My Journey Adopting a Black Cat

For a long time, black cats have captivated my heart. Here are some stories from my journey of adopting two different black cats, Jet and Chance. I share the reasons for taking in these beautiful creatures and the joys they brought along with them.

Jet: My Gentle Giant

I’ve never owned a black cat, until everyone told me to take the only kitten at the shelter, Jet. Jet was 11 months old when I brought him home. He is the largest and most active cat I’ve ever owned, measuring 33 inches long.

Jet, a gentle giant, is full of energy and likes to hang out in the fenced backyard. He often discovers toys to play with in the bathtub and even finds ways to stuff them down the bathroom sink drain. For naps, he’ll cuddle up next to me, waking me up at 5:30 with his toy on my chest, hoping to engage in play.

The Stray Encounter with Chance

My journey with black cats didn't stop with Jet. A couple of months ago, while feeding my feral colony, a tiny black kitten appeared, starved and thirsty. He was no more than 7 weeks old, and his mother was nowhere to be found. As a storm was brewing, I managed to capture him, bringing him home. Initially, I planned to call my friend who runs a rescue, but she was out of town and needed a temporary home for the kitten.

Within the first night, the kitten, which we named Chance, transformed from a wild beast to a gentle companion. By day 4, he could explore without a second glance, acting as if he had lived there all his life. Chance’s charm was so strong that by the time my friend returned, she couldn't resist keeping him.

From Skepticism to Affection

Before Jet and Chance, I had never bred a black cat simply because I didn’t like the idea of the color alone. My preferences leaned towards the unusual designs, stripes, and spots found on tabbies and calicos. However, my journey taught me that traditional notions about black cats being bad luck were misplaced.

I decided to adopt black cats partially to prove that these stereotypes were unfounded, and also to take advantage of the opportunity. What I was rewarded with was affection, unexplainable love, and a bond that is hard to shake off. They are undoubtedly part of my family, living in my backyard and my home.

Since adopting these black cats, I’ve come to appreciate their unique personalities and the warmth they bring into my life. Whether it’s Jet’s active play or Chance’s sweet purring, they remind me of love and companionship in ways I never imagined.

In closing, I hope this story helps others overcome stereotypes and embrace the wonderful black cats that await them.