Are Black Cats Really “Bad Luck?” Trupanion Data Settles the Debate with a Purr-fect Surprise
New analysis of over 700,000 cat claims shows Bombay cats — an all-black breed — are actually less likely to file a vet claim than the average feline across the U.S.
SEATTLE, WA — October 28, 2025 — Every October, black cats take center stage as the unofficial mascots of spooky season. But are they really as “unlucky” as folklore claims?
To find out, Trupanion, the leading provider of medical insurance for cats and dogs in North America, took a data-driven look at black cats to see how their health stacked up against the average feline.
Turns out, Trupanion-insured Bombay cats — a notorious all-black-coat breed — are approximately 1.7 times less likely to file a vet claim than other Trupanion-insured cats.
“Given it’s both Black Cat Awareness Month and Halloween, we couldn’t resist the chance to debunk one of the oldest myths,” said Amanda Manning, Director of Channel Marketing at Trupanion. “While the numbers are a fun finding, the superstition that black cats are unlucky has detrimental consequences, tragically leading to high euthanasia and low adoption rates for black cats in U.S. shelters. By sharing this data, we hope to finally put the misunderstandings to rest and encourage potential adopters to look past the coat color.”
Adopt a dark-coated companion this fall
To help shine a light on these purr-fectly typical dark-coated companions, Trupanion partnered with shelters across the country to showcase their available black cats.
If you're looking to add a cat to your family, consider adopting one of these furry felines and help break the superstition for good.
Check out adoptable black cats at these partner organizations
Humane Society of Greater Savannah, Savannah, GA
Gamz
“Due to unfortunate circumstances, Gamz along with 5 other cats had to be surrendered. The owners tried to rehome them on their own but had no luck. They reached out to HSGS to get them adopted through us. Gamz is a unique looking boy with a wonky ear, but there’s no cause for concern as it is only a birth defect and does not affect his daily life.” – Humane Society of Greater Savannah Representative
Seattle Humane – Seattle, WA
Yin, 1-year-old
“Yin is looking for her Yang! She’s a sweet, friendly 1-year-old kitty who loves to be the center of attention. Cuddles and pets are some of Yin’s favorite things and she’s not afraid to ask for them! She also loves to play, enjoys a good zoomie session and is always ready for pets or cuddles. Yin is comfortable around people but can be selective around other cats. She is ready to get all kinds of love from a new family.” -Seattle Humane Representative
Chakra, 1-year-old
“Chakra just arrived at Seattle Humane and is ready for his new home. This 1-year-old has been practicing his smoldering stare but when he’s not working on his modeling career, he likes to get in a little playtime or curl up in his cat tree for a nap. Chakra also enjoys snacks (chicken is his favorite flavor!) and little catnip now and then.”-Seattle Humane Representative
Hinsdale Humane Society – Hinsdale, IL
Libby, 4-month-old
“Libby is a very sweet girl who takes a little while to warm up to people. With some baby talk and hand sniffs she’s ready to be your best friend! She adores being pet, and will roll over on her back purring for more. She loves meeting new cats and is friendly with all ages of dogs & cats. She goes crazy for a wand toy and could watch you swipe it around for hours. She is a great kitty and would love to find her forever home.” – Hinsdale Humane Society Representative
Kitty Bungalow – Charm School for Wayward Cats – Los Angeles, CA
Kirby & Lampy, 6-month-olds
“They are just the sweetest boys and have been to so many events with no luck so far. Lampy is a social butterfly who makes friends anywhere he goes. Kirrby is a gentle soul who loves companionship!” – Kitty Bungalow Representative
Cappucino, 4-year-old
“He is so silly and sweet. To know him is to love him!” – Kitty Bungalow Representative
Cat Adoption Team – Sherwood, OR
Baby Spice
“One look and a little sweet talk brings Baby Spice rubbing and rolling for attention. Baby Spice loves wand toys, crunchy treats, and lap naps. Her unique antics are infectious— a truly meow-morable cat. Baby Spice will do best in a home with adults or older teens, no dogs unless very cat-friendly, and ideally with another cat friend.” – Cat Adoption Team Representative
Miss Calle
