The Limassol Municipality announced the launch of a comprehensive sterilization program for stray cats, presented at a press conference.
The main pillar of the project is the help of volunteers, the participation of animal protection organizations and cooperation with four veterinarians who took over the procedures. According to Mayor Ioannis Armeftis, the program is aimed primarily at improving the living conditions of the animals themselves, reducing the number of new litters, as well as protecting public health and maintaining cleanliness in the city.
The initiative's budget is 40 thousand euros, which will allow the sterilization of approximately 690 stray cats. The mayor emphasized that the project was carefully prepared and received all the necessary approvals from veterinary services. Work will begin in those areas where the problem is especially acute, and then cover the entire city. Although quick results cannot be expected, municipal authorities are confident that regular sterilizations will help stabilize the situation and prevent its deterioration.
The Chairman of the Council of the Pan-Cyprus Veterinary Union, Dimitris Epaminonda, noted that the problem of stray animals requires an integrated approach both at the state level and at the level of individual municipalities. He expressed confidence that Limassol's initiative will become an example for other cities and emphasized the support of the veterinary community.
The head of the Animal Welfare Committee, Stalo Stefanou, recalled that the excessive growth in the population of stray cats is a consequence of the human factor, so the responsibility for solving the problem lies with society. She emphasized the importance of prevention, awareness and teamwork.
The head of the sanitary service, Fanos Panayi, clarified that the program covers the sterilization and treatment of parasites for 450 females and 240 males in the areas of the historical center, Vatkhkya and Garilli Park. Volunteers will be given special coupons: one is given to the veterinarian, the second remains in the animal’s cage for identification, and the third is kept in the municipality’s archives.
It is expected that mass and systematic sterilization in key areas will gradually slow down the population growth and in the future will lead to a noticeable reduction in the number of stray cats in the city.
Source: sigmalive.com
