RSPCA: Black cats hope luck will be on their side this Halloween

Wednesday, 28 October 2009 12:00 AM

The RSPCA is calling on cat lovers to get into the spirit of the season this Halloween and take home a black cat.

Rescue centres throughout England and Wales are currently inundated with animals looking to make a fresh start but many shelter staff are puzzled as to why black cats are taking longer to rehome than any others.

Superstition claims that black cats are unlucky and are commonly associated with witchcraft and the RSPCA is concerned this is having an unfortunate impact on the situation.

Today, some people believe that it is bad luck for a black cat to cross your path. But other people think that black cats are a good luck charm and the RSPCA is hoping this positive view will work in the cat's favour.

The RSPCA is urging people to consider getting a cat from a rescue centre rather than via an advert in a newspaper or a pet shop.

For an adoption fee your pet will have a full veterinary check, worming, flea treatments and any required vaccinations as well as being neutered and microchipped.

Southall centre manager Beverly Leavy said: "Unfortunately, black cats often do spend longer in our rehoming centres than others as they are frequently overlooked by potential owners.

"Their fur colour makes no difference to how much love they have to give and their ability to make a welcome addition to any family. The cats are ready to make wonderful pets and we would love to hear from anyone who is willing to give them a new life."

Sadly at this time of year the RSPCA is also bracing itself for a surge in the number of calls reporting cases of deliberate cruelty against black cats.

During Halloween season, the RSPCA takes around 50 calls reporting such incidents where black cats have been intentionally injured or targeted in attacks.

The Society is reminding members of the public that, under the Animal Welfare Act, those causing unnecessary suffering to animals face a £20,000 fine and/or up to six months in prison.

If you think you can help, here are just some of the black cats looking for new homes.

Sadie came into RSPCA care after she was dumped in a box outside the Southall Cattery in Middlesex. The five-year-old has beautiful green eyes and will make an excellent family pet. She adores being regularly groomed to keep her long hair in perfect condition.

Ebony came into the Stourbridge and District branch of the RSPCA when her owners could no longer look after her. She loves playing and being cuddled and tickled. She will reward you with a loud purr when she is happy.

Jenson and his two identical brothers Jeremy and Casper are around five months old and currently living in Wimblington, Cambridgeshire. They came into RSPCA care as tiny youngsters after being born on a farm. They would be ideally suited in a family home without other cats and we would love to see them be rehomed together.

Mona came into RSPCA care at the Walsall branch after being found by a member of the public in their garden. She is around eight years old and very used to being outdoors so a new home with lots of space to play in would be perfect for her.

To find out if there is a black cat near you wanting a new home, log onto the RSPCA website

Notes

RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS
Press office direct lines: 0300 123 0244/0288 Fax: 0303 123 0099
Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) Tel 08448 222888 and ask for pager number 828825
Email: press office

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