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Alice Potter, RSPCA cat welfare expert, said: “Black cats are still being overlooked in rescue centres, often due to outdated superstitions and the myth that they bring bad luck.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.
9. Belle
"Belle is a sweet and sensitive 9-year-old cat who’s looking for a calm and loving forever home. This lovely black and white girl came into our care after struggling with stress in a busy household. She’s now hoping to find a quiet environment where she can truly relax and be herself. Belle has a gentle nature and would thrive in a home with older, calm children and possibly a calm dog who will respect her space. She’s not one for hustle and bustle – instead, she enjoys a peaceful routine, soft spots to nap in, and a safe garden where she can potter around and enjoy the fresh air. She has previously had outdoor access, so a safe garden is a must for her to explore at her own pace once she’s settled in. If you can offer Belle the calm, steady home she deserves, she’ll reward you with loyalty, quiet companionship, and lots of love." - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/belle/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
10. Celeste
"Celeste is looking for a special home. If you've been following this lovely girl's story, you'll know she has been through a lot in her short life, but she has come out the other side and deserves the best home in the world! She is a feline warrior! Celeste came to us just after she gave birth in an old dumped sofa, and was living with a colony of stray cats. We discovered two things: 1) she had luxating patellas, and 2) she had FIV. She has been doing super well and we think she is about ready to find her forever home now. She is bold and friendly with people she knows and has built a bond with. She loves a chin rub, but has some strong opinions about what is acceptable and will give you a tap with her paw (no claws involved!) when she thinks you are doing something wrong. She LOVES being brushed, all we have to do is tap her brush on the floor and she comes running!" - https://eur03d.sheltermanager.com/service?account=rh2381&method=animal_view&animalid=1149&template=animalview | Sheffield Cats Shelter
11. Lauren & Chloe
"These pretty ladies need a special home, where they will have everything they need.....which isn't a lot really! Lauren and Chloe would be very happy as lodgers in someone's home, snoozing in the windowsills and curling up in the hidden corners, behind the curtains, playing with pompoms! They love to play and enjoy a few Dreamies (but not from your hand, that's far too risky!). Chloe always looks grumpy, and Lauren always looks inquisitive, so together they make a funny little pair!" - https://eur03d.sheltermanager.com/service?account=rh2381&method=animal_view&animalid=735&template=animalview | Sheffield Cats Shelter
12. Cora
"Cora has a face like butter wouldn't melt! She is a heartbreaker! Cora is also playful, affectionate and knows what she wants in life.....and if she aint getting it, she'll let you know! Cora enjoys having the freedom to go outside, but enjoys time around her humans too on a calm evening. Cora has lived with children before, but can be a bit nippy so older children would be best. Cora has also lived with other cats before, but she isn't keen on them, and couldn't wait to start afresh on her own! This little ball of fluff will make an entertaining family member for the right family....is it yours? If so, get in touch." - https://eur03d.sheltermanager.com/service?account=rh2381&method=animal_view&animalid=1321&template=animalview | Sheffield Cats Shelter