Each year, nearly a million black cats are left behind in shelters simply because of the popular belief that they bring bad fortune, which stems from times of witch hysteria when they were burned at the stake alongside their owners.
Today, most people don’t go as far as to burn them, but there is still a certain stigma associated with black cats, as is evident in thekennels of the Pasadena Humane Society and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
“We’ve worked hard to break down superstitions regarding black cats, but it is still difficult to get them adopted,” Vice President of Community Relations Ms. Ricky Whitman said. “In addition to the myths about them being unlucky, people think that black cats are unfriendly, and their dark coats may prevent potential owners from engaging them.”
Contrary to the prevalent American belief that a black cat crossing your path is unlucky, in other countries, including England and Scotland, it is considered to bring luck and prosperity.
Studies have shown that black cats are more resistant to certain diseases than those of other colors, so if you’re looking for a long life span and fewer vet bills, black cats are a good bet. After all, love knows no color.
In an effort to encourage the public to adopt black cats, on the 13th of every month, the PHSSPCA’s adoption fee for any cat with black on them is $13, which includes the spay/neuter surgery, microchip, first set of vaccinations and a health examination at any participating Veterinary Centers of America animal hospital.
Its website includes a directory of adoptable cats, dogs and other animals, including Severus ID#A313478, a two year old black cat.