlights their eyes, which shine brightly. And their way of moving, with grace and agility, gives them the appearance of wild felines. So classy! #8 The Bombay, a Breed of Black Cat The Bombay is recognizable by its shiny black coat. Even its paw pads and nose are black. Contrary to what their name might suggest, they are not from India but from the United States. It was breeder Nikki Horner who decided to develop a breed of cat resembling a small panther. #9 Famous Black Cats Famous black cats include Salem, the cat from *Sabrina the Teenage Witch*. Also, Snowball II, the cat from *The Simpsons*, appears in several episodes. There’s also Luna, from the manga *"Sailor Moon*". And finally, Oscar the Bionic Cat, who received two prosthetics to replace his rear legs after an accident. #10 Black Cats Are Often Described as Affectionate but Also Shy Black cat owners often describe them as affectionate and almost clingy, but also intuitive and sometimes shy. Of course, coat color doesn’t influence a cat’s personality. However, it’s possible to draw a connection to how black cats have been treated for centuries by superstitious people. We love our cats just the way they are, for the happiness and love they bring us every day. We feed them accordingly, with a healthy and balanced diet that provides them with quality protein. Choosing healthy food is an investment directly in your little companion’s health.

chat noir aux yeux jaunes avec son lit en arrière plan

#1 The B Gene Behind Their Coat Color

The main gene responsible for the color of our cats' coats is the B gene. It can appear as B (dominant), giving the black color, or as b (recessive), giving the chocolate color. All cats carry the B gene, but color variations are related to other genes located on other chromosomes that influence the expression of B.

Note that some black cats may have their coat "redden." We explain why in our article: why my cat's fur is turning reddish.

You can also find all our tips on how to make your cat's coat shiny.

black cat

#2 They Often Have Yellow or Golden Eyes Due to Melanism

Melanism is the opposite of albinism. It is a genetic phenomenon that causes the completely black coat color and gives the cat golden or yellow irises.

things to know about black cats

#3 Doubtful Superstitions

Prejudices and archaic beliefs penalize our beloved black cats. For a long time, people believed they belonged to witches or were symbols of bad luck.

In Ireland, an old legend says that black cats are actually leprechauns, who take on their appearance to get closer to humans.

black cat

#4 A Good Luck Charm in Japan and the United Kingdom

In Japan, the superstition about black cats being "bad luck" doesn't exist. On the contrary, every cat, regardless of its coat color, brings good fortune and is believed to have the ability to attract wealth. They are called "Maneki-Neko," which literally translates to "inviting cat."

In certain parts of England and Ireland, encountering a black cat is not considered bad luck, but rather a sign of good fortune.

black cats

#5 Many Black Cats in Shelters

Black cats are reportedly less adopted than cats with different coat colors. According to a study conducted by the RSPCA, a black or black-and-white cat takes, on average, 10 more days to get adopted compared to a ginger cat.

Besides superstitions, there’s another surprising reason for the low adoption rate: some people consider them less "Instagrammable" than other cats... We find them absolutely stunning and particularly photogenic, as you can see in the photos in this article!

Psst: August 17th is International Black Cat Day. This day was created to raise awareness about the great cause of black cats and to encourage people to adopt one.

black cats

#6 Black Cats Can Be in Danger Around Halloween

In some places, shelters refuse to adopt out black cats several weeks before Halloween, fearing they might be sacrificed.

things to know about black cats

#7 They Are Little Panthers in the Living Room

Their coat highlights their eyes, which shine brightly. And their way of moving, with grace and agility, gives them the appearance of wild felines. So classy!

black cats

#8 The Bombay, a Breed of Black Cat

The Bombay is recognizable by its shiny black coat. Even its paw pads and nose are black. Contrary to what their name might suggest, they are not from India but from the United States. It was breeder Nikki Horner who decided to develop a breed of cat resembling a small panther.

Bombay black cat

#9 Famous Black Cats

Famous black cats include Salem, the cat from *Sabrina the Teenage Witch*.

Also, Snowball II, the cat from *The Simpsons*, appears in several episodes.

There’s also Luna, from the manga *"Sailor Moon*".

And finally, Oscar the Bionic Cat, who received two prosthetics to replace his rear legs after an accident.

#10 Black Cats Are Often Described as Affectionate but Also Shy

Black cat owners often describe them as affectionate and almost clingy, but also intuitive and sometimes shy.

Of course, coat color doesn’t influence a cat’s personality. However, it’s possible to draw a connection to how black cats have been treated for centuries by superstitious people.

We love our cats just the way they are, for the happiness and love they bring us every day. We feed them accordingly, with a healthy and balanced diet that provides them with quality protein. Choosing healthy food is an investment directly in your little companion’s health.

