They might have a reputation for being unlucky, but the RSPCA is hoping the fortunes will change for some of the black cats in its care.

Half the those cared for by the charity are either black or monochrome moggies so, to mark National Black Cat Day today, local shelters are trying to help find them loving new homes.

From vampires to ghosts, monsters, and scary film villains, the black cat is also a traditional image at Halloween. In UK folklore they are a symbol of bad luck but despite common myths there is nothing superstitious about black cats.

Alice Potter, the RSPCA’s cat welfare expert explains: “Our centres have been getting into the spirit of Halloween in an effort to encourage people to rehome black cats.

“They won’t bring you good luck or bad luck, they are not prone to living with witches or associated with dark magic - these black cats just need a loving home. Whether named after a vampire slayer, the cat from Sabrina the teenage witch, or some other Halloween themed name, these cats have all had a tough time recently and need to find their forever homes."

Staff at RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre in Castle Way decorated the cattery in a spectacular spooky theme especially for two black cats Trick and Magic.

The one-year-old cats were brought into Harmsworth Animal Hospital in August as they were part of a colony of cats who had been left to fend for themselves and weren’t doing very well.

Trick had to have his leg amputated due to a severe leg injury though it is not known how he suffered the injury. Having three legs hasn’t stopped him living his life to the full, playing chase with his friend Magic, pretending to hunt down ghouls and monsters and enjoying a spot of catnip.

Trick and Magic are both quite timid and need a quiet environment so they can settle, gain their confidence and learn to trust people again.

They would need to be the only animals in the home and can live with families but preferably with children aged 10 or over who understand that the pair may need their space.

The RSPCA currently has 418 black and black and white cats across its centres which is 50% of all cats at the national RSPCA.

Magic and Trick are hoping for a purrfect home together this Halloween. If you would like to adopt these rescue cats call RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre on 0300 123 0751.