Just like vampires and ghosts, the black cat is a traditional image at Halloween. In UK folklore they are a symbol of bad luck but despite common myths there is nothing superstitious about black cats.

At the RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange cattery, in Nantwich, Cheshire, there are black cats waiting to find a new home at this spooky time of year.

The cattery has gotten into the spirit of Halloween in an effort to encourage people to rehome their black cats.

“They won’t bring you good luck or bad luck, they are not prone to living with witches or associated with dark magic -  these black cats just need a loving forever home. These cats have all had a tough time before coming into us, after living as strays or being abandoned.  The team are determined to find them all their perfect homes,” said Lee Stewart, manager of the cattery.

Jazz, (pictured left) who has been at Stapeley Grange since April, is only two years old so she has already spent a quarter of her life waiting for a new home. She came into the RSPCA’s care after being abandoned in Winsford. Jazz is a very friendly cat who loves getting fussed. She likes to be handled, however she doesn’t get along with other cats so would need to be the only pet in the household. She would need a quiet home so ideally would be with an adult-only household. Jazz is currently Stapeley’s longest-stay cat and we would love to see her rehomed soon this Halloween!

Ravan (pictured right) arrived at Stapeley in May after being rescued from neglect. Like Jazz, he is also two years old but has waited five long months for someone to adopt him. He is a friendly cat but isn’t keen on other cats.

Aston and Gizmo  (pictured below) came into Stapeley as a pair and would need to be rehomed together as they get on very well together. Aston (pictured below) is the oldest at 10, while Gizmo is aged seven. Aston has a large scar on his back and we’re not sure how he got this. He is also easily startled and is slightly nervous, but he loves fuss once he starts to trust you. Gizmo (pictured left) is more confident and also loves fuss - but he’ll let you know when he has had enough! Both are full of character and will make lovely pets.

 To enquire about rehoming a cat from Stapeley, contact the cattery by calling 0300 123 0748 or email stapeleycattery@rspca.org.uk. You can also pop into the cattery, in London Road, Nantwich, anytime between 11.30am to 3.30pm every day except Monday. On Wednesdays, the cattery is open later until 7pm to try and attract more potential adopters.

The RSPCA is a charity and relies on public donations to exist. It costs the centre £50,000 to feed the 6,500 animals which are admitted every year. The food bill for seals alone costs £500 a week. Anyone who would like to support the vital work of Stapeley Grange can now donate online at www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/rspcahq/stapeleygrange.