With thousands of cats being cared for by the leading animal welfare charity each year, Battersea welcomes cats of all ages, personalities and coat colours, however its black feline residents can often be overlooked in favour of their colourful counterparts. To celebrate National Black Cat Day (27 October), the much-loved charity is encouraging the public to look beyond a cat’s appearance and consider its beloved black cats waiting for a second chance.
Black cats can sometimes be seen as less favourable due to the myths and misconceptions that surround them, such as their common association with the supernatural, particularly at this spooky time of year, or that crossing their path can bring bad luck. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Samantha Paget, Cattery Team Leader at Battersea, said: “Black cats are sweet, loyal companions that make ideal pets for many people looking to welcome an animal into their lives, however they can sadly be overlooked due to the misconceptions of their character, whether that’s people believing they aren’t very photogenic, or that they bring bad luck. However, the black cats in our care are just as beautiful as any other feline and just want to be loved.
“We would encourage anyone thinking about giving a cat a loving home to consider one of our wonderful black cats, such as gentle-natured Tika Meowsala who is looking for a quiet home to spend his retirement, and seven-year-old kitten at heart Pumpkin, who loves nothing more than playing with his favourite people.”
Meet some of Battersea’s monochrome residents looking for their perfect match:
Nelly
Nelly came to Battersea after being found as a stray needing lots of love and care and was brought to the charity’s London centre by a quick-thinking member of the public. Since her arrival, she has undergone an impressive transformation thanks to the support she has received from Battersea’s experts and quickly became a staff favourite with her gentle personality and affectionate nature. In her new home, Nelly is hoping for a garden where she can stretch her legs and come and go as she pleases.
Meteor
One-year-old Meteor is a sweet and gentle cat with lots of love to give who is looking for a quiet home with owners she can lie on and rely on. Once settled, Meteor is a bundle of energy who enjoys nothing more than chasing around her string toys or clambering on the laps of her favourite people and greeting them with kisses. Meteor is hoping to find a home with patient owners who can give her the time and space she needs to come out of her shell at her own pace.
Tika Meowsala
Tika Mewosala is an older gentlemen who is hoping to find a cosy retirement home where he can curl up beside his owners for a well-earned snooze. As an explorer at heart, Tika is looking for a home with a private garden where he can go on plenty of adventures. He has been described by the charity’s staff as a chatty boy once he gets to know you, and will nudge your hands for more attention and chin rubs. After spending over 50 days in Battersea’s care, he is hoping the right match will come along soon.
Mumu
Marvellous Mumu is a one-year-old Domestic Shorthair cat who is happiest when spending time with his favourite people, especially if he’s treated to lots of chin and head rubs. The way to Mumu’s heart is through his stomach and has proven to be a real foodie during his time at Battersea, especially enjoying his meaty stick treats. Although he has shown to prefer the simpler things in life during his time in the charity’s care, he would benefit from having a range of toys in his new home to keep him busy and for bonding with his new family.
Pumpkin
Seven-year-old Pumpkin is a lovely lady who is happiest when spending time with her human friends. As she was quite worried in the cattery environment, Pumpkin has been spending time in a home environment with one of Battersea’s dedicated Foster Carers where she has really found her paws and will follow them around for all the chin scratches she can get. After almost 200 days in our care, she is ready to find a quiet haven with a loving family.
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For further information, images or interviews please contact press@battersea.org.uk.
Notes to editors
- At Battersea we offer our love and expert care to dogs and cats who need us by rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals at our centres, and by sharing our knowledge and resources with other organisations around the world. We do this because we want to help every dog and cat, everywhere.
- In 2023 Battersea directly cared for 2,529 dogs and 2,450 cats at our three centres. We also helped thousands more through campaigning work, supporting other rescues and animal welfare advocates, and sharing knowledge and advice with pet owners.
- In addition to the site in South West London, Battersea also has two other centres based at Old Windsor, Berkshire, and Brands Hatch, Kent.
- To find out more visit our website or follow Battersea on X @battersea_, Instagram @battersea or facebook.com/Battersea.