Black cats aren’t unlucky – they just need a home

They might have a reputation for being unlucky, but the RSPCA is hoping the fortunes will change for some of the black cats in its care.

Half of those cared for by the charity are either black or monochrome moggies so, to mark National Black Cat Day on Friday, shelters upped their efforts to try to find them loving new homes.

Alice Potter, the RSPCA’s cat welfare expert, said: “Our centres have been getting into the spirit of Halloween in an effort to encourage people to rehome black cats.

“They won’t bring you good luck or bad luck, they are not prone to living with witches or associated with dark magic – these cats just need a loving home.”

The RSPCA has 418 black and black and white cats across its centres – which is 50% of all cats at the national RSPCA.

Staff at Leybourne Animal Centre in Castle Way decorated the cattery in a spectacular spooky theme especially for two black cats, Trick and Magic.

The one-year-olds were brought into Harmsworth Animal Hospital, London, in August as they were part of a colony of cats which had been left to fend for themselves.

Trick had to have his leg amputated due to a severe injury.

Having three legs hasn’t stopped him living his life to the full, playing chase with his friend Magic.

Trick and Magic are both quite timid and need a quiet environment so they can settle, gain confidence and learn to trust people again.

They would need to be the only animals in the home and can live with families, but preferably with children aged 10 or over who understand that the pair may need their space.

To adopt the rescue cats, call RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre on 0300 123 0751.