“Miss Calle is an affectionate and charming kitty. She readily accepts pets and shows her appreciation with purrs and kneading. This curious, fun, and attentive girl is alert and engaging, playful and exciting. She will do best in a quiet home as the only pet because it appears she may react to other cats or dogs. She has a lot of love to give, so if you're looking for an 'only' cat, sweet and friendly Miss Calle may be just the girl for you!” – Cat Adoption Team Representative
Pistachio, 4-month-old
“Don't overlook this adorable 4-month-old house panther! Pistachio may not be the most outgoing kitten— he finds shelter life chaotic and overwhelming. Shy at first, Pistachio is slowly coming out of his shell and will soon be one unforgettable nut. A patient family will be rewarded with love, purrs, and snuggles.” – Cat Adoption Team Representative
Cat House On the Kings - Parliar, CA
Flapjack, five-month-old
“Flapjack is a momma’s boy and one of the most laid-back kittens ever. He does enjoy playing with his siblings, but would prefer to curl up with his mom and watch the chaos from the top level of a cat tree. He has a gentle demeanor and likes light pets. He’s not quite a lap cat but does like sitting next to you and just observing his surroundings. Flapjack would do best in a quiet home with one or two people that he can form a strong bond with. He certainly acts like an old man, but the right person could bring out the kitten in him with plenty of interactive play and treats. Flapjack would also benefit from a household with another cat since he rarely ever does anything alone; whether it’s eating, sleeping, or grooming Flapjack seeks out companionship.” – Cat House On the Kings Representative
Estella, one-year-old
“Don’t let that serious expression fool you—Estella is as sweet as can be. She might look like she’s always deep in thought, but deep down, she’s just a big softie who’s ready to snuggle up and steal your heart. Her quiet demeanor makes her the ideal companion for those who appreciate calm and peaceful moments, but don’t be surprised if she occasionally shows her playful side with a gentle paw swipe or a curious head tilt. If you’re looking for a furry friend who’s as graceful as she is loving, Estella is the purrfect match. She’s ready to be the quiet queen of your castle, bringing a lifetime of sweet, serene moments to her forever home!” – Cat House On the Kings Representative
Jazzy, five-month-old
“This sleek and polished little black classic is five-month-old Jazzy. Her big purr and soft head boops respond instantly to the simplest loving touch. Jazzy is a purrfect example! Her sweetly playful nature and gentle affection make her a shining example of a loving, trusting companion. This black satin doll named Jazzy has abundant joy to share with a protective and adoring forever family. She’s waiting to meet you!” – Cat House On the Kings Representative
To help ensure adoptions last a lifetime, eligible kittens adopted from a Trupanion partner shelter can receive an exclusive Adoption Day Offer: 30 days of full, comprehensive coverage at no up-front cost.
Study Methodology
More than 700,000 cat claims from 2020 through 2024 were analyzed and normalized for growth. Sample size of Bombay cat claims was 868.
About Trupanion
Trupanion is a leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs throughout the United States, Canada, and certain countries in Continental Europe with over 1,000,000 pets currently enrolled. For over two decades, Trupanion has given pet owners peace of mind so they can focus on their pet’s recovery, not financial stress. Trupanion is committed to providing pet parents with the highest value in pet medical insurance with unlimited payouts for the life of their pets. With its patented process, Trupanion is the only North American provider with the technology to pay veterinarians directly in seconds at the time of checkout. Trupanion is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol "TRUP". The company was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Seattle, WA. Trupanion policies are issued, in the United States, by its wholly-owned insurance entity American Pet Insurance Company or ZPIC Insurance Company and, in Canada, by Accelerant Insurance Company of Canada or GPIC Insurance Company. Policies are sold and administered in Canada by Canada Pet Health Insurance Services, Inc. dba Trupanion 309-1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver, BC V7J 0A2 and in the United States by Trupanion Managers USA, Inc. (CA license No. 0G22803, NPN 9588590). Canada Pet Health Insurance Services, Inc. is a registered damage insurance agency and claims adjuster in Quebec #603927. For more information, please visit Trupanion.com