An endless void of superstition
Black cats harbor lower adoption rates than other cats.
It is believed these superstitions started sometime around the Middle Ages. During this time in Western Europe, black cats were perceived as signs of evil, disease, death and overall misfortune. According to some shelter and rescue organizations, myths of misfortune may still follow black cats — along with black animals as a whole. This phenomenon is known as Black Dog/Cat Bias or Black Dog Syndrome. BDS is a theory that black dogs and cats have lesser odds of being adopted in a timely manner, which then puts them at higher risk for euthanasia in comparison to their colorful counterparts.
Some characteristics that may contribute to this theory are due to dark coat color and include hard-to-see facial expressions, tricky observation in dimly lit kennels and difficulty to photograph when trying to promote these animals online. Other factors include negative portrayals of black animals in popular media such as movies/books and, of course, lingering superstition.
Although there is a common myth that shelters will not adopt black cats around Halloween due to fear of ritual sacrifice, this is considered to be a rumor. In some shelters, they use this holiday as an opportunity to show off these felines’ beautiful ebony fur as a promotional point to help get these animals adopted!
Top 7 Reasons to Adopt, Not Shop.
- Adoption saves many lives. According to the ASPCA, about 3.2 million cats end up in animal shelters each year in the United States. Sadly, about 530,000 are euthanized. Choosing to adopt means saving the life of a cat in need and other feline lives as well. When you adopt from a shelter, it opens space so the rescue can care for another cat until they find can their forever home.
- Adopting is a smart financial choice. You'll take home a cat that is up to date on vaccines, already spayed or neutered, and even microchipped for a low fee. Some rescues will also include extras in the adoption fee, such as a bag of food, cat toys, or pet insurance.
- It's good for your mental health. Studies show that adopting a cat can positively affect a human's ability to cope with anxiety, loneliness, depression, and stress. Taking a rescue cat home can improve your sense of happiness and well-being.
- It's good for your physical health too! In addition to helping mental and emotional health, cats can improve physical health as well. Cats make their owners less susceptible to heart trouble and cardiovascular disease by lowering stress levels. The sound of a purring cat can even help heal tendons and bones while enhancing joint mobility after injuries. Plus, kids raised around cats are less likely to develop sensitivities to many common allergens.
- Cats can complete your family. Cats aren't just great for human mental health. They can make other pets happier as well. If you have a dog or another lonely cat while you are at work, a new feline friend may be the ideal solution.
- When you adopt a cat, you know what you are getting. Like with people, every cat has their personality. When you adopt, adult cat shelter employees have spent time with these animals and give you insight into their nature and advise if it will be a good fit.
- Rescues seem to have fewer health issues. Just as in dogs, mixed breeds cats tend to experience fewer health issues. Some purebred cats are prone to serious health issues.