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When it comes to adopting a cat, you’d think that all cats, regardless of their colour, have an equal chance of finding a loving home. Unfortunately, this isn't the case for black cats. Across the UK, black cats are often overlooked in favour of their more colourful counterparts, and as a result, they are more difficult to re-home. Lisa Dennis, Branch Manager agrees: “Black cats tend to stay at our shelter for longer than other cats so we’d love people to be more open-minded.” 
 
In this blog, we will explore the reasons why black cats are more difficult to re-home, debunk the myths and misconceptions surrounding them, and encourage potential adopters to look beyond the colour of a cat’s fur when considering adoption. 
 
1. Superstitions and Myths 
 
One of the most significant reasons black cats struggle to find homes is rooted in superstition. Today, they are one of the main images associated with Halloween but throughout history, they have often been associated with bad luck and witchcraft. In medieval Europe, black cats were believed to be witches’ animals, or even witches themselves in disguise, and were feared and persecuted as a result. While these myths may seem outdated, they have left a lasting impression, particularly in Western culture, where many still see black cats as bringers of bad luck. 
 
In contrast, in many other cultures, such as Japan and parts of the UK, black cats are considered good luck. However, the negative associations seem to dominate the narrative, making potential adopters hesitant to bring a black cat into their home. 
 
2. "Plain" Appearance and Lack of Distinctive Markings 
 
Another factor that makes black cats more difficult to re-home is their perceived "plain" appearance. Cats with more distinctive or striking markings, such as tortoiseshell, tabby, or white cats, tend to catch the eye of prospective adopters more easily. Black cats, on the other hand, are sometimes overlooked simply because they don’t stand out in a crowded shelter. 
 
Some people mistakenly think that black cats all look the same, which couldn’t be further from the truth. Black cats can have a range of eye colours, fur textures, and body types, and their personalities are just as varied as any other cat. 
 
3. Photogenic Concerns and the Impact of Social Media 
 
In the age of social media, many people document their lives online, including their pets. Unfortunately, black cats are often perceived as less photogenic than cats with lighter coats or more distinctive markings. Their dark fur can make it difficult to capture their features clearly in photographs, leading to a misconception that they are less “Instagrammable” than other cats. 
 
For potential adopters who want a pet to feature in their social media posts, this can be a deterrent. In fact, some shelters have noted that the rise of social media has had an impact on pet adoption trends, with more people seeking pets that they feel will photograph well. This shallow consideration is one more barrier that black cats face when trying to find a home. 
 
4. Black Cats are Harder to Spot in Shelters 
 
Animal shelters are often bustling environments with many animals vying for attention. In this setting, black cats can quite literally blend into the background. Their dark coats can make them less noticeable, which is a disadvantage when adopters are browsing for a new pet. 
 
Additionally, many shelters have noted that lighter-coloured cats tend to attract more attention simply because they stand out visually. This makes it more difficult for black cats to make a strong first impression, even though their personalities might shine just as brightly as any other cat in the shelter. 
 
5. A Longer Wait for Adoption 
 
Statistics from animal shelters across the UK consistently show that black cats take longer to be adopted than cats of other colours. In fact, the RSPCA has recently revealed that it can take three times longer to rehome black cats compared to other types. Even black kittens are often the last to be chosen. This longer wait can take a toll on the cats themselves. Spending more time in a shelter environment can lead to stress, anxiety, and behavioural issues, all of which can further reduce their chances of being adopted. 
 
6. Challenging Stereotypes and Breaking the Cycle 
 
Despite these challenges, black cats make wonderful companions. They are affectionate, playful, and just as loyal as any other cat. The perception that black cats are somehow "lesser" pets is rooted in myths and shallow preferences, but fortunately, awareness around this issue is growing. 
 
In reality, a cat’s colour has no bearing on its temperament or ability to provide love and companionship. Lisa adds, “Recently we had three black cats (brothers) who were all adopted by a family. They have since contacted us with a wonderful update on them, saying ‘we cannot imagine life without them now’.” 
 
7. Adopting a Black Cat: A Rewarding Choice 
 
If you’re considering adopting a cat, choosing a black cat can be a deeply rewarding decision. You’re not only gaining a loyal, loving companion but also helping to dismantle the biases that make it more difficult for these cats to find homes. Many black cat owners report that their pets are among the most affectionate and playful cats they’ve ever owned. 
 
In conclusion, black cats face a unique set of challenges when it comes to re-homing due to superstition, perceived "plainness," and the impact of social media. However, these obstacles are based on outdated myths and superficial concerns. By choosing to adopt a black cat, you’re not only gaining a wonderful companion but also helping to break down the stereotypes that keep these amazing animals waiting longer in shelters. Every cat deserves a loving home, and black cats are no exception. 
One of the most crucial aspects of responsible cat ownership is neutering or spaying your pet. Neutering refers to the surgical removal of the reproductive organs in male cats, while spaying refers to the same procedure for females. These procedures are straightforward, safe, and provide significant benefits for the health of your cat and the wider community. 
 
This blog will explore why neutering cats (male and female) is so important, outlining the health, behavioural, and societal advantages of this essential practice. 
 
1. Preventing Unwanted Litters 
 
A primary reason for neutering cats is to prevent the birth of unwanted kittens. Cats are prolific breeders. A female cat can become pregnant as early as four months old and may have several litters a year, with each litter typically consisting of four to six kittens. This rapid reproduction contributes to the overwhelming number of stray cats and overcrowded animal shelters. 
 
