**Applications Open for Stray Cat Sterilisation Scheme**
The Veterinary Services of Cyprus have announced that applications are now open for the 2026 islandwide stray cat sterilisation scheme. Local authorities, animal welfare groups, and veterinarians interested in participating in this initiative have until June 26 to express their interest.
The sterilisation scheme aims to address the growing issue of stray cat populations across the island through humane and organized measures. Interested parties must submit their applications at district veterinary offices, as the program is designed to involve registered entities rather than individual caregivers. Specifically, individuals and unregistered volunteer groups caring for stray cats are not eligible to apply directly; they must collaborate with a local authority or a registered animal welfare organization to participate.
Once the application period concludes, the Veterinary Services will publish a list of participating organizations and local authorities on their official website. This transparency aims to ensure that all stakeholders are informed about the entities involved in the sterilisation efforts.
In addition to local authorities and animal welfare groups, private sector veterinarians are also encouraged to join the initiative. However, participation is limited to those veterinarians who operate properly equipped clinics capable of performing surgeries and providing necessary post-operative care for the cats. The Veterinary Services have emphasized the importance of distributing sterilisation procedures fairly among the participating clinics, regardless of the number of veterinarians employed at each facility.
Veterinarians who do not own a clinic can still take part in the scheme, but they must declare the clinic where the procedures will be conducted and submit a cooperation agreement with that facility. This requirement ensures that all sterilisation procedures are performed in appropriate settings with the necessary resources.
The sterilisation programme is part of ongoing efforts by the Veterinary Services and various stakeholders to manage the stray cat population in Cyprus effectively. By implementing a structured approach to sterilisation, the initiative seeks to reduce the number of stray cats humanely, ultimately benefiting both the animals and the communities they inhabit.
As the application deadline approaches, local authorities and animal welfare organizations are encouraged to consider their involvement in this important initiative. The Veterinary Services are hopeful that the collaboration will lead to a significant positive impact on the stray cat population across the island.