Castration obligation in Stendal: A step against the cat elend

Castration obligation in Stendal: A step against the cat elend

The introduction of a castration obligation for free-range cats in Stendal triggered controversial discussions, but the hoped-for progress failed to do so in the first year. The animal fates, which are often collected in urban animal shelters such as the Altmärkische Animal Protection Association in Stendal, show the urgency of an effective solution.

The challenge of stray cats

Many stray cats live in the Stendal region, often hidden in remote places such as barns or abandoned buildings. This uncontrolled reproduction can quickly lead to an enormous increase in animal population. According to the city administration, a single cat could produce up to 1,000 offspring in just four years if there is no measure for regulation.

regulation by laws

In order to meet this animal welfare crisis, a regulation came into force on August 1, 2022, the cat owners obliged to have their free-range cats born after this date. In addition, the animals must be marked with a transponder chip and recorded in a pet register. If the regulation is not complied with, a fine of up to 5,000 euros can be imposed, but so far the city has never applied.

The way to improve living conditions

Sophie Krüger, the chairwoman of the animal welfare association, emphasizes the need to have older cats neutered. Despite the legal regulation, the effectiveness has not yet been noticeable, which Krüger considers as unfortunate. She pleads for a common commitment of the cat owners in order to achieve the goal of a healthy habitat for the animals and reduce their hardship cases.

Community responsibility and support

In the Stendal Borstel animal shelter, the slogan "castration is animal welfare" is held up. The overcrowding of animal shelters and the bad living conditions with which many strays fight are to be reduced. Krüger is grateful for the support of the community, which enables stray cats to record and address their needs. The increasing life maintenance costs for animals require more conscious use of animal husbandry to reduce the exposure and hand over animals.

The fate of the cats in Stendal reflects a broader challenge: the responsible handling of pets. The development of strategies to combat stray cat population is crucial to improve living conditions for both animals and people in the community. The path to a stable solution takes time, patience and, above all, joint action.

- Nag