Black cats and Halloween: Why has a Spanish council banned their adoption?

The Terrassa City Council near Barcelona has suspended black cat adoptions until the end of October to prevent their use in Halloween rituals and superstitions. Deputy mayor Noel Duque explained on social media that organizations and residents have reported concerns about people adopting black cats for ritual purposes, leading to this precautionary measure. Animal protection groups note an increase in requests for black cats as party props or for witchcraft rituals. This move follows similar restrictions in other cities, reflecting ongoing superstitions where black cats are linked to bad luck and dark powers. The council emphasizes that all cat adoptions require proof of responsible care post-Halloween.

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