Muhammad Taha
3 min readAug 24, 2023

Black Cats Are Not Bad Luck: A Tale of Love and Loss

A Photo of Blackie dated March 17, 2023

In a world that often embraces superstitions and old beliefs, I stand firm in my conviction that black cats are not carriers of misfortune. My own personal journey with a black cat named Blackie has solidified this belief, reminding me that appearances can be deceiving and that love knows no color.

I remember the day I adopted blackie, a decision driven more by compassion than preference. At first, I admit I wasn’t particularly drawn to him, lost in a sea of biases and misconceptions. However, life has a way of surprising us, and in no time, this feline friend had woven his way into my heart.

As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, my bond with my ebony companion grew stronger. He wasn't just a pet; he was family. His playful antics and the warmth he exuded started to dismantle the preconceived notions I had held. He taught me that love is colorblind, and that the joy he brought into my life was far more valuable than any superstition.

Tragically, fate had other plans. An ill-fated encounter with a negligent veterinarian in Dera Ghazi Khan led to his untimely demise. The mishandling of his case, as maggots infested his right front leg, resulted in toxic repercussions that snatched him away from me. It was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of responsible care.

My cat's presence had always been a source of comfort, especially during my times away at the university hostel. He felt the absence deeply, a reflection of the connection we shared. His moods mirrored my own, embodying the essence of companionship. His elation upon my return was a testament to the purity of his love, untainted by worldly judgments.

He was a wanderer at heart, unconfined by boundaries. His adventures outside, spanning days on end, spoke to his spirit of exploration and independence. Like a wise wanderer, he always returned, a little wiser and a little more experienced.

As I reflect on his life, his loss is a constant reminder of the irreplaceable bond we shared. Regret fills my heart when I think about the times I might have fallen short in providing the care and attention he deserved. Yet, in his absence, I've learned that love transcends shortcomings and regrets.

So, I stand here today, advocating for the innocence of black cats and vehemently opposing the notion of them being harbingers of misfortune. My journey with my blackie has shown me that they are capable of an immeasurable amount of love and devotion, regardless of the color of their fur. In the words of Anatole France, "Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened." My blackie, in his brief yet impactful presence, awakened a part of my soul that will forever remain illuminated by his memory.

Muhammad Taha

Veterinarian dedicated to feline welfare and animal rights, striving to promote compassionate care and advocacy.