In Terrassa, a town near Barcelona, authorities have temporarily banned the adoption and fostering of black cats from October 1 to November 10 to prevent their potential misuse during Halloween. This measure aims to protect the cats from being harmed, killed, or used as props in superstitious rituals or decorations, as adoption requests for black cats tend to spike around Halloween for these reasons. Animal welfare groups and local officials expressed concern over the risks posed by such practices and emphasized the need for caution.

Exceptions to the ban may be granted if applicants have a reliable history and can guarantee the cat’s safety. The town, which is home to nearly 10,000 cats, plans to resume normal adoption procedures after Halloween and may consider similar bans in the future to safeguard animal welfare during this period.