The REAL Scary Truth about Black Cats

Wednesday, October 24, 2012 - 11:15am
Black Cat

Have you heard the myth that black cats are unsafe in October, in part because witches may try to adopt them for rituals? We sure have. But guess what? Top ASPCA experts agree that it’s just not true.

Unfortunately, the truth is kinda scary, too: Year-round, black cats are the least likely to get adopted in shelters across the U.S. In fact, black animals in general take more time to find homes, says Gail Buchwald, Senior Vice President of the Adoption Center.

At the ASPCA, we LOVE black kitties. (Some of our friendliest cats, like Marissa, are black—yet Marissa has waited more than nine months to find a family. What’s up with that?)

Aside from the most important reason to adopt black kitties—that they really need extra help finding homes—here are a few reasons to take home one or two:

  • Their fur won’t show on your little black dress.
  • You can tell your kids you adopted a mini panther.
  • Black cats go with everything.
  • In most cultures, black cats are a sign of good luck.
  • You already know black cats are awesome—you have one at home! If you’ve got a great black kitty, tell us about him or her in the comments. You just might persuade someone else to give these felines a little extra attention.
Tags: 
Adoption

Comments

Thu, 10/25/2012 - 09:17 — felicia hernandez (Visitor)
black cats are very loving! my grandmother has one she loves to be scratched behind the ears! she is also very spoiled. we foumd her one the street and she just followed us home. after that day shes been our family pet(: she also recently had kittens! i also had a question. there is a baby kitten under my home, i feed him dog food and he eats it also things like balony and any meat i have, but i wanted to know is that healthy for him? he is a lil big but still a baby his mother was ran over and they didnt even stop! he cries and is very traumatized by vehicles do you suggest anything?

Thu, 10/25/2012 - 17:15 — Pamela Drennen (Visitor)
Felicia - Thank you for feeding the kitten. Where do you live? I can try to help with him. Since he is a kitten, he probably needs kitten food. He needs a home and someone to help him get over his trauma. Email me or call me back. Thank you, Pamela

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 11:13 — Sheryl (Visitor)
Perhaps your grandmother's cat would adopt the homeless kitten that's under your home. The poor baby needs a mama and some mama's milk. If not, is there a shelter near you that you could take it to? Some shelters have people who will "foster" the kitten until it's ready for adoption. Good luck to you!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 11:45 — Janet E (Visitor)
My first kitty was black w/little white sox named Sinner & she was a lover and lively little thing. She live a long happy 14 years. Then my daughter brought home a stray that was pregnant and gave birth to 4 kittens one of which I still have. Jet black Bubba who is now 13 years old and my sweet constant companion. He's the king and loves to strut through the house making sure everyone notices him and he sleeps at my feet at nite. He is also a special needs kitty, he suffered from bladder crystals but as long as he gets his special food he does beautifully. Black kitties are as sweet and loving as any other! Never judge by the color of the fur!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 13:06 — chris (Visitor)
Felicis. Not sure why no one told you but you should get your cat fixed. There are so many cats and not enough homes. Join a resue and foster kittens if you want but please don't let your cat breed.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 02:09 — Angel (Visitor)
Not until she's finished nursing. You don't want to take Mama cat away from her kittens. Yes the cat should be spayed. But at the moment, it's a bit too late to prevent the litter she just had and too early to spay until she is DONE nursing. I hope this kid contacted the person who said they'd help or someone nearby. Don't know where she/he lives, but winter's coming in my neck of the woods and that poor baby will suffer even more trauma as it gets cold. My heart is breaking for this little guy. He must be so scared, confused and lonely. The kitten should be checked by a vet. He's probably a feral or stray. And if he's carrying something and is sick, you don't want to expose mama cat and her babies to whatever the outside kitten might have. But if you take it to a vet, the staff will make sure it gets proper nourishment. Please don't let that little guy suffer outside anymore. Now that you've been feeding him, you should be able to lure him from under the porch and have an adult help you get him in a kitty carrier.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 18:35 — Elaine K (Visitor)
If you can take this kitten to the veterinarian to check him/her out for illness, etc., your vet may be able to give you a discount or keep the kitten and find him/her a good home. My veterinarian has done this - he has also given me kittens who needed a good home! But, the bottom line is, this fur-baby needs a home and family. Thank you for helping give this innocent a chance at life.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 15:05 — Beep (Visitor)
Dog food does not meet the nutritional needs of a cat, so you should stop feeding the kitten it. It needs food that has meet as the primary source, since cats are unable to get the nutrition they need from vegetables. They also need taurine because they are unable to produce it themselves. Taurine is added to cat food, it is not in dog food, or human food.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 02:17 — Angel (Visitor)
I'm not trying to be mean or a troll here. I am genuinely trying to help. And if the person who wrote the original message about the kiten under the porch is a kid, which I suspect, s/he may or may not understand what taurine is, or any other ingredient in pet food for that matter. The bottom line is that the kitten needs to come out from under that porch and be taken to a vet. He/She will die out there if this is an area that is headed for winter. And even if it's not, the kitten could be in danger of being attacked by whatever wild animals are in the area. And under a porch is no place for a cat to live out an existence. He deserves a chance at a happy and content life. Please get that kitten under the porch to the vet.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 15:06 — Berna (Visitor)
If you really love your family pet, and other cats, PLEASE SPAY & NEUTER all of your pets! So many millions of cats (and dogs) are euthanized every year in U.S. shelters because there are WAY too many animals and not enough homes or people to adopt or take care of them. Please be a responsible pet owner and SPAY or NEUTER. THere are many low-cost spay/neuter facilites all over the U.S. I am sure that a local vet, animal shelter, or animal rescue group could help you find one.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 22:48 — Patti (Visitor)
While it is great that you are trying to help this poor kitten, dog food does not have the protein levels that cats need to grow nor does it have the taurine levels necessary for proper eye and heart development.

