Black cats, often shrouded in folklore and superstition, are among the most captivating and elegant felines. Despite unwarranted myths linking them to bad luck, these sleek beauties are just as loving, playful, and diverse as cats of any other color. Sadly, this misconception contributes to a lower adoption rate for black cats in shelters. Studies have highlighted that black cats are, unfortunately, less likely to be adopted compared to their more colorful counterparts. This is often fueled by baseless associations with bad luck, evil omens, or witchcraft, as noted by pet experts.
However, the truth is far from these outdated notions. Black cats are simply cats with stunning ebony coats, and they encompass a wide array of breeds, each with unique personalities and characteristics. Just like cats with tabby, calico, white, or orange fur, black cats make wonderful pets. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Black Cat Species and discover some of the most popular breeds that proudly sport this striking coat.
1. Bombay Cat: The Miniature Panther
A sleek Bombay cat with captivating golden eyes sits amidst vibrant green grass
The Bombay cat is perhaps the quintessential black cat breed. Bred to resemble a miniature black panther, Bombays are renowned for their glossy, jet-black coat and striking golden or copper eyes. Beyond their dramatic appearance, Bombay cats are celebrated for their affectionate and people-oriented nature. They are known to be incredibly friendly and thrive on human companionship, making them ideal family pets. Their distinctive round face, coupled with expressive, luminous eyes and a sturdy build, further enhances their captivating charm. If you’re searching for a devoted and playful companion with a touch of wild elegance, the Bombay black cat species could be your perfect match.
2. American Shorthair: A Versatile Classic
A yellow-eyed black American Shorthair cat relaxes comfortably on a cozy bed
While the American Shorthair is not exclusively a black cat species, they are frequently found with beautiful black coats. Sharing the Bombay’s round face and expressive eyes, the American Shorthair distinguishes itself with a wider range of coat colors and patterns. Beyond black, you can find them in tabby, calico, white, tortoiseshell, and many other variations. Known for their adaptability and easygoing personalities, American Shorthairs are often lauded as low-maintenance pets. They are independent enough to entertain themselves but also enjoy interacting with their families, striking a perfect balance for busy households. Their friendly and robust nature makes the black American Shorthair a consistently popular choice for cat lovers.
3. Persian Cat: Luxurious Elegance in Black
A majestic black Persian cat lounges gracefully on a polished floor
The Persian cat is synonymous with luxury and glamour, and a black coat only amplifies this breed’s inherent elegance. Famous for their long, flowing, and incredibly fluffy fur, Persians can sport nearly any color imaginable, including a striking solid black. Their signature flat face and sweet, gentle temperament further contribute to their allure. Black Persian cats are known for their calm and docile nature, preferring serene and quiet environments. They are often described as the quintessential “lap cat,” relishing cuddles and affection. However, that magnificent long fur requires significant regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles, a commitment worth making for those enchanted by their serene beauty.
4. Cornish Rex: The Velvety Wonder
A side profile of a sleek black Cornish Rex cat gracefully sitting
Cornish Rex cats stand out with their uniquely wavy, soft fur. This distinctive coat, often described as velvety to the touch, sets them apart from other black cat species. Adding to their captivating appearance are their large, expressive eyes, frequently a mesmerizing gold or green, which contrast beautifully with their black fur. Beyond their striking looks, Cornish Rex cats are known for their playful and intelligent personalities. They are active and curious cats, often described as having a kitten-like energy throughout their lives, making them entertaining and engaging companions.
5. Devon Rex: The Pixie Cat
A playful black Devon Rex kitten explores the green grass
Sharing the Cornish Rex’s wavy fur, the Devon Rex also presents a unique and charming appearance in black. While sometimes mistaken for Cornish Rex cats, they are distinct breeds. Devon Rex cats have a wider face and a shorter, suede-like coat. These intelligent cats are known for their outgoing and friendly personalities, readily making friends with humans and other pets alike. Often described as “pixie-like” due to their large ears and mischievous expressions, black Devon Rex cats are affectionate, playful, and always ready for interaction.
6. Maine Coon: The Gentle Giant in Black
A fluffy black Maine Coon cat with striking green eyes gazes intently
The Maine Coon, known as the gentle giant of the cat world, is undeniably majestic in a black coat. Their thick, shaggy fur, which can be black, contributes to their impressive size and robust appearance. Maine Coons can weigh up to 25 pounds and are characterized by their tufted ears and long, bushy tails. The black coat accentuates their wild, rugged beauty, making them a favorite among cat enthusiasts who appreciate a larger, yet gentle, feline companion. Their good-natured and playful personalities further solidify their position as beloved family pets.
7. British Shorthair: The Plush Teddy Bear
A black British Shorthair with captivating golden eyes plays on a cat tree
Another breed that frequently sports a stunning black coat is the British Shorthair. With their stocky build, round faces, and large, round copper or gold eyes, British Shorthairs have a robust and endearing appearance. Their dense, plush coat, often described as velvety, adds to their teddy bear-like charm. Black British Shorthairs are known for their calm and dignified demeanor, making them excellent companions for those seeking a more relaxed and independent cat. They are affectionate but not overly demanding, content with quiet companionship and gentle play.
8. American Bobtail: The Wildly Intelligent Black Cat
The American Bobtail cat, while not solely a black cat species, offers a unique look with a black coat option combined with its distinctive bobbed tail. This breed is recognized for its intelligence, curiosity, and remarkable adaptability. American Bobtails are also known for their affinity for water and their ability to get along harmoniously with other animals, making them versatile and engaging pets for active households.
