For Visitors

Help a Stray DURING YOUR STAY: How Tourists Can Make a Difference for Cats in Paros and Antiparos

A person petting a cat.

Visiting Paros and Antiparos this holiday season? These islands aren't just known for their stunning beaches and charming villages; they're also home to many stray cats in need of care.  

Animal Action Greece has been dedicated to enhancing the welfare of these cats through a comprehensive sterilization and welfare program. The core of this project revolves around CNVR: Catching, Neutering, Vaccinating, and Returning the cats to their familiar habitats. As you enjoy your time on these beautiful islands, we invite you to join us in making a difference for these animals. 

To support our mission, you can report unneutered cats and kittens using our form. Neutered cats are marked by a distinctive clipped ear tip. By reporting unneutered cats, you help us identify and manage cat colonies that need attention. Maintaining control over the cat population is crucial for ensuring they receive the best quality of life and care. 

REPORT UNNEUTERED CATS

Want to do more? Here’s how you can make a positive impact, broken down into three simple categories: Caring, Volunteering, and Supporting.

Caring for cats

  • Number one.

    Serve Fresh Water

    In the heat of Greece, fresh water is a necessity. Set out a bowl of water in a shaded spot to help stray cats stay hydrated.

  • Number two.

    Feed Dry Cat Food  

    Avoid feeding cats human food, which can cause health issues. Instead, provide dry cat food. Check with your accommodation to ensure feeding on the premises is allowed, or choose a public space.

  • Number three.

    Drive Safely

    Cats often roam around restaurants and trash areas, especially at night. Be mindful while driving to avoid accidents. 

  • Number four.

    Check on Kittens

    If you see kittens, ensure they are truly abandoned before intervening. The mother cat may just be out hunting and could return soon. 

  • Number five.

     Respond to Emergencies

    If a cat appears sick or injured, take it to a local vet clinic for immediate care.

Volunteering and Engagement

  • Number six.

    Ask Locals for Help

    Engaging with locals can provide valuable insights. If you spot a sick cat in an area with locals or businesses, try asking around for information first. Often, these cats might already be receiving care from local residents. However, if you can't find helpful information or if there's uncertainty, prioritize the cat's well-being and consider taking it to a vet for treatment.

  • Number seven.

    Trap Unneutered Cats

    If you see a cat without a clipped ear, it likely needs to be neutered. Contact local animal organizations to assist in trapping the cat for veterinary care.

  • Number eight.

     Foster a Cat

    If your accommodation permits, consider fostering a cat or kitten during your stay. This can provide temporary care and make a significant difference in the animal's well-being.

  • Number nine.

    Volunteer Your Time

    Join local efforts in feeding cat colonies, helping with CNVR: Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return (also known as TNR: Trap, Neuter, Return), or transporting cats to the airport or port.

Supporting local efforts

  • Number ten.

    Adopt a Cat

    Consider adopting a stray cat and providing it with a forever home. It's a meaningful way to make a lasting impact.

  • Number eleven.

    Escort Cats

    If you're able to transport pets, volunteer to escort a cat to its new home, ensuring it reaches its destination safely.

  • Number twelve.

    Make a Donation

    Support local animal welfare organizations by donating money, supplies, or food. Your contributions can help sustain their vital work.

  • Number thirteen.

    Report Animal Abuse

    If you witness any form of animal abuse, report it immediately by calling 100. Your actions can help protect these animals.

Report unneutered cat

About Animal Action Greece’s work in Paros and Antiparos:

Animal Action Greece collaborates with local animal welfare groups on Paros and Antiparos to enhance the welfare of stray cats. In the past year, the team has sterilized over XX cats and provided essential health treatments to more than XX cats. These efforts aim to reduce the stray cat population and improve their health, positively impacting the community. The initiative includes comprehensive CNVR programs and partnerships with local veterinary clinics, ensuring these cats receive the necessary care. Supported by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, the project sets a benchmark for humane animal care in Greece. 

For more details, you can visit the full article here.