Worthing Cat Welfare Trust (WCWT) said it is struggling to rehome 20 black cats as people ‘heartbreakingly’ opt to adopt felines of other colours.
According to WCWT trustee Joss Loader, this may have something to do with an old superstition.
Joss said: "It's hard to pinpoint why these lovely cats appear to be less popular with would-be adopters.
“There appears to be some superstition attached. Some are worried that they're unlucky - which is patently not the case - yet in other cultures they can symbolise good fortune and longevity.
"What is true, is that all these lovely cats deserve a second chance with loving homes. They really shouldn't be overlooked so frequently, simply because of their colour.
"It's unfair and really sad for the cats and worrying for those at WCWT who are looking after them."
Black, and black and white cats, are ‘heartbreakingly so often passed by’ according to Joss, despite the charity’s best efforts to secure their forever homes as quickly as possible.
At the time of writing, WCWT is currently caring for 20 black, and black and white, cats who have been unable to find loving families.
Joss added: “Like all rescue cats, they shouldn’t be in a pen for a day longer than they have to be.
“Our hard-working, dedicated team of volunteers and fantastic fosterers do their utmost to give them the care and love that they so desperately want.
“But ultimately there is no substitute for a safe and secure, permanent home.
“Are you saddened by their plight? We are too and would love to hear from new adopters and/or fosterers urgently.”
To find out more about the cats at WCWT, and to enquire about adopting visit: www.worthingcatwelfaretrust.org.
Got another cat already? WCWT can help you find a good match and offers professional advice about effective introductions.
No garden or live on a busy road? You may be able to help with fostering, where all costs, including food, litter and vets’ bills, are covered. For more information, email: [email protected].
See the cats for adoption below.
9. Beans and Berry
Ten-week old Beans (chocolate/white, male) and Berry (black, female) are a very bonded brother/sister pair. They can be a bit shy to start but once they know you they love cuddles and fuss. Beans and Berry could live with children and may be okay with other pets, with careful introductions. Photo: WCWT
10. Mango and Ralf
Nine-year olds Mango and Ralf need a new home together. Both are very friendly. Mango is more outgoing, whereas Ralf takes a little more time to shine. They need to be the only pets and could be homed with children over ten. Photo: WCWT
11. Wesley
Two-year old Wesley arrived as an injured stray. He is a bit shy to start, but once he settles he is very friendly and loves attention. He can sometimes get over-excited with play and nibble and grab; but it’s not serious biting. Wesley would possibly be okay with another young cat, if introduced correctly, but he cannot live with dogs. He could be homed with children over the age of eight. Photo: WCWT
12. Echo
Echo is three-years-old and didn’t have the best start in life. Once he has access to a large garden without too many cats around – ideally in the countryside – he will likely be a happier, more content cat. His foster carer for the last three months says that he is now sitting on her lap, and he follows her from room to room, so he is showing signs of trusting humans at last. Echo needs a home without children or other pets. Photo: WCWT