Why Black Cats Are Harder to Re-home: Myths, Misconceptions and Realities
Posted on 10th October 2024 at 07:20
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 While these myths may seem outdated, they have left a lasting impression, particularly in Western culture, where many still see black cats as bringers of bad luck.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.