Sun, 10/28/2012 - 12:37 — Kelly (Visitor)
You mean to tell me you are so dumb that you do not know what to do or who to go to? You can't take him to the shelter? There is shelters and organizations that will trap the kitten (if he is feral) and take him to a safe place. YOU DON"T FEED HIM BALONEY! That is what is wrong with people today.

Tue, 10/30/2012 - 15:24 — Cathie Carroll (Visitor)
Hi Felicia, first I want to thank you & your grandmother for taking such good care of your black cat and welcoming her into your home. Second, I would like to encourage you to PLEASE get her spayed as soon as her kittens. There are SO many kitties and dogs that need homes and we should not be adding to the problem of not enough homes. About the kitten under your house, cats are really not supposed to eat dog food, but if they're hungry, they'll eat anything. Hopefully, you can get some cat food for it. If you can get hold of it or if it is kind of tame, it might be possible that your black mama kitty will let it nurse with her kittens. Thank you again for helping God's precious creatures!

Thu, 10/25/2012 - 17:25 — Sarah S (Visitor)
I went to the shelter looking for a pair of kitties to bring home. I wasn’t looking for a black cat because I was concerned kids might be mean to it. Well the gals at the shelter told me about a boy that was super sweet and wanted to go home with a friend. Did I mention that I didn’t want a long hair either? Well they bring in this little boy and not only is he black but he has long hair and a tail that flops over his back like a squirrel! And he’s beautiful. His name is Mr. Burns and he’s very mischievous. Never leave small things lying within his reach because he will steal them. He once tried to steal a fork but chap stick is his favorite. There’s always something new with him. I’m so glad I brought home my little, fat black cat and his torti sister Gracie Lou. They bring a lot of joy to my life.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 11:17 — kimberly (Visitor)
i know you can write how you want to write when you are decribing this cat, but when i read it,at first i though you were talking about a real live black boy and how you didnt want him because he was black and had long hair, i though to my self, WOW!! really, how racist is this,i had to go back and read it agian, but still it didn't sound to good to me, i would have choosen better words like, male blk kitten with long hair, somthing of that nature, i thought the girl at the shelter was getting ready to tell you about a little boyand his friend and a black cat, this threw me for a loop, i thought how could the ASPCA condone such racsisum, when you first read your comment on your new found pet it can be misconstrude at first, but now i understand it, whew!! im glad you found some wonderful pets, be blessed

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 13:08 — Nonya Bidness (Visitor)
What's wrong with you? We're reading cat stories... why in the world would she be talking about a child? IS this even a real post? I had a hard time reading your post too. I would have chosen better words, you know, words that you can actually spell.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 22:34 — Christel (Visitor)
Thank you. My thoughts exactly! He needs to lighten up and quit being so judgmental.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 02:20 — Angel (Visitor)
What's wrong with you? I was referring to the person who wrote the post about a kitten under a porch. The story s/he told and the way it was written "sounded" like a kid writing it. I was responding and giving advice about a kitten.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 02:22 — Angel (Visitor)
Sorry. I jumped to a conclusion here without seeing who you were replying to. Sorry.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 11:36 — lisa kennedy-cox (Visitor)
Nonya...seriously...good one:) These are stories about C-A-T-S.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 01:34 — Marlene (Visitor)
Your literacy, comprehension skills, and how much of your mind has been affected by PolCorr viral invasion. ASPCA... American Society Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. AKA; The Animal Shelter. You really owe the ASPCA an apology.

