The coastal town of Albir in Spain has successfully managed its stray cat population through an innovative sterilization program. Since 2015, the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) system has helped control feline numbers humanely and effectively. This year alone, 210 cats received treatment before returning to their colonies.
The program represents a compassionate approach to animal welfare that benefits both cats and residents. With over 1,100 strays sterilized since the program began, Albir demonstrates how communities can address overpopulation without resorting to harmful methods. The initiative combines municipal support, volunteer dedication, and veterinary expertise.
Fewer Cats Through Humane Control
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The streets of Albir now have noticeably fewer cats roaming around. This reduction comes from years of consistent sterilization efforts. The program prevents unwanted litters while allowing existing cats to live peacefully.
Marisa Cortes, Alfaz’s Health and Animal Protection councillor, champions this approach. She emphasizes that TNR is “the most effective and humane method for controlling the colonies.” The results speak for themselves.
Each sterilized cat returns to its familiar territory after recovery. This maintains the colony’s social structure while preventing population growth. Additionally, sterilized cats often display calmer behavior and improved health.
The program targets both male and female cats. Sterilizing females prevents pregnancies, while neutering males reduces fighting and territorial marking. Both procedures contribute to healthier, more stable colonies.
How the TNR System Works
The Trap-Neuter-Return system follows a simple yet effective process. First, volunteers identify and trap stray cats using humane traps. Next, veterinarians perform the sterilization procedures. Finally, cats recover before returning to their colonies.
Eighty authorized volunteers participate in this crucial work. They know the local colonies and can identify which cats need treatment. Their dedication makes the program sustainable and successful.
The town hall allocated €12,000 to support the scheme last year. Additionally, they received a €5,000 grant from Alicante’s provincial council. This funding covers veterinary costs and equipment.
APPA Animal Protection Association plays a vital role too. They coordinate between volunteers, vets, and municipal authorities. This collaboration ensures smooth operations and consistent results.
Colony Management and Feeding Rules
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Managing cat colonies involves more than just sterilization. Proper feeding practices prevent additional problems. Authorized volunteers provide dry food to the colonies regularly. This controlled feeding keeps cats healthy and reduces scavenging.
However, the town hall prohibits leaving food scraps or leftovers for strays. Cortes explains this policy prevents attracting “insects and vermin, which generates all kinds of problems.” Proper feeding maintains cleaner, healthier environments for everyone.
The volunteers monitor colony health and report any issues. They notice sick cats, new arrivals, or other concerns. This oversight helps maintain the program’s effectiveness long-term.
Why Fewer Cats Benefits Everyone
Having fewer cats through humane control creates multiple benefits. Residents enjoy cleaner streets and less noise from fighting cats. The cats themselves live healthier, longer lives. Moreover, the community demonstrates compassion and responsibility.
Since the program’s 2015 inception, over 1,100 cats have been sterilized. This impressive number represents years of consistent effort. The results prove that humane population control works.
Other Spanish towns now look to Albir as a model. The program shows how municipalities can address stray animal issues effectively. It balances animal welfare with community needs perfectly.
The success in Albir proves that fewer cats doesn’t mean no cats. Instead, it means healthier, happier feline communities coexisting peacefully with human residents.
