Why Are Black Cats So Hard to Get Adopted?

Black cats are often the last choice for people interested in getting a new cat. Some shelters will not even take them since getting them adopted is so difficult. Why are black felines shunned? In the cat world, black is one of the most common colors. Potential owners may want a different look such as various color combinations, stripes or a different solid color.

Some people are superstitious of black cats. A common superstition is that a black feline walking across a human's path brings bad luck. A black kitty can make humans that subscribe to that particular belief very fearful or at least, uneasy. Interestingly, in other places such as the UK, black-coated cats are believed to bring good luck. Also, discovering a white hair on a black feline is considered to be good luck. Since white hairs are common on black animals, there are many chances to find good luck for the owner of a black kitty.

Historically, black cats have often been considered to be harbingers of evil. They were thought to be friends to witches, and witches could supposedly take on the physical form of a cat in order to hide among humans in order to carry out evil deeds.

Potential owners may avoid black felines if they have a a lot of light-colored furniture and carpets or a tendency to wear a lot of light-colored clothing. Unfortunately, black coats shed like any other colored coat, and black hairs do tend to show up more on light colors.

Black kitties have the false reputation of not having good personalities. Since a cat's personality traits are due to environment and genetics and not coat color, black felines have the same range of personalities as other cats. But, stray black cats may be more likely to be targeted for abuse, and abused cats are less likely to make good companions without lots of work on behalf of the owner. This phenomenon may be partially responsible for the belief that black felines are not as friendly as other cats.

Please consider a black cat if you are searching for a new feline friend. Remember that around the month of October, some shelters restrict adoption of black animals due to safety concerns on behalf of the pet and a high rate of returns from people who want to use the cats as Halloween decorations. Plenty of black felines are loving, sweet, and wonderful companions, and one could be the perfect cat for you!

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