The RSPCA is aiming to debunk misconceptions about rescue pets, which it believes deter people from adopting.

Among these myths is the belief that black cats are unlucky or don't look good in photos, causing them to remain in shelters for longer.

Regardless of their fur colour, the RSPCA insists all animals can bring love and companionship to a family.

Currently, they have a significant number of black and black-and-white cats awaiting adoption.

This month, as part of 'Adoptober', the RSPCA is working to find homes for an increasing number of animals in its care.

The RSPCA has a huge amount of black, and black and white, cats in their care looking for their forever home (like Lily, pictured) (Image: RSPCA) The charity said 118 animals have been waiting for adoption for over 100 days.

According to the RSPCA, the average time dogs, cats, and rabbits spend in shelters before being adopted has increased by nearly one-third over the past five years, rising from 31.7 days in 2019 to 41.4 days in 2023.

Many shelters are now at full capacity, with some animals placed in costly emergency boarding centres.

RSPCA's pet welfare expert, Dominika Jagoda, encourages people to consider adopting a pet, whether it be a cat, dog, donkey, or even a bearded dragon.

She said: "Those of us with adopted pets know how rewarding it can be to share our lives with them, and watch them thrive after being given a second chance.

"Our staff and volunteers in our animal centres and branches would love to hear from anyone looking to take on a pet and would be happy to explain the different needs their rescue pets require.

"So if you’re looking for a pet - whether it’s a cat or dog, a donkey or a bearded dragon - please visit our user-friendly ‘Find A Pet’ webpage and ‘adopt don’t shop’ this Adoptober."

Fox and Badger are a precious brother and sister duo - could you give them the home they deserve? (Image: RSPCA) Research by the RSPCA found that several myths deter people from adopting rescue animals.

These include beliefs that rescue animals have behaviour problems due to trauma, come with complicated medical histories, and that it's easier to train a puppy or kitten than a rescue animal.

Ms Jagoda addresses these myths, stating that rescue animals are assessed, treated, and rehabilitated in RSPCA's care, providing more information about them than would usually be available when buying an animal online or from a stranger.

She added: "Countless people incorrectly believe that the behaviour of rescue animals is impossible to change or that they are difficult to train.

"However, the reality is that when adopting a rescue animal, care teams will have usually already started teaching new skills and behaviour and will also be able to advise new adopters on what methods work best - including the animal’s favourite tasty treat.

"So adopting actually puts you ahead of the training game."

Sweet Suzie has been cared for by the RSPCA Cat Rehoming Hub since February (Image: RSPCA) Addressing the myth that black cats are unlucky, Ms Jagoda said: "Black cats are often associated with superstitions and some people believe they don’t look good in photos which sadly means it can take longer for a black cat in a rescue centre to find a home.

"In truth, black cats won’t bring you bad luck - but they do need a forever home.

"The colour of an animal’s fur makes no difference to how much love they have to give.

Thumbelina is looking for caring owners (Image: RSPCA) "If you can bring some magic into their lives they are sure to bring some love into yours - so they might just make your lucky day."

Anyone interested in adopting a rescue pet can visit the RSPCA's 'Find A Pet' webpage.

For those unable to adopt, the RSPCA suggests other ways to help, such as donating or volunteering at local centres and branches.