These Short-Haired Dogs Make For Low Maintenance Pets

22 Black Cat Breeds You'll Want To Adopt

22 Beautiful Black Cat BreedsReader's Digest

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They're not just for Halloween! Black cats are adorable in all seasons.

AlxeyPnferov/Getty Images Black cats need our help

Did you know that black cat breeds are the most likely to be abandoned, and the least likely to be adopted from shelters? It's sad, but it's true, and there's just no good reason for it. Throughout history, black cats have been saddled with a host of associations, from prosperity and good luck in Egyptian and Celtic folklore, to dark magic and ill fortune in Continental Europe and North America. The early American Pilgrims thought that black cats were witch's familiars, or even that they were demonic! On the other hand, sailors preferred black cat breeds for their ship's cat because they were supposed to bring good luck. But black cats have a lot more to offer than whatever superstition says. The Cat Fanciers' Association recognizes these 22 black cat breeds, each with unique traits and personalities. Some are cuddly, some are quiet, but every black cat deserves to find its fur-ever home. For more on cat breeds, check out these large cat breeds that you'll want to cuddle immediately.

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American Bobtail

This gorgeous black cat breed is strong and intelligent. They are recognizable by their distinctive and expressive bobbed tail, and their love of games. Bobtails are chunky, cuddly, and loyal, and if you're looking for a cat who might like to go on leash walks with you, or that gets along with your dog, the Bobtail is a great choice. Wondering how to persuade your cat to go for walks? Check out this guide to training your cat.

American Curl

The American Curl black cat breed is distinguished by its adorable ears, which curl back at the points giving this kitty a perpetually surprised expression like a miniature lion. Curls are very interested in their people; they will follow you around the house, and even into the bathroom if you let them. Curls are also energetic and whimsical—you might find them in some unexpected places in your home, such as sleeping in the sink or playing with your neckties. Curls will make you laugh, and so will these cat memes.

American Shorthair / American Wirehair

Shorthairs are the original house cat sweethearts, known for their large eyes and ears, slightly flattened faces, and classic curly cat smiles. This black cat breed came to America on the Mayflower, and have lived alongside Americans ever since as both working cats and pets. They are good for families, being mostly even-tempered and relaxed with all ages. The American Wirehair cat breed originated from a genetic mutation of the American Shorthair, so the temperament of these cats are very similar. These cuties are recognizable by their wiry, crimped coats and curly whiskers. The coat can look almost sheep-like, with a woolly appearance. Can you imagine these cutie pies as kittens?

Bombay

This is one of the purest black cat breeds because Bombay cats only come in one color—black! These cats are often called miniature black panthers, or parlor panthers, because of their sleek, shiny, short-haired coats and orange or gold eyes. They have adorable rounded faces and flexible personalities—the Bombay will play fetch with you or relax in your lap as they decide! Meanwhile, you can decide which of these is the best cat name for your new kitten.

British Shorthair

British Shorthairs are one of the oldest black cat breeds. They have been compared to teddy bears due to their sturdy bodies, plush coats, large eyes, and cuddliness. If you think they couldn't be any more adorable, they also have a tendency to purr. They are naturally larger cats and can be clumsy, but they are friendly and relaxed and get on with other animals and most humans. The British Shorthair made our list of cuddliest cats, and so did these other breeds.

DMITRY SEREBRYAKOV/Getty Images Cornish Rex

These slender black cats have curly coats, prominent noses, and huge bat ears, and they are just as agile and kittenish as they look. Their coat has a lamb-like appearance, and in spite of their slim build, they are strong and athletic. Cornish Rex cats are very intelligent and love to play games with their humans. Do you know these common myths about cats?

sarahlouisephotography/Getty Images Devon Rex

With their wrinkled little faces and large ears, Devons look a lot like the hairless Sphynx cat, except with a wavy coat similar to the Cornish Rex. This black cat breed is full of personality and extremely social; Devons are always interested in accompanying you on all of your activities and errands, particularly if they involve food. A talkative breed, Devons don't hesitate to voice their opinions and do best with companions (of any species). Devons are one of the rarest cat breeds—do you know these others?