black cats

D'autres articles qui pourraient vous intéresser

top-cats

Nov 10, 2022 · Mise à jour le Jan 06, 2026

Top 10 Things to Know About Ginger Cats

Genetic traits, freckles, personality... Find out everything about ginger cats and their amazing characteristics. 1/ Their coat color is due to pheomelanin Pheomelanin is one of the two main pigments in biological melanin. It is present in small amounts in all coat types, but in larger quantities in ginger cats. It is this pigment that gives them their red color! 2/ The red hides other colors! In ginger cats, the expression of the orange gene masks the expression of the black gene. Therefore, the shades of red vary depending on the color hidden beneath. For example, an orange coat, known as "red," can hide black or chocolate colors. A cat with a cream-colored (diluted red) coat will likely hide a blue, lilac, or fawn color. 3/ Different types of ginger coats There is a wide variety of ginger coats! By "ginger," we mean the coat can be orange, red, or sandy. While most ginger cats are tabby, some can be bicolored, and others might only have patches of ginger. There is the "mackerel" pattern, which resembles the stripes of a mackerel fish. There is also the marble pattern, which is like a tabby coat but with wider stripes covering the entire body. 4/ There is no exclusively ginger cat breed All cat breeds can have a ginger coat. Ginger fur can appear in purebred cats as well as in domestic cats. Among purebred cats, ginger coats are seen in Maine Coons and Persians. 5/ But only some breeds accept ginger For certain breeds, ginger fur can even be a disqualifying trait for eligibility in the LOOF (French pedigree registry). For example, ginger is "accepted" in Maine Coons, Persians, Norwegian Forest Cats, and British Shorthairs. Gus, the ginger cat from Ziggy Family 6/ A genetic feature Let's simplify it: the "O" gene is directly linked to the ginger color. It is carried by the X chromosome, so it is sex-linked. A male has one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. If his X chromosome carries the O gene (XoY), he will be ginger; otherwise, he will have a different color (XY). A female has two X chromosomes. She will only be ginger if both X chromosomes carry the O gene (XoXo). 7/ Ginger cats are mostly males We know that most tortoiseshell cats are female, but with ginger cats, the opposite is true, with about 80% being males and only 20% females. As explained earlier, for females, both parents determine the coat color, and they must have the O gene twice. That's why females are rarer! 8/ Ginger cats can have freckles Just like humans, our ginger cats can have freckles! They're usually harder to spot but are often visible around the nose, and they are absolutely adorable! Unlike human freckles, those on cats are black. 9/ The most famous cat in the world is ginger Ginger cats inspire! On the movie front, we immediately think of the heroic, fearless, sword-wielding feline from Shrek: Puss in Boots! Undoubtedly the most famous ginger cat worldwide, Puss in Boots captured the hearts of millions of viewers, with his charming boots, hat, and imploring eyes. In late 2022, our beloved ginger hero made his big return to the big screen in a new adventure: Puss in Boots 2 - The Last Wish. In this new film, Puss has discovered that his reckless adventures have cost him eight of his nine lives, and he embarks on the quest of a lifetime to reclaim them with his old companion, Kitty Softpaws. To celebrate Puss's return, Ziggy has partnered with Puss in Boots 2 - The Last Wish to make this Christmas magical and delicious for all our little cats. 10/ Ginger cats have a unique personality (and that's why we love them!) Of course, coat color doesn't determine personality, but ginger cats are often described as a bit jealous. At the same time, they are incredibly affectionate and love to cuddle in your arms! We love them like a true family member, so we make sure to feed them optimally with complete, high-protein cat food! Every cat is unique, and ginger cats bring joy to their families! So, why not consider adopting an adorable ginger cat from a shelter or rescue?

top-cats

Jan 27, 2021 · Mise à jour le Jan 05, 2026

10 Things to Know About the Tortoiseshell Cat

Character, genetic traits, lucky cat... We explain everything about this coat. And feel free to share pictures of your little tortoiseshell cats at the end of this article! #1 The term "Tortoiseshell" refers to a coat, not a breed When we talk about "tortoiseshell," we’re referring to a coat pattern, not a specific cat breed, as some might think. The tortoiseshell pattern consists of a mix of red and its variants (chocolate, cinnamon), and black or another dark color. #2 Several variations The tortoiseshell coat comes in multiple variations and patterns. At first glance, it might even appear nearly uniform. The colors can be distinct or more diluted, and they appear in different patterns: patches, swirls, speckles, etc. #3 It’s different from the Calico coat The Calico cat has a tortoiseshell coat with the addition of white. A unique feature of Calico cats is that no two kittens in the same litter will look alike. #4 "Tortie", "Tabby", "Torbie", what are these? Some tortoiseshell cats have striped areas, making them a torbie: a mix of tortie (the English nickname for tortoiseshell) and tabby, which refers to a striped coat pattern. #5 A chromosome story The tortoiseshell color comes from the fact that one of the two X chromosomes is inactive in a specific region in females. #6 Over 99.9% are female Tortoiseshell cats are typically female! There’s about one male tortoiseshell cat for every 3,000 female tortoiseshell cats. This particular coat is linked to a very rare gene in male cats. The gene for the tortoiseshell coat appears in males only if they have three chromosomes in the combination XXY. #7 Male tortoiseshell cats are sterile Due to the genetic anomaly described above, male tortoiseshell cats are sterile. #8 This makes it a rare coat! Since males are sterile and cannot reproduce with female tortoiseshell cats, this coat pattern is considered rare and somewhat of a genetic coincidence. #9 In Japan, they bring good luck In Japan, tortoiseshell cats are considered to bring good luck. They are even believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits! This coat is locally known as "mi-ke," which means "triple fur." #10 Common misconceptions about their character Unfortunately, tortoiseshell cats have gained a reputation for being temperamental and not getting along with humans or other cats. This misconception likely arises from the fact that tortoiseshell cats are almost exclusively female, and females tend to be more independent than males. At Ziggy, we believe a cat's character depends more on their personality and socialization than on their coat color. In fact, tortoiseshell cat owners describe them as playful, shy, affectionate, and sweet. They are lovable cats that deserve just as much attention as any other feline. We love our tortoiseshell cats as full-fledged family members, so we make sure to provide them with healthy, high-protein cat food. Our meals are made in France and are free from grains, tubers, and legumes, ensuring your cat stays satisfied and healthy.

Mon chat noir a le poil qui roussit, pourquoi ?

nutrition

Feb 10, 2023 · Mise à jour le Jan 08, 2026

My black cat's fur is turning red, why?

Your black cat's fur is turning red , becoming ginger? Is its fur discolored in places? There are several reasons why its coat may change color, starting with its diet.

Back to blog