Still believe black cats are bad luck? Let’s bust that myth. Here’s why coat color bias is real, and how you can help change the future for thousands of black cats in shelters.
They’re sleek. They’re elegant. They’re misunderstood.
Despite being just as affectionate, playful, and loving as other cats, black cats face the lowest adoption rates and the highest euthanasia rates in shelters across North America. And it’s not because of their behavior, it’s because of outdated myths and color bias.
At Moricat, we believe that love knows no color. If you're thinking about adopting, here's what you need to know about “black cat bias” and why it’s time we leave those old superstitions in the past.
In one of the largest studies on shelter cat outcomes, researchers analyzed data from over 8,000 cats in an urban U.S. shelter. They found that:
Black cats had the highest euthanasia rates
White cats were adopted the fastest
Brown, gray, and orange cats fell somewhere in between
Even when controlling for breed and stray status, coat color still had a noticeable impact on adoption outcomes.
You may have heard that shelters won’t adopt out black cats in October due to superstition or fear of harm. But another part of the study looked into this theory and found:
No spike in black cat adoptions during Halloween
No increase in harm to adopted black cats during spooky season
So not only is the “danger” to black cats overblown—it’s not helping their adoption chances either.
Some reasons why people overlook black cats:
Outdated myths about bad luck
They’re harder to photograph for social media
Their features don’t stand out in dim shelter lighting
People perceive them as “less expressive” compared to lighter-colored cats
But none of these reasons are valid when it comes to personality or adoptability.
Fun fact: Many black cats are among the most affectionate, loyal companions around.
Another fascinating study explored how photos vs. videos affect perceived adoptability.
Videos made cats seem more playful, curious, and active
Photos made them seem shy, quiet, or reserved
For black cats, this matters more than ever. A flat, dark photo might not show their personality, but a video can.
Research Insight: Even small upgrades in how black cats are presented (like better lighting or playful videos) can lead to more adoptions.
If you’re an adopter, here’s how to make a difference:
1. Don’t let superstition decide.
Personality matters more than color. Black cats can be just as affectionate, silly, or cuddly as any other.
2. Ask about behavior, not looks.
Talk to shelter staff about the cat’s habits, energy level, and temperament. Coat color has zero impact on these traits.
3. Be a voice for the overlooked.
If you’re not adopting today, you can still help. Share adoptable black cats on social media. Volunteer at shelters. Talk about the bias with others.
Take this story from a Moricat customer, Mia:
“I almost walked past Salem, a black cat curled up in the corner of his kennel. But I gave him a second look, and now he’s my shadow. He follows me everywhere. He’s the most affectionate cat I’ve ever had.”
Stories like this happen every day. And the more we challenge old myths, the more happy endings we’ll see.
Black cats have waited long enough. They’ve been passed over for photos that didn’t pop, for myths that don’t hold up, and for colors that felt more “Instagrammable.”
But when you look past the fur and into their eyes, you’ll see what matters most: a heart ready to love you.
At Moricat, we celebrate every adoption, but especially the ones that give overlooked cats a second chance. That’s why our collars, beds, and toys are made with love, for every shade of cat.
Writen by: Moodra
Designed by: Lexin Yuan
