What gives black cats their bad name?

By Amy Clarkson amy-clarkson

There are approximately 8.5 million cats in the UK at this moment of time; not surprising when they are the most popular domesticated animal in the entire world – this year, however, our branch this year reached a new high in the “Cat Crisis”.

In our branch at the moment, we have over 40 cats who are looking for homes, and sadly, 50% of these cats are all black, or black and white. These are the cats who tend to suffer the most. Black cats are often seen to be less desirable than other cats, perceived to be “unlucky” by some people, and at times, are often described as “ugly”.

If you are reading this and are in agreement with those statements, think of how beautiful black cats can be too – they are certainly the most majestic, and also most magical looking cats around, and on top of that, they all seem to have brilliant personalities. I have two of my own, and they are genuinely the most stunning, crazy and comical cats I have ever known – I wouldn’t be without them!

One of the beautiful black cats in our care is at the moment is Sookie. Sookie is a gorgeous black cat who came into care as a very timid mummy to three kittens in May. Sadly for Sookie, she was left behind still waiting for her forever home when her babies were all rehomed. Sookie is only a young cat and has her whole life ahead of her – but she has been born with the one thing that will go against her in life – a black coat.

Another of our beautiful black coats is Dexter; an older cat brought into care after being found as a poorly stray on the streets. We cannot understand why this boy was wandering the streets – and can only assume it is for the same reason why he is still waiting for his forever home. Dexter recovered amazingly well, and his personality is shining through. He is extremely affectionate and loving (constantly demanding attention!) – and very talkative! Dexter’s only “wish” is to be rehomed by a family who will love him unconditionally and be able to give him the attention that he so deserves – with or without other cats!

This Halloween, look past the colour of the coat of these “witches’ cats” and you will see there is so much more than meets the eye. Sookie and Dexter are only two of the black cats in our care at the moment; if you are looking for a cat at this moment in time, please consider one of our beautiful “witches’ cats”.

Sookie and Dexter are both being cared for by foster mum, Moira, who can be contacted on 01522 884142.

This Halloween, the RSPCA Lincolnshire Mid and Lincoln branch is holding the Black Cat Disco to raise funds for the animals in our care, and awareness for all the black cats who need homes. Will you join us?

It will be held on November 1, 2014 at 7.30pm in St Peter and St Paul’s Parish Centre, Skellingthorpe Road, Lincoln. There is a bar available for you to buy drinks and buffet, with music provided by Supernova Disco. Tickets are £6 for adults or £3 for children in advance, or to pay on the night £7 for adults and £4 for children. Fancy dress is encouraged but by no means compulsory! We do hope you can make it! Contact me on [email protected] to book.

Amy Clarkson is an animal lover and the Chair to Fundraising Team at the RSPCA Lincolnshire Mid & Lincoln Branch.