Here at the Ashford District Garden Cattery, we often see situations get out of hand due to lack of neutering. Branch Manager, Lisa Dennis, says: “Recently our Cattery Rehoming Centre took in 18 unneutered cats and 12 kittens from one house, resulting from one un-spayed female. Multi-cat households can be very stressful for unneutered cats. Male cats will fight over the female cats when they are in season. Female cats can become pregnant as young as four months. Inbreeding can cause health issues due to their genetic similarities and also behavioural issues. This is why neutering your cat is so important.” 
 
2. Improving Your Cat's Health 
 
Neutering is also crucial for your cat’s long-term health. Spaying female cats significantly reduces the risk of serious conditions such as uterine infections and mammary tumours. Around 90% of mammary tumours in cats are malignant (cancerous), and spaying your female cat before her first heat can greatly reduce the chances of her developing these diseases. 
 
For male cats, neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and lowers the likelihood of prostate problems. Additionally, neutered male cats are less likely to contract infections or suffer injuries caused by fights with other males over territory or females in heat. 
 
Moreover, neutering reduces the stress associated with the reproductive cycle. Cats that are not neutered often become anxious, restless, and may stop eating while searching for a mate, which can have a negative impact on their overall health. 
 
3. Reducing Unwanted Behaviours 
 
Neutering can help manage or eliminate many undesirable behaviours in both male and female cats. A lot of the behavioural issues seen in unneutered cats stem from the urge to 
 
mate. Male cats, in particular, can become more aggressive, territorial, and may spray strong-smelling urine around the home to mark their territory – a common complaint among owners of unneutered males. 
 
Female cats that are not spayed can go into heat multiple times a year, which can be distressing for both the cat and the owner. Cats in heat often become overly vocal, restless, and may attempt to escape the home in search of a mate, putting themselves in harm’s way outdoors. 
 
Neutering tends to reduce these behaviours, resulting in a more content, calm, and home-friendly pet. Neutered cats are also less likely to roam, fight, or spray, making them less vulnerable to accidents and injuries caused by territorial disputes or mating. 
 
4. Supporting a Healthier and Happier Community 
 
Beyond the individual benefits for your cat, neutering has a significant positive impact on the wider community. Stray and feral cats often live in poor conditions, facing dangers such as disease, traffic, and starvation. Neutering plays a critical role in managing and reducing the number of stray cats, easing the pressure on local shelters, rescue organisations, and public health systems. 
 
In areas with high populations of unneutered cats, there is an increased risk of diseases such as toxoplasmosis and cat scratch fever being transmitted to humans. By reducing the number of stray cats, neutering helps protect public health. 
 
Additionally, neutered cats are less likely to roam and interact with wildlife, reducing the impact of predation on local ecosystems. Cats are natural hunters, and their presence can seriously affect bird populations and other small wildlife. Neutering helps mitigate this ecological impact. 
 
5. A Humane Approach to Animal Welfare 
 
At its heart, neutering is a compassionate and humane choice. By taking this step, cat owners ensure they are not contributing to the problem of pet overpopulation. Cats are unable to regulate their own reproduction, so they rely on us to make responsible decisions on their behalf. 
 
Neutering also promotes a higher quality of life for the animal. Neutered cats are more likely to live longer, healthier lives, free from the stress and dangers associated with mating. Furthermore, since they are less likely to wander far from home, the risk of them becoming lost or injured in traffic is reduced. 
 
6. Affordable and Accessible 
 
Many people hesitate to neuter their cats due to concerns about cost. However, most veterinary practices offer affordable options, and there are many animal welfare 
 
organisations in the UK that provide low-cost or even free neutering services, particularly for stray or feral cats. The cost of neutering is a small price to pay for the long-term health and happiness of your pet and the benefits it brings to the community. 
 
Now that we’ve explored the benefits of having your cat neutered, let’s explain what’s involved in the procedure and when you should plan for it. Getting your female cat spayed 
 
To stop your female cat from having kittens, she'll need to be spayed before she turns four months old. At this age, even though she’s still a kitten herself, she'll start to attract the attention of tomcats, who'll want to mate with her. 
 
Some say that it's good for female cats to have a litter of kittens before they are spayed, but this isn't true. Once she's been spayed, your kitten will be able to do all the things cats enjoy doing, like going outdoors, climbing trees and playing. 
 
Getting your male cat neutered 
 
If you have a male cat, neutering is a simple operation that should happen when he is around four months old. Aside from the other benefits explained in this blog, the procedure will also protect him from a nasty disease called FIV, which is the cat version of HIV. It's spread through cat bites, often between males fighting over a female. It can't be caught by people. 
 
What's involved in the neutering operation? 
 
Your cat will need to be dropped off at the vet and picked up again later that same day. 
 
The operation is very simple and your cat will be given an anaesthetic. Once they're back home, they'll need to stay in for a short time (your vet will tell you how long), but they'll soon be fit and well again. 
 
Conclusion 
 
In conclusion, neutering cats is a simple yet essential step that all cat owners should take to ensure their pet’s health, manage their behaviour, and contribute to controlling the population of unwanted cats. Whether your cat is a kitten or an adult, neutering should be a top priority in their care. Contact your vet for more information.