Cats Tales: Happy Halloween!

Black cats are a prominent symbol of Halloween and have long been associated with evil superstitions. We’ve all heard the old wives tale: “It’s a bad omen to have a black cat cross your path.” But where does this negativity towards black felines stem from?

The story dates back to the Middle Ages, a time in European history when witchcraft was greatly feared. During this time period, those (mostly women) believed to be witches were tortured and even burned alive. Many people of this time also believed that these witches used small animals to cast their spells.

According to the History Channel, “The idea of the witch as the embodiment of evil was so powerful that even animals associated with witches took on demonic reputations. The black cats we decorate Halloween with today came from a belief that the cat — nocturnal by nature — was a witch’s spirit but in animal form.”

In celebration of Halloween, Latest 7 implore you to adopt a black cat, we’ve found the perfect moggy for you! Meet Tucan, she is a very sweet, placid female aged 12. This lovely old girl will need a quiet, adult only home with no other pets and a garden as she adores sitting outside. Tucan would make the purrrrfect companion especially for someone who is retired or works from home. She enjoys a fuss and is very affectionate.

To adopt Tucan visit: www.raystede.org, 01825 840252

Lots of other animals are available, waiting for forever homes

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

How to keep your pets safe

1. Stash the treats: The sweetie bowl is for trick-or-treaters, not Scruffy or Fluffy. Several popular Halloween treats are toxic to pets. Chocolate in all forms – especially dark or baking chocolate – can be very dangerous for cats and dogs.

2. Watch the decorations and keep wires out of reach: While a carved pumpkin certainly is festive, pets can easily knock it over and start a fire. Curious kittens are especially at risk of getting burned or singed by candle flame. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered relatively nontoxic, but can produce stomach discomfort in pets who nibble on them.

3. Be careful with costumes: For some pets, wearing a costume may cause undue stress. The ASPCA recommends that you don’t put your dog or cat in a costume unless you know he or she loves it.

4. Keep pets calm: Halloween brings a flurry of activity with visitors arriving at the door, and too many strangers can often be scary and stressful for pets. All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept away from the door during peak trick-or-treating hours.

For more info visit: www.aspca.org