Hasret Sonmez/Getty Images Exotic

This adorable squishy-faced black cat breed looks a lot like the Persian, but with a shorter and more manageable coat. Known for their sweet personalities and teddy bear appearance, Exotics love to play but are not as dog-like and needy as some other breeds, happy to observe whatever is going on with their usual calm acceptance. They'd probably love it if you read these cat quotes to them.

Japanese Bobtail

These cats can have short or long-haired coats and a variety of colors, but we think the prettiest is the solid black coat! The unique bobbed tail is a dominant gene (although no two tails are ever alike), and this breed is an ancient native Japanese breed, featured in ancient artwork and used to keep rats out of Buddhist temples. Japanese Bobtails are masters of feline agility, very athletic, and talkative. They like to be involved in their owner's lives and may provide a running commentary as they follow you around or help you with your email. They might be telling you to stop doing these things your cat hates.

LaPerm

This cat breed comes in every color and coat pattern, but LaPerm cats have very unusual coats. The kittens are either born hairless or quickly lose all their hair, only to grow in a curly, wavy short or long coat after about four months. A full-coated LaPerm is magnificently fluffy, and their affectionate and loving personalities, soft coat and plumed tail, and ready purr make them a great family cat. If you hate cleaning up after your cat, pick out a self-cleaning litter box that will do it for you.

A.J. CASSAIGNE/Getty Images Maine Coon

Maine Coons are one of the most easily recognizable black cat breeds. Their large size, lengthy fluffy tail, and long, thick fur keep them warm through the freezing winters of the North-East, and their tufted ears and paws allow protect them from the cold and allow them to walk on top of the snow despite their bulk. Native to Maine, the Maine Coon is one of the only cats who truly loves water. They are very affectionate and intelligent and like to hang out with you as you do the dishes (or take a shower!). You better believe the Main Coon made our list of the fluffiest cat breeds.

Manx

This ancient British cat hails from the Isle of Man, where it has been a working cat for centuries. This black cat breed either has no tail or a very stubby one. These cuties have seriously chubby cheeks (it's just fluff, we swear!) and round faces. The Manx is playful and smart and great at jumping and hunting. They have thick double coats, to protect them from the strong island winds, and a protective streak that makes them good for kids. Find out if these cats can see in the dark.

undefined undefined/Getty Images Norwegian Forest Cat

These fluffy beauties are an ancient breed native to Norway, where they served as ratters on Viking longships and are called "skogkatt," which translates to "forest cat." They are best suited for colder climates, as their waterproof insulated double coat has evolved to cope with the harsh Scandinavian winters. They have the same tufted paws and luxurious tail as the Maine Coon, but a shorter, more triangular head and rounder nose set them apart. Similar to the Maine Coon, however, the Norwegian Forest Cat is energetic and affectionate, but a cat tree (the bigger the better) is a must! Next, check out these zodiac signs as cat breeds as well.

Oriental

You might have seen this gorgeous black cat breed on social media (its unusual appearance is often compared to actor Adam Driver). The Oriental's large ears, long face, and prominent nose, along with its long legs and short coat make for a distinctively elegant cat. These clever kittens need a lot of attention and stimulation, and they will let you know (loudly) if they're not getting it. Orientals are very social; their curious natures mean they'll be interested in all your activities. Do you know why cats meow?

Giorgio Cosulich/Getty Images Persian

These flat-nosed fluffballs are one of the most popular black cat breeds. Gentle and affectionate, Persian upkeep is not for the faint of heart—those magnificent coats require regular brushing. Persians are not much given to jumping or acrobatic displays, preferring to lounge in a sunbeam. It's more picturesque! An ancient breed, the exact origins of the Persian cat are lost to history, but hieroglyphic references date back to 1684 B.C. You should know these fascinating cat facts.

Ragamuffin

Ragamuffins are incredibly sweet and loving cats; consistent with the "rag" in their names, they will go limp in your arms with a bit of petting, and will provide lots of love and affection. This beautiful black cat breed has a thick, soft, low-maintenance coat and a calm nature, making them good for families. Enjoying these cute black cats? Make sure to check out these adorable gray cat breeds too.

