The town of Terrassa in north-eastern Catalonia has implemented a temporary ban on the adoption of black cats from local animal shelters, effective from October 6 to November 10. This measure aims to protect the cats from potential harm or misuse during Halloween, a time when requests for adopting these animals typically increase, according to Deputy Mayor Noel Duque.
The local animal welfare service noted that while there is no evidence of cruelty towards black cats in Terrassa, incidents have occurred elsewhere, prompting the decision following warnings from animal welfare groups. The council seeks to prevent impulsive adoptions that could lead to negative outcomes, particularly during this period associated with superstitions regarding black cats.
Despite the common belief in some Western cultures that black cats are linked to bad luck and witchcraft, other cultures, such as those in Japan and Egypt, regard them as symbols of good fortune. The town has approximately 9,800 cats, with the adoption center housing around 100 cats, including 12 black felines.
The council has clarified that this ban is both temporary and exceptional, positioned as a precautionary measure to ensure animal welfare. While the blanket ban will be lifted after Halloween, individual exceptions can be made for adoption applications during this period on a case-by-case basis. The local authorities did not dismiss the possibility of reinstating such a ban in future years.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c77zjkxj750o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss