NEUTER & RETURN PROGRAMME

Kyrenia Animal Rescue has had a policy to run a Neuter and Return programme in the Girne area since 2004. We believe that neutering an animal is the most beneficial and humane way of controlling the population of unwanted dogs and cats.

The cats and dogs running loose in the community have always been a part of the TRNC. Some people think they form part of its charm, others believe the opposite. Over the years nothing was done to help control the inevitable growth in the numbers of these animals.

After years of experience gained in working and caring for these animals and following research carried out by professional animal welfare organisations worldwide, KAR decided that the Neuter and Return programme was the only way forward that would make a lasting difference, ultimately benefiting the animals and the whole of the community.

Cat Neutering Campaign

Under the ongoing cat neutering campaign, feral cats are trapped and taken to the vet to be neutered. Once they have recovered from the operation, they’re returned to their previous habitat. All cats that have been neutered by KAR have a clipped left ear, an internationally recognised sign which makes them easily identifiable and prevents them from being unnecessarily captured a second time.

Restaurants, hotels and holiday complexes are encouraged to set up ‘Cat Feeding Areas’ where food and water can be      put down for cats in the area. These feeding areas will help stop the cats bothering diners, jumping on tables or going into guest rooms.  If the cats are being fed regularly in the same area, they will not be hungry and won’t need to beg for food. Feeding areas also provide a place that visitors can feed the cats, without upsetting other members of the public who might not like them.

With the cats going to a regular place, it also makes it easier for the KAR cat catching team to capture them for neutering and any other treatment they may need to keep them healthy. Signs and advice are given to those providing the cat feeding areas, and an annual award can be given to each organisation as a reward and an incentive for them to continue the good work.

Please call  Street Paws on 0542 8521981 for details on discounted feral cat neutering.