Why Are Black Cats Linked to Halloween? The Spooky History Behind the Superstition
Spoiler: the cats did nothing wrong.
Black cats are linked to Halloween because of old European superstitions that tied them to witches and bad luck. In medieval Europe, black cats were linked to the devil, and by the time of the witch trials, many people believed witches kept black cats as companions or could even turn into them. Those beliefs traveled to America, and black cats became a classic Halloween symbol alongside witches, bats and jack-o'-lanterns.
It started with witches
In medieval and early modern Europe, many people believed witches had animal helpers, sometimes called familiars. Cats, and especially black cats, were often said to be these helpers. Some stories claimed witches could even turn into black cats to sneak around at night.
Since Halloween grew into a night of witches, ghosts and spooky stuff, the black cat came along for the ride. It's basically the witch's plus-one.
Black cats got a bad reputation
For centuries, black cats were linked to bad luck in many parts of Europe, and those ideas came to America with early settlers. That's where the famous superstition comes from: if a black cat crosses your path, bad luck will follow.
Of course, the cat is just trying to get to the other side of the street. Like a chicken, but cooler.
Not everyone thinks they're unlucky
In some places, black cats are lucky. In parts of Britain, a black cat crossing your path is considered good luck, and sailors were said to keep black cats on board for luck.
In Japan, black cats have long been seen as a sign of good fortune too. So it really depends on where you live, and whether you're a cat person.
Black cats today
Today, black cats are mostly a fun Halloween decoration. You'll find them on porches, in cartoons and on every bag of Halloween candy.
Real black cats are just like any other cat: they nap, they knock things off tables and they love a good cardboard box. Many cat lovers even celebrate them with Black Cat Appreciation Day on Aug. 17.
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