9. Manx: The Tail-less Wonder
A striking black Manx cat with green eyes sits alertly
Manx cats are famous for their naturally short or completely absent tail, a result of a genetic mutation. This unique physical trait is coupled with a sturdy build and a playful, intelligent personality. Black Manx cats inherit these traits, along with well-known hunting prowess and impressive jumping abilities due to their longer hind legs. They are affectionate and devoted companions, known for forming strong bonds with their families.
10. Exotic Shorthair: The Easygoing Persian Look-alike
A relaxed black Exotic Shorthair cat lies against a soft gray background
Exotic Shorthair cats offer the luxurious look of a Persian but with a low-maintenance short coat, which can be a beautiful solid black. They possess a dense coat, short tail, and a distinctive oval face with large, round, expressive eyes. Black Exotic Shorthairs are known for their calm, gentle, and affectionate nature. They love to be pet and cuddled, adapting well to various living environments thanks to their easygoing temperament.
11. Siberian Cat: The Hypoallergenic Hunter
Siberian cats, with their thick, luxurious, and often black coat, are also known for being potentially hypoallergenic. Their bushy tail and robust build reflect their origins in the harsh Siberian climate. These skilled hunters possess personalities as varied as their coat colors. Some black Siberian cats are laid-back and cuddly, while others are more independent and adventurous, always ready to explore and play.
12. American Curl: The Charming Curled Ears
A fluffy black American Curl cat lounges comfortably
Instantly recognizable by their uniquely curled ears, American Curls also come in a striking black coat. Their silky fur, regardless of color, is another defining characteristic of this breed. Black American Curl cats are known for being affectionate and sociable, getting along well with children and other pets when properly introduced. While they enjoy napping, they are also playful and thrive on attention, making them wonderful family companions.
13. Japanese Bobtail: The Energetic Climber
Like the Manx and American Bobtail, Japanese Bobtail cats are distinguished by their short, pom-pom-like tail. Intelligent, playful, and highly social, black Japanese Bobtails are energetic cats who enjoy climbing and exploring. Providing them with a cat tree or cat shelves is essential to satisfy their active nature. They also get along well with other pets, making them great additions to multi-pet households.
14. Scottish Fold: The Charming Folded Ears
A black Scottish Fold cat with captivating yellow eyes sits on a windowsill
Another captivating black cat species is the Scottish Fold, famed for their unique folded ears, a genetic mutation that gives them an endearing, owl-like appearance. While their fur can be many colors, black Scottish Folds are particularly striking. Like most cats, Scottish Folds enjoy playing with toys and are naturally curious. Their calm and sweet temperament makes them wonderful family pets.
15. Norwegian Forest Cat: The Rugged Climber
A black longhaired Norwegian Forest Cat with green eyes stands in lush green grass
Norwegian Forest Cats, or “Wegies,” are known for their thick, long coats, essential for surviving harsh Scandinavian winters, which can certainly be a deep black. Their green, gold, or copper eyes provide a striking contrast to their dark fur. Beyond their dashing looks, Wegies are known for their love of water and their exceptional climbing abilities, so cat-proofing your house is advisable. Despite their independent nature, black Norwegian Forest Cats are gentle and patient, even with children.
16. LaPerm: The Curly-Coated Charmer
The LaPerm breed is defined by its distinctive curly or wavy coat, which can manifest in various colors, including a sleek black. The curl texture varies, with some having tight ringlets and others looser waves. Surprisingly, this unique coat requires minimal grooming beyond occasional brushing. Black LaPerm cats are affectionate, playful, and sociable, thriving on human interaction. They are often described as dog-like in their loyalty and devotion, making them deeply attached companions.
17. Oriental Shorthair: The Vocal and Curious
A sleek black Oriental Shorthair cat perched gracefully in a tree
Oriental Shorthairs are striking felines with almond-shaped eyes, large ears, and a slender, elegant build. Their short coat can be a dramatic black, further enhancing their sophisticated appearance. Black Oriental Shorthairs are intelligent, curious, and highly social cats who thrive on interaction and mental stimulation. They adore interactive toys and learning tricks. They are also known for their extensive vocalizations, including a distinctive “honk,” ensuring they will always make their presence known.
18. Selkirk Rex: The Plush and Curly
The Selkirk Rex is another Rex breed celebrated for its unique coat, which is always plush and ranges from curly to wavy. This curl is present from birth and becomes more defined as they mature. Their coat, which can be black, requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Black Selkirk Rex cats are known for their laid-back, affectionate, and easygoing personalities, making them adaptable and loving companions.
19. Sphynx: The Hairless Black Beauty
A curious black Sphynx cat gazes at a vase of flowers
Even without fur, Sphynx cats can be black, with their skin exhibiting different pigmentations, including black. Their distinctive wrinkled skin, large ears, and expressive eyes make them truly unique. Despite lacking fur, Sphynx cats still require regular bathing to maintain skin cleanliness. Black Sphynx cats are extroverted and attention-seeking, thriving on interaction and loving to play with their humans.
20. Ragamuffin: The Large and Lovable
The RagaMuffin is a larger cat breed known for its gentle and friendly disposition. Like many other breeds on this list, RagaMuffins come in a variety of colors and patterns, including black. Black RagaMuffins are affectionate and gentle, relishing human company and often described as ideal lap cats. Their loving and sociable nature makes them wonderful companions for individuals and families alike seeking a devoted feline friend.
WRITTEN BY
Nicole Zittritsch, LVT, BSc, MPH
Veterinarian Technician
