An estimated 1 million cats prowl the streets of Cyprus as...

Cyprus faces a feral cat crisis, with estimates of 1 million cats on the island, prompting calls for sterilization efforts to manage the population.

Cyprus has an estimated 1 million feral cats, roughly one cat per resident, leading to concerns about public health and animal welfare.
Activists argue that the actual feral cat population could be significantly higher than official estimates, highlighting the necessity for immediate action.
Local officials are considering mass sterilization programs as a humane solution to control the burgeoning feral cat population across the island.
The feral cats pose challenges for local wildlife and public health, prompting debates among citizens, activists, and government officials on effective management strategies.
Current estimates show that in some areas, the number of feral cats exceeds the human population, raising alarms over the ecological balance in Cyprus.

Why It Matters

The feral cat population in Cyprus has implications for both wildlife conservation and public health, as unchecked numbers can disrupt local ecosystems. Residents and authorities must navigate the balance between animal welfare and environmental preservation. Future actions, particularly around sterilization initiatives, will be critical in determining the sustainability of both the feral cat population and local biodiversity.