Benahavis Council has announced a groundbreaking partnership to address feral cats populations humanely throughout the municipality. The council recently met with Eugenio Blanca, President of AGYA (Asociación Gatos y Amigos), to discuss implementing the CER protocol. This collaborative approach includes charity volunteers, local legal advisors, and Councillor Diego Guerrero working together. The CER method stands for Capture, Sterilization, and Return, representing a scientifically-proven approach to managing stray cat colonies.
CER Protocol Offers Scientific Solution for Feral Cats Control
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The CER protocol represents the gold standard in modern feral cat management worldwide. This method involves three carefully planned steps that address both animal welfare and community concerns effectively.
First, trained volunteers safely capture cats from established colonies using humane traps. The process requires patience and expertise to minimize stress on the animals. Next, veterinarians perform sterilization procedures to prevent future breeding cycles permanently.
Finally, the cats return to their original territories where they can live naturally without reproducing. This approach differs significantly from traditional removal or euthanasia methods that often prove ineffective long-term.
Scientific studies demonstrate that CER programs reduce feral cat populations more effectively than other approaches. When cats are simply removed from an area, new cats typically move in to fill the vacant territory. This phenomenon, called the “vacuum effect,” means removal programs often fail to achieve lasting results.
Sterilized cats maintain their territories but cannot produce new litters. Consequently, populations decline naturally through attrition rather than continued breeding. This creates sustainable, long-term population control without ongoing intervention costs.
Community Partnership Ensures Successful Feral Cats Program Implementation
The collaboration between Benahavis Council and AGYA demonstrates how effective feral cat management requires multiple stakeholders working together. Each partner brings essential expertise and resources to the program.
AGYA provides specialized knowledge about cat behavior, trapping techniques, and colony management. Their volunteers understand how to approach feral cats safely while minimizing trauma during capture procedures. Additionally, the organization maintains relationships with veterinarians experienced in sterilization programs.
The council contributes legal authority, funding, and administrative support necessary for large-scale implementation. Municipal involvement ensures the program operates within proper regulatory frameworks and receives adequate resources.
Local legal advisors help navigate complex animal welfare regulations and property rights issues. Their expertise prevents legal complications that could derail the program later.
Councillor Diego Guerrero’s participation demonstrates political commitment to humane animal management. This support helps secure ongoing funding and community acceptance for the initiative.
Long-term Benefits Address Root Causes of Feral Cats Problems
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The council’s recognition of “long-term problems if left untreated” shows sophisticated understanding of feral cat population dynamics. Uncontrolled breeding creates exponential growth that becomes increasingly difficult to manage.
Without intervention, single breeding pairs can produce dozens of offspring within just a few years. These kittens often face high mortality rates due to disease, malnutrition, and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
The CER approach prevents this cycle by eliminating reproduction while allowing existing cats to live naturally. This humane solution addresses community concerns about noise, property damage, and public health while respecting animal welfare principles.
Moreover, sterilized colonies typically become healthier and less disruptive over time, creating better relationships between cats and human residents.
