Black cats, also known as black cats, are a popular and widely loved breed in Vietnam and around the world. Have you fully understood this mysterious breed? Let's explore with the Dog and Cat Blog in the following article.
Origin and Classification of Black Cats
Black cats are known for their jet-black fur. This is caused by a change in pigmentation during genetic inheritance. Currently, there are many legends about this breed. However, most consider them to be incarnations of deities; harming them will bring bad luck, and eating black cat meat makes reincarnation difficult. Wikipedia
Origin
According to folklore, the lynx is a ghostly cat born from the union of a jet-black female cat and a cobra that eats frogs. Thus, people consider the lynx to be a type of black cat. However, there are about four types of lynxes worldwide, and no cats mate with cobras to produce ghost cats (Source: Wikipedia).
Scientifically, the lynx family consists of five main wild cat species:
- Eurasian Lynx
- Canadian Lynx
- Black-eared Lynx
- Iberian Lynx
- Bobcat
The Chinese call black cats "hei mao," but to them, the lynx is a civet belonging to the Civet family (Viverridae).
From a genetic perspective, black cats are not a distinct breed but a way to distinguish them. They can be different breeds as long as they are black. The black color is due to the recessive gene causing melanism in cats. Since the black gene is linked to the X chromosome, both males and females carry this trait. Notably, a pair of black cats can give birth to kittens with different fur colors due to the recessive gene.
Classification of Black Cats
Currently, several black cat breeds are popular and loved, including:
Bombay Black Cat
The Bombay black cat is a crossbreed between the Burmese black cat and the American Shorthair black cat. This breed mainly features characteristics of the Burmese cat, with smooth, glossy black fur resembling a black panther. Additionally, Bombay is a general name for black cats in the Asian cat group.
Devon Rex Black Cat
The Devon Rex breed originated in England, appearing in the 1960s. They have curly fur that looks messy but is soft and smooth, with dark brown eyes that are very attractive. Notably, their whiskers and eyebrows are wavy like the fur on their bodies.
Japanese Bobtail
The Japanese Bobtail is considered an old and popular breed. Their existence is recorded in historical folklore about Bobtail cats, which are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Why are Black Cats Seen as Symbols of Bad Luck?
In Western culture, black cats are often seen as symbols of bad luck. In Europe (13th century), black cats were considered the embodiment of Satan. Fear spread everywhere, even across the Atlantic. In medieval times, European witches kept black cats as pets and used them in magical rituals to increase effectiveness.
Black cats were also blamed for spreading diseases harmful to humans. As a result, during the medieval period, they were hunted, killed, or burned alive. Until the early 18th century, a black cat with a white spot on its body was considered to have "the finger of God" and was spared from tragedy.
Outstanding Features of Black Cats
Appearance
When mentioning black cats, everyone knows they have jet-black fur from head to toe. On average, this breed weighs about 3.5 to 5 kg. Generally, black cats have a well-balanced, agile body. They have small heads with erect ears. Most have large, round green eyes, which can change color over time. Thanks to their long, slim legs, they are very agile and excellent climbers and mousers.
Personality
Although black cats may appear fierce and aggressive, they become gentle and affectionate when their owners care for and pet them. Especially when you stroke their neck fur, they will immediately snuggle into your hand or leg, showing affection.
Lifespan
Research shows that the average lifespan of cats is about 13-17 years, with an average of 15 years. If black cats live in a comfortable environment with proper care, their lifespan can extend even further.
How to Care for Black Cats
Nutrition
Cats are carnivores, so ensure they regularly receive animal protein. Remember, cats cannot thrive on a vegetarian diet, as it can reduce their nutrition and immune resistance.
Reproductive Care
Reproductive care for black cats is crucial. During this period, they need extra nutrition and special attention from their owners. Provide a warm nest made of a cardboard box lined with soft, warm fabric before the mother cat gives birth. Place the nest in a secluded area with little human interaction.
Common Diseases
Black cats have relatively stable health and adapt well to the Vietnamese climate. However, be aware of common diseases like fungal infections, fleas, worms, feline panleukopenia, diarrhea, peritonitis, and hair loss. To prevent diseases, vaccinate them and keep them clean regularly.
Training Black Cats
Despite their mysterious "black coat," black cats are actually very gentle, obedient, and affectionate. Compared to other foreign cat breeds, black cats are much gentler. Therefore, training black cats is relatively simple. Create a playful environment for them, pet them when they do well, and talk to them often to build a friendly relationship between "servant" and "boss."
Is Keeping Black Cats Good or Bad?
Many people wonder whether keeping black cats is good or bad. In reality, it depends on various factors, from personal beliefs to regional culture.
This article from the Dog and Cat Blog has helped you understand the characteristics of black cats. Hopefully, it will be useful to you. Don't forget to visit the website for more updates.