Black cats get a bad rap. Today in shelters they sit waiting for a family longer than other cats. In western culture superstition still swirls around them, these are usually associated with Halloween, witchcraft, beliefs left over from Puritan times, and fears of them bringing bad luck to anyone that may cross their path. In Ireland, however, there are much nicer tales of these black beauties.
In Irish folklore there are many stories of cats bringing good fortune to the people that came upon them and treat them kindly. This particular lore is about a black cat that you may spot in the bogs of Lough Neagh. This is a mysterious creature, possibly more of a fairy than feline, known as the Bog Cat. They are said to prowl around the shores of the area, eating whatever is available, such as bugs and small animals. They are cunning and swift, quite large for a cat, and are said to bring great wealth and
happiness to anyone that has the great fortune to run into them.
We could all use a little luck so even if we can’t make it all the way to Ireland, we can show some extra love to our feline friends. When you adopt a cat or kitten, make sure you don’t pass by the black kitties waiting for a home. You never know if they may be your bit of good fortune.
If you are looking to add a new feline family member, check out Black Cat Rescue. They are a local, no-kill shelter that is dedicated to saving the lives of homeless black cats and kittens all throughout Massachusetts. They are also always looking for safe foster homes for these kitties as well. Luna and Nova, featured here, were adopted from Black Cat Rescue!
Black Cat Rescue:
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