Anyone who has met a cat knows that – regardless the package – they each have a wonderfully unique, adorable, and often very funny personality. It follows, then, that black cats are of course no different! So why is it that they get their own day? National Black Cat day is today, November 17th, here in the United States, but the United Kingdoms also celebrate this holiday (October 27th). What makes these sleek felines so special?
Black cats have often received a bad rap, whether due to superstitions or otherwise. Once upon a time, in certain regions, these beautiful felines were even considered a sign of good luck. Nowadays, however, they reportedly have the highest rates of euthanasia in the country, as well as the lowest adoption rates. They don’t always stand out on an adoption floor, where they contend with variously brighter colored cats; nor are they always the most photogenic felines around. But today is a day to remind all of us that every cat, regardless of the color, shape or size, deserves a second chance and a loving home.
Natasha Fatale and Boris Badenov are the perfect example. These two were rescued from a traditional shelter, where they were slated for euthanasia. Boris (pictured) and his siblings were sick (sadly, this is a common occurrence at traditional shelters, where kittens and elderly cats often succumb to illness as a result of stress and overcrowding), and Natasha was fearful of all the strange people, metal cages, and overwhelming new smells of the place. Luckily, a kind foster parent stepped up to help get these cats survive and find a new place to call home. Despite all the foster’s efforts and many vet visits, only Boris survived of Natasha’s litter of kittens. Natasha herself tested positive for FIV, but Boris has not – which goes to show that this virus is indeed tough to pass from mother to kitten (and is not commonly transmitted in the home, either!). During their stay in the foster home, this mother and son duo grew immensely bonded. Even after arriving at Tree House, through all the stress involved with moving to a new environment and meeting new people, these two remain inseparable.
Boris is a spunky little five month old, full of energy, curiosity, and a need for play! He is fearless – ready to hop into any new lap for neck rubs and snuggles; that is, if he is not already up to mischief elsewhere. His mother, Natasha is a little more shy at first, but is very sweet and accepting of cheek scratches once she is given time to acclimate. And, though Boris normally takes over play time, Natasha is playful and curious too (she is, after all, still young at only about two years of age). The two can be found snuggling together in our Development office here at our Uptown branch. After such a long journey, this bonded mother and son pair is more than ready to find their forever home. Learn more about these two and our other adoptable cats by visiting our website, or simply stop on by!
There are so many ways to help Boris, Natasha, and other cats just like them. If you or someone you know is thinking about making an addition to your family in the form of a four-legged feline, choose to save a life by adopting from your local shelter. When going to find your new companion, always remember to consider the cats’ personalities, not just their appearances. If you aren’t ready to adopt at this time, don’t worry – there are still many ways to help these cats in need, and every way to help is fun! Every single volunteer, donation, foster parent, and event attendee is vital to the work we do here at Tree House. Nothing is too small – please help us make a difference today!
Our annual Black Cat Ball is coming up this Saturday, November 21st, at the Redmoon Spectacle Hall. This is our premier fundraising event of the year, and we invite you to join us for an evening of food, drinks, and entertainment while we celebrate these amazing animals, like Boris and Natasha. And for today only, tickets to the Black Cat Ball are available at a discounted rate, in honor of National Black Cat Day! So what are you waiting for? Join the Tree House family today and help us save more lives each year.
Posted by Samantha A.
The post It’s National Black Cat Day! appeared first on Tree House Humane Society.