With a love for cuddles and having their tummies tickled it seems unlikely these furry friends could be evil omens or harbingers of doom.

But according to a Suffolk rescue charity, superstitious attitudes could be preventing black cats from finding their forever home.

The RSPCA’s Suffolk East and Ipswich branch, in Martlesham, has eight black cats and kittens looking for new owners – but claims “people are too spooked by their black fur to want to take them on”.

“All the other colours and patterns we have in the cattery get chosen in a heartbeat, but our black, shiny pearls get given the cold shoulder as some potential adopters turn a blind eye and we can’t understand why,” said Rebecca Fox, deputy centre manager.

“We can only assume it’s because they are deemed unlucky as superstitious folk claim that all black cats bring ill fortune and bad health to whoever crosses their path.”

Historically, some cultures have looked upon black cats as symbols of evil, misfortune or witchcraft. The early pilgrim settlers in America, for instance, considered the creatures part demon, part sorcery and would punish anyone caught owning one. During the middle ages, superstitions led people to kill black cats.

In other cultures, however, their apparent superpowers are cast in a more positive light. Black cats are considered good fortune in many parts of the world, including most of England, while in ancient Egypt the goddess Bast was personified by a black cat. In Japan, single women reportedly believe owning one will bring them many suitors.

As for the clowder of cats the RSPCA is looking to rehome, it seems doubtful whether they possess supernatural abilities – good or bad.

Kong, Ferdie, Daisy and Peaches, as some of them have been named, are said to be more interested in playing with toys than dabbling in the dark arts.

People who would like to adopt one of the cats or learn more about rehoming are invited to contact the branch on 0300 999 7321 or email here.