At various times, and in different cultures, the cat has been regarded as holy or as a diabolical beast, as a bringer of good fortune or as an omen of evil.

The witchcraft of the Middle Ages turned the black cat into a creature that changed shape and helped perform rituals and spells for the witch. 

If a black cat walks towards you, it brings good fortune, but if it walks away, it takes the good luck with it.

Mothers should always keep cats away from babies because they are said "suck the breath" of the child.