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National Black Cat Appreciation Day

Celebrate National Black Cat Appreciation Day by showing your dark furred feline friend some extra love and attention!

Monday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAugust 17

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYCats

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Black Cat Appreciation Day on August 17th by showing your love and appreciation for these amazing animals! This special day was created to recognize the unique beauty of black cats, as well as to raise awareness about how often they are overlooked in shelters. There is a long-standing superstition that black cats bring bad luck, but with this day we can spread the message that all cats deserve respect and admiration regardless of their colour.

TIMELINE

National Black Cat Appreciation Day Timeline

Black Cat Superstitions Begin

Black cats began to be associated with witches and bad luck during the Middle Ages in Europe, a stigma that would persist for centuries.

The Lucky Black Cat

A contrasting belief formed in some cultures, such as Japanese and British, associating black cats with good luck and prosperity.

"The Black Cat" Animation

Disney releases the cartoon "Bold King Cole", featuring a mischievous black cat character named Figaro who would later star in other Disney media.

Black Panther Comic Debut

The first mainstream superhero black cat, the Black Panther, was introduced by Marvel Comics, creating positive representation in media.

National Black Cat Appreciation Day

American cat enthusiast Wayne H. Morris created National Black Cat Appreciation Day to celebrate these oft-maligned felines and raise awareness about their plight in shelters.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Black Cat Appreciation Day

Adopt a black cat

If you are considering adding a furry friend to your family, why not adopt a black cat? With their sleek, glossy coats and beautiful eyes, black cats make wonderful companions.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a shelter

Helping homeless cats is one of the most rewarding ways to celebrate National Black Cat Appreciation Day. Whether you spend time playing with them or help with the cleaning, you’ll be making a big difference in the lives of these animals.

THROW

Throw a black cat party

Invite your friends over for some feline fun! Decorate with black cat themed items and serve up some homemade snacks (like tuna on crackers). You could also play some music and set up a cat toy station.

Share your photos

Show your love for all things black cat by sharing photos of your own kitty on social media. Tag friends and use the hashtag #NationalBlackCatAppreciationDay to spread the word.

DONATE

Donate to a local rescue

Consider donating money or supplies to a local animal rescue that specializes in helping black cats find forever homes. Every little bit helps, so even if it’s just a few dollars, it can go a long way towards saving a life.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Black Cat Appreciation Day

It helps us fight stereotypes

Unfortunately, black cats often get overlooked at shelters due to superstitions or misconceptions people may have about them. By supporting Black Cat Appreciation Day, we can help raise awareness for the plight of these beautiful kitties and challenge long-held stereotypes!

Black cats are regal and majestic

The deep color of a black cat's coat is both sophisticated and mysterious. With their beautiful eyes and luxuriously sleek fur, these felines embody all that is graceful and dignified about the feline species!

Black cats have unique temperament & personalities

No two black cats are quite alike! From outgoing and friendly to independent and aloof, black cats come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments. Embarking on the journey of owning a 'cat from the dark side' can be a truly rewarding experience with surprises around every corner!