Benalmadena has launched an ambitious project to improve life for its feral cat population. The city is installing 116 specially designed houses for stray cats, backed by a substantial €300,000 budget. This initiative emerged from the Benalmadena Animal Group (GAB) through participatory budgeting, where citizens help decide municipal spending.
The program represents a progressive approach to managing urban wildlife humanely. Working closely with the Health Department, GAB monitors and sterilizes these cats while providing them safe shelter. This comprehensive strategy positions Benalmadena as the most advanced municipality in Malaga province for animal welfare, demonstrating how communities can coexist peacefully with feral cat colonies.
Comprehensive Program for Feral Cats
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The new shelter program addresses multiple challenges facing feral cats in urban environments. These animals often struggle to find safe, dry places to rest. Bad weather, predators, and human interference create constant stress for street cats.
The 116 box houses provide secure refuges throughout the city. Each shelter offers protection from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. Cats can rest safely without fear of disturbance. This improves their overall health and wellbeing significantly.
GAB President Lucia Lopez emphasizes an important distinction. These shelters aren’t dumping grounds for unwanted pets. Instead, they serve existing stray populations already living on the streets. This clear message helps prevent pet abandonment.
The collaboration between GAB and municipal departments ensures professional oversight. Health officials monitor disease prevention and population control. Meanwhile, GAB volunteers provide daily care and observation. This partnership creates sustainable, long-term solutions.
Legal Protection and Community Benefits
Benalmadena has classified these cat houses as official street furniture. This designation provides important legal protection against vandalism. Anyone damaging or stealing the shelters faces criminal charges.
This legal framework demonstrates the city’s commitment to the program. It sends a clear message that animal welfare matters. Furthermore, it protects the significant public investment in these structures.
The benefits extend beyond helping cats. Properly managed colonies reduce common complaints about strays. Well-fed, sheltered cats make less noise and cause fewer disturbances. They’re also less likely to rummage through garbage.
Additionally, sterilized colonies don’t grow uncontrollably. This prevents overpopulation issues that plague many cities. Residents appreciate seeing healthy, cared-for animals rather than suffering strays.
Sterilization and Registration Success
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GAB’s comprehensive approach includes systematic sterilization of all feral cats. This crucial step prevents endless cycles of breeding. Each sterilized cat receives proper veterinary care during the process.
The organization maintains detailed records of every cat. Registration helps track health issues and population changes. It also ensures no cat gets overlooked for necessary medical treatment.
Sterilization dramatically improves cats’ quality of life. Males stop fighting over territory and mates. Females avoid the stress of constant pregnancies. Both genders become calmer and healthier overall.
The program’s success relies on consistent implementation. GAB volunteers work tirelessly to trap, sterilize, and return cats. Their dedication has made Benalmadena a model for other municipalities.
Setting Provincial Standards
Benalmadena now leads Malaga province in animal welfare practices. Other cities look to their comprehensive approach as inspiration. The combination of shelters, sterilization, and legal protection creates a complete solution.
This leadership position brings pride to residents. It shows their city values compassion and modern thinking. Progressive animal policies often indicate broader social advancement.
The €300,000 investment reflects serious commitment to feral cats. Many municipalities spend far less on animal welfare. Benalmadena’s generous budget enables real, lasting change.
Moving forward, the city plans to monitor and evaluate results. Data collection will help refine the program further. Success here could inspire similar initiatives throughout Spain and beyond. The feral cats of Benalmadena finally have the support they deserve.
