Animal Shelter Seeks Adopters for Black Cats Amid Kitten Surge

An animal welfare organization reports an overwhelming influx of kittens throughout the current year, noting a particular need to find homes for numerous black cats. The Woodside Animal Welfare Trust attributed a significant increase in orphaned felines to a combination of mild temperatures and a rise in unneutered pets since the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. Debbie Haynes, a senior manager at the organization, stated that the current year has seen an unprecedented number of kittens requiring assistance. She also highlighted that black cats, frequently overlooked due to superstitious beliefs, present a particular challenge for adoption. She remarked, “Normally kitten season is April to September but it’s October and we have young, baby kittens here, this should have stopped by now.” Staff at the facility indicate that all incoming orphaned kittens necessitate bottle feeding, a task they describe as demanding a unique level of dedication. Kayleigh Heeson, an animal care assistant, explained, “The hand-rearing means getting up every two hours to feed the kitten and that is day and night”. Despite the peak period having passed, the charity reports that it continues to care for numerous kittens, predominantly black and black-and-white felines, all awaiting adoption. Ms Haynes commented, “It’s been the same over all the years I have been here, I don’t know if it’s superstition or what”.”You see the colourful and tabby ones in a litter go, and the black ones get left behind.” The Blue Cross animal charity noted that the superstition originated from “hysteria surrounding witches,” yet in certain global regions, “they are said to bring good fortune.” For updates, follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for material found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.