[Dan Norris at Bath College]
It’s maybe no surprise that black cats get a bad rap. After all, they have been associated with Halloween as well as witchcraft, bad luck and misfortune since the Middle Ages.
But local MP, and long-standing animal rights campaigner, Dan Norris, says it’s time to bust any negative black cat myths and superstitions once and for all, and for potential pet owners in North East Somerset and Hanham to consider adopting a monochrome moggy this Halloween, and beyond.
Recent figures from Cats Protection show over 40% of cats given up for adoption at their centres are black and these felines can take 13% longer to find their forever homes than cats of other colours.
That is despite the fact animal health experts say that black cats come with several health benefits that make them great companions.
Meanwhile, in some cultures, such as Japan, black cats are considered a good omen, rather than a bad one. In France, showing them respect is thought to bring you great reward, and if you hear a black cat sneeze in Italy, you’re apparently in for a streak of good luck.
Dan Norris MP said: “Despite all the spooky superstitions and myths, black cats actually make wonderful pets. I’m saddened to hear that figures show it takes 30 days more to home a black cat than other coloured cats. These monochrome moggies deserve a purr-fect loving home. But shhh, don’t tell my cocker spaniel Angel, she thinks I’m a dog-only person.”
For those who make the decision to adopt a cat this Halloween, Mr Norris pointed to Cats Protection’s top tips to look after them properly, including getting them a nice comfy bed, food and water bowls, and a scratching post. Check out the tips online:www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/home-and-environment/bringing-a-cat-home.
