11 Beautiful Black Cat Breeds That Debunk the Superstition
Black cat breeds are often associated with mystery and magic. Surprisingly to some, black cats are not a single breed, but rather many cat breeds that can have black coats of varying lengths. Despite their undeniable charm, the negative connotations that shroud our noir feline companions come from stories of witches and their familiars—animals who were said to be demons in disguise.
“And because we all know they're intelligent, cats were thought to have meetings of their own and decide what kind of magic to wield,” explains Martha Bayless, PhD, professor and director of folklore and public culture at the University of Oregon College of Arts and Sciences. As time passed, cats transitioned from being associated with malevolent witches to beloved pets. Yet, because of their inky fur, these misjudged felines tend to be overlooked in shelters1.
If you're looking to bring home a black cat, these 11 black cat breeds may not be able to conjure magic, but they’re sure to spark joy.
Breed Characteristics
Every feline breed has its own distinct characteristics when it comes to looks and personality, so black cat breeds can vary in terms of their temperament, grooming needs, and more. Generally, these cats make wonderful family pets who can get along with kids and other pets. Some might even be up for outdoor adventures with their favorite people.
Black cats with long hair might require more extensive grooming than those with short hair, but regularly brushing them is usually enough to keep them smooth and soft, regardless of coat length. When it comes to exercise, giving black cats various toys can help keep them mentally and physically active, and you can also use interactive play sessions to keep them moving.
01 of 11
Bombay
A perfect concoction of spunky and sweet, the Bombay breed is a mix between the black American shorthair and Burmese. Their fur only comes in black, and they always resemble little panthers with bright gold eyes, whereas other black cats may have yellow or green eyes.
These cats have lots of energy and even more character. They're up for almost any activity, as long as their beloved human is there. Bombay cats are not a good fit for a home where they would be left alone all day.
Breed Overview
02 of 11
Maine Coon
Often referred to as the gentle giant of cats, the Maine coon is the largest domestic cat breed, setting records of almost 4 feet in body length, with giant whiskers, paws, and facial features to boot2. Though not an exclusively black cat breed, you can find solid black Maine coons as well as cream, red, blue, tabby, bi-color, and more.
They form strong bonds with their pet parents, says Alejandro Caos, DVM, a veterinarian with The Vets. And despite their size, they love to cuddle and be held—that is if they haven't outgrown your embrace!
Breed Overview
03 of 11
Oriental Shorthair
You won’t find this spunky feline hiding in the shadows. These noir cuties originate from England and have social personalities that go, go, go. Between games of fetch, the Oriental shorthair tends to enjoy cuddling up or simply following their humans from room to room. In addition to black, you’ll find them in stunning lavender, cinnamon, orange, and almost every pattern, too.
Like many Siamese-related breeds, Oriental shorthair cats are known for their chatty nature. Unlike their relatives, these cats have an unusual vocalization that sounds more like a honk than a meow. Their short, sleek fur is easy to care for.
Breed Overview
04 of 11
American Shorthair
Originally kept as mousers aboard ships setting sail for the Americas, the easygoing and sweet-natured personalities of American shorthairs earned these felines a top spot as one of the best cats for families. They come in every color from inky black to chinchilla (white root with dark tips), pure white, blue, cream, and red.
These cats are easy to care for. As long as you provide plenty of toys, a scratching post, and, perhaps, a window perch to chirp at the birds, they’ll entertain themselves if you must leave for the day.
Breed Overview
05 of 11
Persian
Persian cats are regal-looking, smoosh-faced felines that come in a variety of coat colors, including black. They're a showstopper, both literally and figuratively, as they were one of the original breeds at the very first cat show in 18713.
While Persians thrive in the spotlight—likely because they adore being doted on and swooned over—they're also gentle souls who prefer routine and quiet. This makes them better suited for households with older children rather than toddlers or babies. Persians require daily brushing and frequent baths to keep their hair from matting.
Breed Overview
06 of 11
Sphynx
The sphynx charms humans with a nearly nude appearance and friendly demeanor. They have a thin layer of downy fur and their skin is pigmented, so they can come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, including black, tuxedo, and tortoiseshell.
If you find their appearance bewitching—their looks aren't for everyone—you’re sure to love their affinity for curling up with someone warm, including other furry friends. They’re a good choice for those with allergies, but keep in mind that there’s no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic cat.
Breed Overview
07 of 11
Manx
The Manx cat hails from Britain's Isle of Man, a small island in the Irish Sea. Known best by ancient sailors and farmers for their mousing skills, you might know them better by their tail—or a lack thereof.
Their thick, double coats come in all black, but you can also find these sweet-tempered cats in virtually every color and pattern combination. Orange, tabby, and tortoiseshell are the most common. To keep loose hair at bay—and off the couch—brush them daily.
Breed Overview
08 of 11
Japanese Bobtail
Another black cat sporting a short tail, the Japanese bobtail is energetic, playful, and curious, and loves to be the center of attention. In addition to black, they can be solid white, chocolate, blue, bi-color, calico, or, most commonly, white with colored spots.
They’re low-shedding, easy to groom, and super intelligent. They’re native to Japan but lucky for cat lovers, they’ve materialized throughout the U.S. These medium-sized cats can flaunt long or short coats.
Breed Overview
09 of 11
Exotic Shorthair
The exotic shorthair is referred to as the "Lazy Man's Persian,” and for good reason: they offer all of the docile quirks of the Persian without all the hair. In other words, they're fairly low-maintenance cats who only require weekly brushing. The short-haired cat might have an all-black coat, but they’re also found in other colors and patterns, too.
Favorite pastimes of the exotic shorthair tend to be similar to that of the Persian: being lavished in attention and otherwise doted on, gingerly batting at toy mice, and curling up with a beloved family member.
Breed Overview
10 of 11
Siberian
There is no shortage of coat colors for the Siberian—including a luxurious black coat. No matter what color this large kitty comes in, they’ll have three thick coats of fur that were meant for the harsh winters of Siberia.
Siberian cats are more than just their fur, however. They are also intelligent, affectionate, and exceptionally social with humans and other pets alike. To help this active kitty get all the daily exercise they need, consider a cat wheel or indulge in interactive play sessions.
Breed Overview
11 of 11
Devon Rex
For a curly-coated black cat, look no further than the Devon rex (or one of the other handful of rex cat breeds). The Devon rex stands out, however, not just because they can sport a curly black coat, but for their unique alien-like looks and friendly personality.
Their eye-catching fur doesn't need much maintenance, in fact, too much grooming could cause the delicate hairs to break. They also shed minimally, and are considered a hypoallergenic breed.
