Adoption requests for black cats surge around Halloween due to concerns about ‘ritual purposes’ or ‘decorative use.’ Published on October 15, 2025, this article highlights warnings from animal welfare organizations regarding the potential harm to black cats during the Halloween season. Historically associated with bad luck and the occult, black cats are now facing a temporary adoption ban in a Spanish town to protect them from possible exploitation during this time.
The animal welfare service in Terrassa, located north of Barcelona, announced on October 6 that all adoption or fostering requests for black cats will be denied from October 1 to November 10. This measure aims to mitigate the “possible risks… stemming from superstitions, rituals, or irresponsible uses,” as stated by local authorities.
The decision was made in light of the Halloween season and in accordance with the precautionary measures recommended by various animal protection organizations. Local newspaper Diari de Terrassa reported that animal welfare councillor Noel Duque noted an increase in adoption requests for black cats around Halloween, often for “ritual purposes” or simply as “decorations because ‘it’s cool.’”
Duque emphasized that the town hall could not ignore this serious issue. Animal welfare groups have raised alarms about the potential for cats to be harmed, killed, or used as props during Halloween rituals. Exceptions to the adoption ban will be considered on a case-by-case basis, evaluated by the center’s technical team, ensuring a safe environment and a reliable history of the applicant.
The standard adoption and fostering process will resume after Halloween, with the possibility of implementing similar bans in the future. According to municipal authorities, Terrassa is home to over 9,800 cats.