During the middle ages cats came to be thought of in quite a negative light by most people. I find it very telling that this period of ignorance and stupidity is linked with a hatred of cats.

Cats, and black cats in particular, became known as a friend to "witches" and the devil. Cats were killed in great numbers by people during this time period. It is thought that this killing of cats was influential in the spreading of the bubonic plague that killed millions of people. The bubonic plague of course was spread by rats. With less cats around the rats were able to run free everywhere.

Cats represent intelligence and curiosity. It is no surprise to me that they would become feared by the stupid and the ignorant.

This is a new little feature I'm trying out where I talk a bit about cat history. Cats have had a very interesting history in their relationship with people.

Labels: cat history