Our role

The state and territory member Societies provide services to animals in need through their shelters and inspectorates. In the national office, RSPCA Australia works to influence animal welfare policy, practice and legislation across the country
Go to Our role

Key issues

The RSPCA advocates for the welfare of animals across a number of industries, issues and platforms. Help from our supporters is important to progress change. Working together is key.
Go to Key issues
take action live sheep export alternate
Priority issue
Australia is closer than it has ever…
Live sheep export

Support us

Whether you're an individual or a business, there are multiple ways you can support the RSPCA
Go to Support us
An animal in the RSPCA care being cared for by an RSPCA vet
Donate now to support your local RSPCA and make a difference to animal welfare across Australia
Donate

About

The RSPCA is an independent, community-based charity providing animal care and protection services across the country.
Go to About
about us national statistics
Read our National Statistics
Compiled on a national basis by RSPCA…
Annual statistics

Adopt

By choosing adoption, you’ll not only have the chance to make a friend for life, but you’ll be giving an animal a second chance and helping support the RSPCA.
Go to Adopt
adopt a pet logo
Visit the Adoptapet website
Make a difference to a pet’s life today.
Search Adoptapet
Blog

Give some good luck to a black cat in need

Generic Avatar
  • RSPCA Australia
  • Wednesday, 16 August 2017

In the animal shelter world, there’s a phenomenon known as ‘Black Cat Syndrome’ (and the same for black dogs as well), where they are often the last animals to be adopted from shelters.

It’s a heartbreaking truth and is thought to be because of the old superstitions held by some humans – that black animals, and cats in particular, mean bad luck.

However, RSPCA NSW has previously offered up some further explanation for this sad phenomenon too:

When it comes to black cats and dogs, it’s still not clear why some adopters prefer animals with lighter-coloured fur.

Some shelter workers say it is because it’s harder for potential fur families to read the facial expressions of black cats and dogs.

Others say it’s because black-furred animals do not usually photograph well. This means that when shelters put pet profiles with photos on their websites, lighter-coloured animals may have an advantage, as they just look more photogenic.

A black cat is also often associated with witchcraft, and can be seen as a symbol of Halloween and all things scary. Hollywood has contributed to this: in movies, black cats are typically portrayed as villains and black dogs are the devil in disguise.

Because of this, some potential adopters also (incorrectly) think the colour black represents evil, so this can affect their actions when choosing a cat or dog.

All animals deserve a loving, forever home, no matter how they look. If you’re thinking about adding a furry feline friend to your family, please don’t pass up the opportunity to adopt a gorgeous black cat (or dog!).

It will not only mean good luck for you, but will be a lucky day for that cat or dog as well.

www.adoptapet.com.au

subscribe box

Stay informed on big issues and how you can help improve animal welfare across Australia.

Subscribe today and we’ll keep you updated on all the latest campaigns, events and news.