Spanish Town Bans Black Cat Adoptions Over Halloween Fears

In an unusual but precautionary move, the Spanish town of Terrassa, located north of Barcelona, has temporarily banned black cat adoptions until November 10 to protect the animals from potential harm during Halloween.

Local officials say the ban, announced by the town’s animal welfare service, is meant to prevent cats from being used in so-called “rituals,” superstitious acts, or even as Halloween decorations.

Animal welfare councillor Noel Duque explained that adoption requests for black cats typically surge in late October “for ritual purposes” or “because it looks cool,” but that authorities “could not look the other way” in the face of possible cruelty.

Animal rights organizations have long warned that black cats are especially vulnerable around Halloween, often targeted due to lingering myths linking them with witchcraft and bad luck.

The adoption freeze will lift after the holiday season, but officials say a similar measure could return in future years to ensure feline safety.