Black cats have historically had a bad rap, and in the modern day there are countless numbers of them waiting in shelters for a home.
The reasons there are so many black and tuxedo cats without a home are senseless - everything from a lingering association they are bad luck to the perception that they are difficult to photograph for a social media generation.
As a result, many beautiful black cats have been left to linger in cat shelters.
In fact, black, and black and white cats make up 47 per cent of cats in RSPCA care, more than five times the number of ginger cats.
Yet despite being the most common, black cats also face longer waits for adoption.
On average, black cats stay in care for 71 days, and black-and-white cats for 69 days.
Alice Potter, RSPCA cat welfare expert, said: “Black cats are still being overlooked in rescue centres, often due to outdated superstitions and the myth that they bring bad luck. Sadly, they’re also sometimes seen as less ‘photogenic’ for social media, which can affect adoption interest.
“But the truth is, black cats are just as affectionate, playful and full of personality as any other cat.”
These 23 gorgeous cats are waiting for their luck to change in shelters across South Yorkshire - take a look through our gallery below and see if you can bring one home with you for Halloween.
5. Martha
"Martha is a beautiful black and white female cat, around 1 year old, with a calm and loving nature. She first came to us as a pregnant stray and showed incredible resilience and care as she raised her kittens in our care. All of her little ones have now gone on to loving new homes — and now it’s Martha’s turn to find hers. This sweet girl briefly found a home but, through no fault of her own, has come back to us. She’s now waiting patiently for the right family to come along. Martha has had outdoor access in the past, and we believe she would be happiest in a home where she can safely explore the outdoors once she’s settled in. She’s a young cat with a gentle personality and a quiet confidence that makes her a joy to be around. Could you be the one to give Martha the second chance she deserves?" - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/martha/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
6. Doll & Lulu
"Dolly (2 years old) and Lulu (6 years old) are a gentle, shy pair of indoor cats whose world was turned upside down when their beloved owner sadly passed away. Now, they’re looking for a quiet, loving home where they can stay together and begin to heal. While they may be a little timid at first, with time and patience they begin to show their affectionate side. They both enjoy gentle fuss and will thrive in a calm home where they can come out of their shells at their own pace. If you have space in your home and heart for this sweet duo, they’ll reward you with quiet companionship, gentle affection, and a bond that’s truly special. Please get in touch to give Dolly and Lulu the second chance they deserve — together." - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/dolly-and-lulu/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
7. Fluff
"Fluff is a beautiful 3-year-old long-haired black and white cat with a big personality and an even bigger heart. She originally chose her own home by moving into someone’s garden—and when no previous owner could be found, she came into our care to find a forever family who can give her the love and care she deserves. Having lived outdoors for some time, Fluff is used to her independence and will need safe outdoor access in her new home. She enjoys attention on her terms and will no doubt make a loyal and charming companion once she settles in. Fluff does have a history of Flea Allergic Dermatitis (FAD), which means she’s sensitive to flea bites and needs monthly flea treatments without fail. Any potential flare-ups may require veterinary care, so her future family will need to be prepared to support her skin health as part of her overall wellbeing. Fluff is a sweet, striking cat who’s looking for a stable, caring home where she can be herself. If you’re ready to welcome a cat with both beauty and character, Fluff might just be the perfect match" - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/fluff/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
8. Python & Mamba
"Python and Mamba are a beautiful bonded pair with a tough start to life, but we believe their story is only just beginning. Born outside and unfamiliar with the comforts of a loving home, these young siblings are now in our care – and while they’re currently timid and shut down in the cattery, we see something truly special waiting to shine through. Right now, Python and Mamba are searching for a very special person – someone with patience, kindness, and the heart to guide them through their journey. These two need a gentle soul to take them under their wing and show them that the human touch isn’t something to fear, but something to trust. Python may be shy now, but with time and love, we know he’ll come into his own. Mamba mirrors her brother’s fear, but also his potential to flourish once she feels safe – she appears to be the slightly braver of the pair. They’re both young, adaptable, and just waiting for the right home where they can feel secure, loved, and understood. With time, dedication, and consistency, these kittens will no doubt blossom into affectionate little companions – the kind of transformation that makes every moment of patience worthwhile. We’re looking for an adult-only, quiet home, ideally with someone experienced in shy or nervous cats, and who has the time, space, and heart to commit to helping them grow. The bond you’ll build with these two will be deeply rewarding – and their love, once earned, will be the kind you never forget. Please enquire if you could be the one to give them their chance at happiness!" - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/python-mamba/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary