**Proposal to Microchip Sterilised Stray Cats Gains Support in Cyprus**
A proposal to implement microchipping for stray cats sterilised under Cyprus’ nationwide sterilisation programme has garnered significant backing from various government services and animal welfare organisations. This initiative was the focal point of a coordination meeting led by Environment and Animal Welfare Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou, which took place on Thursday following a letter from the Cyprus Voice for Animals (CVA) federation.
The meeting brought together representatives from several key entities, including the veterinary services, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, the animal police, and various animal welfare organisations. The primary aim was to enhance the effectiveness of stray cat sterilisation programmes and to foster better collaboration among the involved parties.
Currently, approximately 2,200 cats are sterilised annually through the Cyprus sterilisation programme. The meeting participants acknowledged the vital contributions made by volunteers and animal welfare groups in the trap-neuter-return (TNR) schemes. These volunteers are instrumental in the processes of capturing, transporting, caring for, and ultimately returning stray cats to their natural environments.
During the meeting, Commissioner Theodosiou presented several measures outlined in the action plan for the welfare of companion animals, which has been submitted to the relevant ministries. Among these measures are proposals for increased funding for cat sterilisation, the introduction of a similar sterilisation programme for dogs, and the development of digital tools aimed at improving the management of stray animals.
A significant concern raised during the discussions was the lack of electronic identification for cats sterilised under the current programme. This absence complicates tracking and managing stray cat populations effectively. In response, participants expressed strong support for the proposal to make microchipping compulsory for all sterilised stray cats. They also advocated for the creation of a digital platform dedicated to stray animal management.
The veterinary services highlighted the necessity of aligning these initiatives with upcoming European regulations concerning owned and stray animals, noting that new requirements could potentially affect the number of sterilisations conducted.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the recognition of TNR volunteers and the potential establishment of training programmes to better equip them for their roles. The ongoing coordination efforts aim to enhance the effectiveness of sterilisation programmes and improve overall stray animal management across Cyprus.
As the proposal moves forward, it reflects a growing commitment among various stakeholders in Cyprus to address the challenges posed by stray cat populations while ensuring their welfare through effective management and sterilisation strategies.