Sergey Kucherov/Getty Images Scottish Fold

These adorable kitties look like owls! Or maybe teddy bears? The Scottish Fold comes from the barnyards of Scotland and is recognizable by its charmingly folded ears—unlike the American Curl, the Scottish Fold's ears fold down toward the nose. Quiet, loyal, and relaxed, Scottish Folds' big eyes and expressively curly whiskers give them a permanently shocked appearance that does not fit with their sweet personalities. These are the ways your cat shows they love you.

Selkirk Rex

This very curly cat has Persian heritage, which is obvious in his big eyes, flat nose, and round head. One of the cuddliest black cat breeds with their curly coat, Selkirks can look messy at times but shouldn't be brushed too often, or they'll lose those gorgeous curls. They are very easygoing and patient cats, great for families where they can just go with the flow.

slowmotiongli/Getty Images Siberian

This beautiful black cat breed is the fairytale cat of Russia, an ancient native breed with a triple-layered, waterproof coat and long bushy tail to help them survive the Siberian winter. Their beautiful almond-shaped eyes and thick furry neck ruffs make them very appealing cats. Somewhat counterintuitively for such a fluffy cat, they often garner no allergic response from people who are allergic to cats. Siberians are naturally acrobatic and playful and get along well with individuals of all species. Triple-coated Siberians don't need it, but here's how to keep your pets safe this winter.

Alexandra Draghici/Getty Images Sphynx

The distinctive Sphynx is a naturally hairless cat whose color and markings show on its skin. Some say the pink version of this cat looks like a plucked chicken, but we think that the Sphynx black cat breed is adorable! Wrinkly and grumpy-looking, with huge ears and a bat-like appearance, the black Sphynx cat feels like a high-quality suede jacket to touch. Their lack of fur means that they require regular baths, but the upside is that most people will find that they do not disturb any cat allergies. Check out our list of other hypoallergenic cats. Sphynx personalities are affectionate and curious, and they tend to get along well with dogs and other pets. Ever seen a cat with purple hues? Here are some rare cat colors and patterns to check out.

Turkish Angora

Like its Turkish countryman the Angora rabbit, the Turkish Angora has incredibly soft and luxurious fur. This ancient cat breed is recognizable by its small head, thick tail, and elegant shape. They are very sociable and intelligent cats and may play host at your dinner parties, becoming acquainted with each guest in turn. They will happily live with dogs and children, but being quite assertive they may become the alpha in the house! Next, find out which other cat breeds can get along with dogs.

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Microsoft: BlackCat's Sphynx Ransomware Embeds Impacket, RemCom

Microsoft has discovered a new version of the BlackCat ransomware that embeds the Impacket networking framework and the Remcom hacking tool, both enabling spreading laterally across a breached network.

In April, cybersecurity researcher VX-Underground tweeted about a new BlackCat/ALPHV encryptor version called Sphynx.

"We are pleased to inform you that testing of basic features ALPHV/BlackCat 2.0: Sphynx is completed," said the BlackCat operators in a message to their affiliates.

"The code, including encryption, has been completely rewritten from scratch. By default all files are frozen. The main priority of this update was to optimize detection by AV/EDR," further explained the ransomware operations.

Soon after, IBM Security X-Force performed a deep dive into the new BlackCat encryptor, warning that the encryptor evolved into a toolkit.

This was based on strings in the executable that indicated it contained impacket, used for post-exploitation functions such as remote execution and dumping secrets from processes.

The BlackCat Sphynx encryptor

In a series of posts today, the Microsoft's Threat Intelligence team says they have also analyzed the new Sphynx version and found that it used the Impacket framework to spread laterally on compromised networks.

"Microsoft has observed a new version of the BlackCat ransomware being used in recent campaigns," posted Microsoft.

"This version includes the open-source communication framework tool Impacket, which threat actors use to facilitate lateral movement in target environments."

Impacket is described as an open-source collection of Python classes for working with network protocols.

However, it is more commonly used as a post-exploitation toolkit by penetration testers, red teamers, and threat actors to spread laterally on a network, dump credentials from processes, perform NTLM relay attacks, and much more.

Impacket has become very popular among threat actors who breach a device on a network and then use the framework to obtain elevated credentials and gain access to other devices.

