Why India Still Sees Black Cats as Symbols of Misfortune
Tanisha Kumari | Nov 07, 2025, 17:11 IST
Black cats
( Image credit : Freepik )
Here it explores the deep-rooted superstition in India that views black cats as symbols of misfortune. It traces the origins of these beliefs to ancient Indian and colonial influences, examines the negative impact on black cats today including low adoption rates and mistreatment and highlights the changing attitudes in urban India where social media and influencers are helping reshape public perception.
A lot of times, it is seen that people who are rushing to their work and would not stop for anything, could be seen pausing for a black cat who is just crossing a road. This is not because India sees black cats as the main characters but because since a long time ago Indians have seen black cats as symbols of misfortune. So the act of stopping all work when seeing a black cat or completely avoiding an interaction with black cats is another ancient superstition of Indian culture.
Ancient Roots of Superstition
In Indian culture, black cats are associated with witchcraft and bad omen. Some people linked these cats to bad spirits. In old villages and small towns, people still believe that crossing paths with a black cat was a warning to be careful.
It is commonly said that if a cat crosses paths with someone then their journey will bring bad luck unless they turn back or wait a while before proceeding. While these superstitions seem harmless, these passed down beliefs have affected the way people treat black cats especially the stray ones.
Colonial Influence and
Some superstitions that were brought by the British when they came to India like in Europe, people also believed that black cats could bring bad luck especially during Halloween time. Due to which these western myths mixed with Indian beliefs caused people to develop a fear towards black cats.
Movies and stories also showed black cats as scary animals which made Indian people think of black cats as mysterious and unlucky. Even today, some TV shows and books add to this idea.
Due to these superstitions, black cats have suffered a lot of mistreatments. The adoption rates of black cats are the lowest in most shelter homes in India and the euthanasia rates have become higher due to that.
Also, people mistreat the stray cats and especially children tease and hurt these cats without knowing the consequences. This makes life hard for these animals, and it is not their fault.
Sadly, some black cats get hurt because people believe they possess evil magic or are unlucky. Many animal help groups are working hard to protect black cats and bring the truth out for people to break the preconceptions of the people about black cats. They hope more people give these cats a chance and treat them with kindness.
Changing Perceptions in Urban India
People now in this generation think differently about black cats. Some black cats are beautiful and love to have them as pets. Social media shares pictures of happy black cats in homes and gardens. Even famous people are now posting about adopting black cats.
Pet influencers and animal lovers share stories of black cats being playful and friendly. They want to change old beliefs so that black cats get more love and find good families.
In ancient Egypt, black cats were seen as lucky and they even gave gold jewelry to black cats. People believed black cats protect homes from evil spirits and bring good fortune.
People should move past old superstitions about black cats by learning new facts and choosing compassion. India creates a world where black cats feel safe and loved. Every black cat deserves happiness and a loving home.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ancient Roots of Superstition
Superstition
( Image credit : Freepik )
In Indian culture, black cats are associated with witchcraft and bad omen. Some people linked these cats to bad spirits. In old villages and small towns, people still believe that crossing paths with a black cat was a warning to be careful.
It is commonly said that if a cat crosses paths with someone then their journey will bring bad luck unless they turn back or wait a while before proceeding. While these superstitions seem harmless, these passed down beliefs have affected the way people treat black cats especially the stray ones.
Colonial Influence and Western Myths
Western Myths
( Image credit : Pexels )
Some superstitions that were brought by the British when they came to India like in Europe, people also believed that black cats could bring bad luck especially during Halloween time. Due to which these western myths mixed with Indian beliefs caused people to develop a fear towards black cats.
Movies and stories also showed black cats as scary animals which made Indian people think of black cats as mysterious and unlucky. Even today, some TV shows and books add to this idea.
Impacts on Black Cat Today
Also, people mistreat the stray cats and especially children tease and hurt these cats without knowing the consequences. This makes life hard for these animals, and it is not their fault.
Sadly, some black cats get hurt because people believe they possess evil magic or are unlucky. Many animal help groups are working hard to protect black cats and bring the truth out for people to break the preconceptions of the people about black cats. They hope more people give these cats a chance and treat them with kindness.
Changing Perceptions in Urban India
Pet Influencers
( Image credit : Freepik )
People now in this generation think differently about black cats. Some black cats are beautiful and love to have them as pets. Social media shares pictures of happy black cats in homes and gardens. Even famous people are now posting about adopting black cats.
Pet influencers and animal lovers share stories of black cats being playful and friendly. They want to change old beliefs so that black cats get more love and find good families.
In ancient Egypt, black cats were seen as lucky and they even gave gold jewelry to black cats. People believed black cats protect homes from evil spirits and bring good fortune.
People should move past old superstitions about black cats by learning new facts and choosing compassion. India creates a world where black cats feel safe and loved. Every black cat deserves happiness and a loving home.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What happens if a cat cries in Hinduism?
Cat crying means they might hear some bad news from somewhere or it may be a sign that you should not go out anywhere as it indicates misfortune. - Is black cat crossing path considered good somewhere?
In Japan and the UK, a black cat crossing paths brings good luck. - Which color cat is good for home?
Orange cats are perceived as friendly and affectionate while gray cats are seen as calm and gentle so both these cats could be a great option for homes.