Sun, 10/28/2012 - 15:37 — Deborah (Visitor)
I'm replying to your comment, because reading that story i also thought she was talking about a real person. i totally agree with you. that statement was very poorly written

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 14:38 — cindy (Visitor)
Beautiful story! Thanks for sharing! I rescue in pairs too, I find it more comforting for my family and for the pets' family bonds since they're so important in the kitty world. I have three rescues of my own & I love them to pieces! Thanks for rescuing them - they will pay you with endless love, laugh and loyalty, like kitties do ;)

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Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:07 — Bob (Visitor)
I've had a couple black cats. There's nothing to the myth.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:40 — Debbie Birch (Visitor)
We actually adopted our little black cat Spooky about a year ago, close to Halloween, thus the name. He has become a very important family member to us and has the best personality and is so loving. We have a mini schnauzer who hates all cats, other than Spooky, they have become playmates. Spooky isn't a lap cat but loves to sleep with us and loves his ears scratched and really communicates with us if he is hungry or wants to go out and play.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:42 — Shahada (Visitor)
I love black cats! My kitty, Silo, is the most loving, sweet guy and full of personality. He is a great family member. Plus, he goes with everything, super chic. Meow, darling! Like a little black dress, every lady should have one:)

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:45 — Alex (Visitor)
Many years ago i found a stray black cat who let me carry him, he even licked my chin! He was the sweetest little cat. Now there is a black female cat that decided to make our street her home, she runs away from kids but loves approachable peopld. She has long legs a long tail and actually looks like a mini panther, she is very healthy and Extremely sweet and loving. In short, black cats are really kind and should be adopted like any other colored animals

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:46 — Lititia (Visitor)
I had a black kitten; she was the baby to my torti, Mina. She would lick my thumb when she was a tiny little baby and when she was 4 months old, she would raise her "arms" up and put them on my shoulders, like a baby asking to be picked up. If I ignored her, she jumped onto my back at first opportunity. Her name was Twilight, and she was my very heart and soul. She was killed by a neighborhood bully one day while she was lounging on the porch. I still love and miss her. I am a sucker for black cats, but Twilight made my heart jump and skip beats.

Sat, 10/27/2012 - 01:41 — Marlene (Visitor)
from an animal-friendly house that has the Canadian SPCA, and then the outside-Canada rlated charities as it's Preferred charities. That's right, animal charities are First here. As I said, please accept our sincerest and most heartfelt condolences & sympathies on the loss of your black-furred companion. ~Marlene~

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:46 — Kay Keller (Visitor)
I have several black cats. They are just as sweet and playful as can be, and very intelligent. Mine are very well-behaved. One sleeps on the bed with me, right beside me, and muffs me and gives me kitty kisses. Mine are long and short hair and I seldom see any black cat hairs on furniture, carpet, or my clothes.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:46 — cathy (Visitor)
i have a black named jenny. found her when 3 wks 8 ounces w 2 worms now is 5 yrs old she has her own personalty i wouldnt change her OR GIVE HER UP. LOVE HER VERY LOVABLE

