One in 10 Brits won't adopt a black cat or dog because of superstitions, study finds

A recent survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 12% believe pets of this colour bring bad luck and would always choose a different shade to avoid this.

The study was commissioned by Lottoland which had partnered with the Blue Cross, to raise money through their charity.

The research found that a quarter of adults are 'very' or 'somewhat' superstitious and according to additional data from the charity Blue Cross, black cats and take longer to be adopted than other animals, possibly due to these superstitions.

A spokesperson for Lottoland said : "Superstitions have been a part of human culture for centuries, passed down from generation to generation. At their core, they often stem from a need to make sense of the unknown and to seek control in situations where we might feel powerless."

It seems being superstitious isn't uncommon amongst Brits as a third fear breaking a mirror and 14% would never spill some salt - without taking the time to throw some over their shoulder afterwards.

Almost a third of superstition-followers have passed one of their behaviours on to a family member or friend, that they now follow.

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Mary Haisman, head of corporate partnerships, community and events at Blue Cross, adopted Pablo from their Blue Cross Devon site, after he had been in foster care for five months.

She stressed: "It takes an extra five days and £50 more on average for us to find loving new homes for black cats, compared to others in our care."

"Whilst we cannot know for certain, the suspicions were that it took so long because he's a black dog, but I honestly can't think of any other reason."

"Black pets are just as loving, loyal, and deserving of a home as any other animal" Talking about Pablo she said: "He has the sweetest temperament, gives our family endless love, and is such an important part of my life."

Adding: "There's no reason to let outdated superstitions stop you from welcoming a black dog or cat into your home."