WORLD Spay Day was observed on Tuesday, February 25 and to create awareness around this day, the Feline Connection, a dedicated cat advocacy (registered non-profit), sounded the alarm on the critical issue of homeless cats in communities.

The day is aimed at decreasing stray pet populations by increasing awareness of the importance of spaying and neutering programmes.

Janine Kyle of the Feline Connection said the organisation emphasised the importance of TSR (Trap-Sterilise-Release) programmes. She highlighted the urgent need for increased education, awareness and community compassion towards stray and feral cats.

Also read: Artists paint pictures for feral cats

“World Spay Day serves as a global reminder of the power of spaying and neutering to save animals’ lives.

Spaying and neutering are not only responsible actions but also acts of profound compassion. By preventing unwanted litters, we alleviate the burden on shelters and reduce the number of cats facing homelessness and euthanasia.

“The day recognises that failure to sterilise companion pets is responsible for millions of unwanted animals living on the streets without homes or food or being killed in shelters all over the world.

“The benefits of sterilisation go beyond population control, providing various health benefits and reducing unfavourable behaviours,” explained Kyle.

She also shared how people can ease the plight of these ‘forgotten felines’.

“People can volunteer by assisting with trapping (training will be given), transporting or caring for cats. We also welcome financial donations or sponsorships. They contribute to support TSR programmes, medical care and supplies.

Also read: Cat lover on a mission to save stray cats

“The public can also help by hosting a fundraiser or donations of cat food, carriers and traps. Alternatively, people can foster kittens needing care or cats in recovery from surgery / sterilisation.

Below, Kyle also shares some facts about cats:

– If cats are removed from their outdoor home, it creates a territorial opening, or vacuum, that will not remain empty.
– Removing cats from an area may cause a temporary decrease in the cat population, but more cats WILL take their place – and it won’t take long.
– This phenomenon is known in conservation studies as the Vacuum Effect. The Vacuum Effect has been observed in many species, not just cats.
– Catching and removing (or killing) cats is therefore futile. It is an expensive, deadly cycle which yields no long-term benefits.
– Trap-Sterilise-Return (TSR) is the only way to stabilise cat populations. It is the humane, effective approach to community cats and is sound public policy.

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