There are many black cats waiting for their forever homes, largely due to the fact that black cats are often overlooked in shelters. Studies show that black cats are less likely to be adopted than cats with other coat patterns and colors. This is likely because black cats get a bad reputation as being evil, bringing “bad luck,” or being associated with witchcraft.
But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Black cats are cute, affectionate, playful, and excellent companions—just like cats with a brown, orange, tabby, white, or any other coat. Black kittens and cats come in a variety of breeds, each with their own characteristics and personality traits. Here are some common types of black cats.
1. Bombay
Bombay cats are famous for their black coats and golden eyes, making them a popular breed. It’s common to describe Bombay cats as affectionate and playful, making them excellent companion animals. A strong jaw and expressive eyes characterize their round heads. If you are looking for a pet that is both striking and playful, this yellow-eyed black cat makes a fine family pet.
2. American Shorthair
Like Bombays, American Shorthairs have round faces and expressive eyes. But unlike the Bombay (they only have black coats), you can find this breed in many colors and patterns: white, calico, tortoiseshell, tabby, and black American Shorthairs are just some of the options. They are often described as low-maintenance pets because they are easygoing, independent, and friendly.
3. Persian
A Persian cat is well-known for two reasons: their luxurious long and fluffy coat that can be nearly any color, and the breed’s calm and gentle temperament. This fluffy black cat enjoys a peaceful and quiet environment and is often described as a lap cat—but that long fur needs lots of regular grooming to stay tidy.
4. Cornish Rex
Cornish Rex cats have wavy, soft fur that is unique compared to many other breeds. The texture of their fur is often described as velvety. Along with their fur, Cornish Rex cats are known for their large, expressive eyes, which are often gold or green.
5. Devon Rex
With their wavy fur, the Devon Rex looks a lot like the Cornish Rex, but the two are different breeds. The Devon Rex’s face is wider than the slim Cornish Rex’s visage, and their coat is shorter, too. These intelligent cats are outgoing and get along with nearly anyone they meet.
6. Maine Coon
Along with having a thick coat that can come in black, the Maine Coon has other distinct physical characteristics. This black cat breed is often referred to as the gentle giant of the cat world due to their large size—Maine Coons can weigh up to 25 pounds!—and tufted ears. When their fur is black, it adds to their majestic appearance, making them a favorite among cat enthusiasts.
7. British Shorthair
Another black cat breed is the British Shorthair. With their stocky build and round faces, British Shorthairs are known for their robust appearance and dense, soft coat; they are often described as having plush, velvety black fur. British Shorthairs are also known for their large, round eyes, which are often a striking shade of copper or gold.
8. American Bobtail
An American Bobtail cat has a distinctive bobbed tail that’s either straight or slightly curved. The breed is known for intelligence, curiosity, and a high level of adaptability. They are also known for their love of water and their ability to get along with other animals.
9. Manx
Manx are known for having short tails—or even no tail at all—thanks to a genetic mutation. Along with their unique physical appearance, Manx cats are intelligent, playful, and affectionate. The hunting skills of Manx cats are also well known, as is their ability to jump high (thanks to their hind legs, which are longer than their front legs).
10. Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthair cats have dense coats, short tails, and an oval face with large, round eyes that make them stand out. They are calm, affectionate, and easygoing, and they love to cuddle. Exotic Shorthairs love napping and adapt well to different living environments.
11. Siberian
Siberian cats are known for their thick, luxurious coats and bushy tails. They’re also highly skilled hunters and catch prey easily. The Siberian’s personality can vary as vastly as their coat colors: Some are lazy companions that always want to be beside their humans, while others are rambunctious hunters that can be more independent.
12. American Curl
With their name inspired by their uniquely curled ears, American Curls have a silky coat that comes in various colors, including black. These cats are affectionate, and get along well with kids and other pets when properly introduced. Though they love curling up for a nap, they’re also playful and sociable cats that thrive on attention.
13. Japanese Bobtail
Like the Manx and American Bobtail, Japanese Bobtail cats are known for their short tails. Intelligent, playful, and highly social, Japanese Bobtails also get along well with other pets. Climbing is one of their favorite activities, so make sure you have a cat tree or cat shelves so they can explore vertical territory.
14. Scottish Fold
Another breed of black cat is the Scottish Fold, and their fur can come in many different colors. The breed is best known for their unique, folded ears. Like most cats, Scottish Folds also enjoy playing with toys and are naturally curious. They also have a calm and sweet temperament, making them a great fit for families.
15. Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats are known for their thick, long coats and green, gold, or copper eyes. Along with their dashing good looks, Wegies (as they’re often called) love water and are avid climbers. Despite their independent nature, Norwegian Forest Cats are gentle and patient, including with children.
16. LaPerm
The LaPerm has a curly or wavy coat that can be many different colors, including black. No matter the color or texture—some LaPerms have tight curls, while others have looser waves—that unique coat doesn’t require much grooming aside from a bit of brushing. LaPerms are affectionate, playful, and sociable. They enjoy being around people and are often described as doglike in loyalty and devotion.
17. Oriental Shorthair
Oriental Shorthairs have almond-shaped eyes and large ears. They are intelligent, curious, highly social, and love interactive toys and learning tricks. They might be most well-known for their wide range of vocalizations, however, including their iconic “honk.”
18. Selkirk Rex
The Selkirk Rex is another cat breed known for a unique coat—one that can be curly or wavy, long or short—that is always plush. The curls are present from birth and continue to develop as the cat grows older. The coat comes in a variety of colors and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Selkirk Rex cats are laid-back, affectionate, and easygoing.
19. Sphynx
Though Sphynx cats don’t have fur, they still come in different colors, including black. They have a round head with large ears and expressive eyes, and their wrinkled skin is always warm to the touch. Despite their lack of fur, Sphynxes still require regular bathing to keep their skin clean. This extroverted breed enjoys being the center of attention and loves to play with their humans.
20. Ragamuffin
The Ragamuffin is a cat known for their large size and friendly nature. Like most black cat breeds, Ragamuffins come in all sorts of colors and patterns. They are affectionate and gentle cats that love being around people and are often described as the ideal lap cat. Ragamuffins make great pets for those looking for a loving and sociable companion.
Featured Image: Adobe/T.Den_Team
WRITTEN BY
Nicole LaForest, LVT, BSc, MPH
Veterinarian Technician