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:46 — Teresa (Visitor)
We had a black cat for 14 years. He was awesome! Friendly with everyone. Had a great personality. He wore his emotions outwardly. When he had an attitude - he showed it. When he was playful - there was no stopping him. Funniest cat we ever owned! Loved him - Miss him!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:48 — Dr. Tyler Sergent (Visitor)
I rescued my two black kitties from a feral litter I found near my house (I rescued all of them, but only two were black). They're both all black with yellow eyes. Bosco is a very large, long-haired cat who is so sweet but is sometimes afraid of his own shadow. Matewan is large (i.e., pudgy) medium-haired cat who is both thoughtful and very sweet. They're both 10 years old now, happy and healthy and safe.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:48 — Christie (Visitor)
I have 2 cats, Zhack and Zhoe and a dog named Koko, all adopted.A few years ago, I adopted my little Zhack for the very reason it was the week before Halloween and I knew no one would adopt him and I was afraid he would get hurt. He was the only black cat and not the pretiest of the bunch I had to chose from but nevertheless I wanted to protect him. He has repaid me back exponentially, as he is the sweetest, warmest, most loving cat I have ever had. So please adopt black cats, their fur is so shiny and their eyes are beautiful!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:48 — Jessica (Visitor)
I adopted my black Bombay from the ASPCA in October 2009, and let me tell you that it was the best decision of my life!! I have never had such a strong connection with a pet. He has a "dog-like" personality where he plays fetch for hours and even sits on command!! He cuddles with every person that comes into my house and changes the minds of every person that was once weary about cats. I love my Dexter Halloween so much! Save the black kitties!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:48 — Sandra (Visitor)
After a feral mama had 4 gorgeous kittens under the porch of a Victorian home where I rent the entire upstairs, we had 3 beautiful shiny black babies and a gray. I found homes for 2 of the black kittens but ending up adopting the gray male and a black female. They are both wonderful, but the black girl has the most endearing ways of putting her dear back up close to you and making sure her "question-mark tail" catches your attention first! That way she makes sure she gets the first round of petting! I had never owned a blackie but would highly recommend that everyone consider it!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:49 — anna opincariu (Visitor)
i was looking for a new Kitten after my elderly tiger went to her reward. i ended up adopting a 9ish month old black juvenile named Bear. my heart just broke when the humane society volunteer told me that he had been found outside of the doors and had been in at the shelter ever since. he is big and beautiful, a little clumsy but just a lover. i am an advocate for black kitties.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:49 — Abby (Visitor)
I was lucky enough to adopt my black cat, Ellie, 6 years ago! She has been a great addition to our family and I wouldn't trade her for the world.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:51 — Debbie (Visitor)
I just made a black cat a part of my family. He was a stray that I had been feeding along with a couple of other strays. At first I thought he was feral because he wouldn't come anywhere near me. Gradually he started rubbing up against me when I put the food down and then he would follow my dog and I when we went for a walk. Because we have foxes in the area, I worked with a local group to find homes for the three strays and because the little black boy (who I named Ebony) became so attached to my dog and I, I kept him. He is the funniest, cuddliest cat ever. He gets along great with my other cats but his favorite "brother" is still Bailee, the dog!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:51 — Pam (Visitor)
I have had my Ebony for almost 4 years now and could not ask for a sweeter, loving cat. He is "mama's boy" through and through. Is afraid of his own shadow at times then gets right in your face the next. I have lost and 18 and 14 year olds within the last year, but when the time is right for a new addition, trust me Ebony and Ivory will welcome another black beauty into the fold.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:51 — Nancy (Visitor)
My husband and I surprised our daughter with two black kittens for her birthday. We've had them almost four years now and they are wonderful. Because our daughter loves Halloween, she named them Boo and Shadow. They truly have brought such love and laughter in to our lives. And they are just beautiful animals!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:52 — Geynell Eskite (Visitor)
My black cat "Ninja" was my dear friend for 19 plus yrs. Black cats are wonderful family members.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:53 — Michele H (Visitor)
We found a tiny black kitten hiding in the box of pumpkins at our grocery store five years ago.... He was so tiny and was crying. I picked him up and he started purring. I took him home to my family, we named him Boo and he has been a loving sweet boy that loves to cuddle as close to us as he can get! Best cat!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:53 — Kerry (Visitor)
We had a black cat for 16 years. He was a spooky looking black cat with yellow eyes and sometimes scared some who are not "cat people". But looks can be deceiving. He was a sweet cat who just waited for you to sit down so he could curl up on your lap. If you were to lie down he would lay on your chest and frequently reach up and touch your face with one paw. He was a sweet little guy who looked like a jungle cat. I would definitely not pass on a black cat if adopting.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:54 — Raymond Shia (Visitor)
We have 5 black cats, all adopted from local shelters. All are very special and they get along and co-exist with our Irish Wolf hound. I have always had black cats, they look kool and to me, they seem to be smarter then most cats. I highly recommend adopting a black cat or 2 from your local shelter.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:54 — Andrew (Visitor)
Last Halloween my brother in-law found a stray black kitten in a mall parking lot. Seeing as it was halloween, he was worried what some people might do if they found this little black cat so he brought him home. A few weeks later he was the newest addition to our family. He is the most loving little cat and is best friends with our russian blue Vladimir. Whoever said black cats were bad luck on halloween couldn't be more wrong! We are in fact very lucky to have Zorro in our home.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:54 — Paulette Franke... (Visitor)
Black cats are the best!! I lost my dear "Precious" 8/31/11 after 9 years of unconditional love by a stroke. I saved him from a horrible outside life of hiding in an old tire in the woods. Precious was my constant main man and I miss him so!!! Black cats give so much love, please do not pass them by when looking for a new friend at the shelters.

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:55 — Shelly Logan (Visitor)
We rescued our sweet baby, Jack when our Pit treed him in the backyard. He was soo tiny but very trusting and came down to my daughter without any trouble. We gave him a high shelf in the bathroom so he could look down on the dog (Quigley). As soon as Quigley relized he was part of the family all he wanted to do was play. Now they play togather, with Jack being the istigator and tell on each other when one is being naughty. Black Cats are awsome!! Wouldn't know we would do without him and "Q" would really be lonesome!

Fri, 10/26/2012 - 09:56 — Shawna (Visitor)
Black cats = all the colors of the rainbow. The two black cats I have had in my life have been the most affectionate and loving cats out of them all. Sleeping with their paw in my hand all night, the hugs, the kisses, the connection, their sense of adventure and actual comic timing- too many stories to tell. They are so beautiful and have such amazing personalities.

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