[Answer] When is/was National Black Cat Appreciation Day 2018?

Step 1 : Introduction to the question "When is/was National Black Cat Appreciation Day 2018?"

...Positive publicity isn't something black cats generally enjoy very often. But for those wanting to wish their feline black fur babies a happy day, August 17 was National Black Cat Appreciation Day. One of the major activities encouraged on this special black cat day is to visit a local animal shelter and adopt a black cat. It seems the ages-old bad publicity these cats have endured is a hinderance to them when looking for their forever homes. Another favorite activity on this day is to read Edgar Allan Poe's "The Black Cat." Originally published in 1843, this story is one of Poe's darkest tales, dealing with the psychology surrounding guilt. Source: NationalToday.com

[Answer] What country sent the only cat astronaut into space?

Step 1 : Introduction to the question "What country sent the only cat astronaut into space?"

...A black and white former stray became the first cat launched into space in 1963. Named Félicette, she was one of 14 stray cats gathered by the French space program and put through the rigors of training. Ultimately, Félicette was the one chosen to grab a spot in history as the first cat in space. Whether it was her docile personality or the fact she didn't add a lot of weight during her training that clinched the job for her is uncertain. Her mission launched from Algeria and reached nearly 100 miles above Earth. She parachuted safely down. Unfortunately, about three months after her historic trip, the very scientists who sent her into space killed her. They wanted to know if her body suffered ill-effects from space travel. Source: Newsweek.com