According to Microsoft, the BlackCat operation is using the Impacket framework for credential duping and remote service execution to deploy the encryptor across an entire network.

In addition to Impacket, Microsoft says that the encryptor embeds the Remcom hacking tool, which is a small remote shell that allows the encryptor to remotely execute commands on other devices on a network.

In a private Microsoft 365 Defender Threat Analytics advisory seen by BleepingComputer, Microsoft says they saw this new encrypted used by BlackCat affiliate 'Storm-0875' since July 2023.

Microsoft is identifying this new version as BlackCat 3.0, even though, as we previously said, the ransomware operation calls it 'Sphynx' or 'BlackCat/ALPHV 2.0' in communications with affiliates.

An ever-evolving ransomware gang

BlackCat, aka ALPHV, launched its operation in November 2021 and is believed to be a rebrand of the DarkSide/BlackMatter gang, which was responsible for the attack on Colonial Pipeline.

The ransomware gang has always been considered one of the most advanced and top-tier ransomware operations, constantly evolving its operation with new tactics.

For example, as a new extortion tactic last summer, the ransomware gang created a clearweb website dedicated to leaking data for a particular victim, so customers and employees could check if their data was exposed.

More recently, the threat actors created a data leak API, allowing for easier dissemination of stolen data.

With the BlackCat encryptor evolving from a decryptor to a full-fledged post-exploitation toolkit, it allows the ransomware affiliates to more quickly deploy file encryption across the network

As it is vital to detect ransomware attacks as soon as they occur, adding these tools only makes it harder for defenders.

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'Sweetest' Cat Spends All His Time With Sister As He Knows She's Pregnant

In a heartwarming display of sibling bonds, a male sphynx cat has been captured on camera providing tender cuddles to his pregnant sister.

The pregnant cat, named Envy, had been showing signs of nearing motherhood, which seem to have drawn her protective brother, G2, even closer.

Their owner, Shauntay Burris, told Newsweek: "G2 and Envy have always been incredibly close. He seems to sense her early pregnancy and has been much more tender with her. They typically play and wrestle all day long, but now he cuddles her and grooms her, and follows her everywhere she goes."

G2, the Sphynx cat, can be seen wearing a black jumper as he lies next to his pregnant sister Envy. The pair grew even closer when G2 realized Envy was pregnant. G2, the Sphynx cat, can be seen wearing a black jumper as he lies next to his pregnant sister Envy. The pair grew even closer when G2 realized Envy was pregnant. TikTok/scantilycladsphynx

The clip that was shared to a TikTok page dedicated to the feline duo @scantilycladsphynx that shows cats have a very tender side when it comes to pregnancy.

Newsweek reached out to Axel Lagercrantz, CEO at Pets4Homes, the U.K.'s largest pet rehoming site, and he said: "Female cats (also known as queens if they have not been neutered) have strong maternal instincts to care for their offspring, or for other pregnant companions around them. When queens become pregnant, hormonal changes trigger these maternal instincts, making them more nurturing and protective."

Lagercrantz added that pregnant cats may also exhibit a calmer demeanor compared to their usual active and playful behavior due to these hormonal changes.

"Although some queens will crave affection throughout their pregnancy, many may take themselves to a place where they feel comfortable, safe and warm. In addition to this change in behavior, your pregnant cat, in the last two weeks of pregnancy, will need to change their current energetic environment in preparation for the birth, to one softer and calmer. It is important to set up a nice quiet area in the house for your queen so she can build herself a 'nest,' which she will use to rest up in through labor," he told Newsweek.

Unlike humans, cat pregnancies are relatively short and they usually give birth after two months, according to Pet MD. Envy, who is 3, is currently pregnant with her second litter and her doting brother is keen to be with her every step of the way.

Burris, who lives in California, told Newsweek: "Breeding should be for the purpose of preserving and improving a breed. This breed should be heavily screened for genetic heart conditions prevalent in the breed, for multiple generations. And cats should experience sufficient breaks in between litters."

So far, the clip shared on August 6 has more than 5,000 views and G2 has been praised by many.

One user said: "Awww G2 you perfect little man."

Another said: "This is sooo sweet."

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.Com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.

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