Left Behind

The life of a street cat usually begins with a human decision. Perhaps a formerly beloved pet has been abandoned by its owner, who has gone on holiday or moved home. Or they may have felt that the daily care and veterinary expenses had become too much of a burden.

Some abandoned cats adapt to outdoor life. Along with their offspring, they form colonies and establish groups around homes, businesses, and parks. Those who are more attached to humans may live indoors with a family if given the chance.

The scale of the problem is evident in many countries. In Spain alone, for example, shelters collect tens of thousands of stray cats every year. Animal welfare organizations try to address the issue by carrying out adoption work and managing cat colonies. Cats are vaccinated, microchipped and sterilized so that they can more easily find a new home. Additionally, municipalities have developed trap-neuter-return programs to sterilize stray cats. Reducing new births helps to keep populations under control.

A couple of years ago, Spain’s legislation took a further step. The Ley 7/2023 was established to protect the rights and physical well-being of companion animals. However, as it lacks the necessary protocols and regulatory measures, it cannot take full effect. Nevertheless, it has contributed to more cats being sterilized and moved into safe homes – away from the streets.