The town of Terrassa in northeastern Spain has temporarily banned the adoption and fostering of black cats from October 1 to November 10 to prevent their use in potentially harmful Halloween rituals. This decision, announced by the local animal welfare service, aims to protect black cats from being adopted for superstitious or decorative purposes linked to occult practices during the Halloween period. Authorities cited concerns raised by animal protection groups about cats being mistreated or used as props in such rituals.

The ban will allow exceptions only if adoption requests are thoroughly justified and assessed to ensure the safety and reliability of the applicant. After November 10, the normal adoption process will resume, with the possibility of similar measures in future years. Terrassa, which has over 9,800 cats, took this precautionary step to address the increased demand for black cats around Halloween and to safeguard animal welfare.