Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

The large number of surrendered and feral cats is a big animal welfare problem all over the world. Populations of feral cats arise through a large number of unwanted cats which can lead to surrender of these, through cats allowed to roam free outside which can lead to the owner losing these and through the reproduction that occurs amongst these surrendered or lost cats.

One aim of this study is to give an account of this problem. It is however difficult to draw general conclusions about these populations of cats since studies all over the world has been carried out on different types of populations, during different conditions and different periods of time. The welfare of many of these cats is presumably low because they are exposed to risks as disease, starvation, climate, traffic, other animals and humans. Even when it comes to other consequences as risks of infection, predation and competition over resources it is difficult to draw general conclusions from the studies that have been carried out. This uncertainty mixed with strong emotions and views of these cats contribute to an intensive debate over how the problem with unowned cats should be managed. Conclusions from studies of different methods for managing the problem shows that a combination of measures is often needed, decided after the prevailing conditions. To spread information to cat owners as a preventive measure is an important part of the management of this problem.

An account is also given for how the problem can be managed according to Swedish legislation. This gives different possibilities of managing the problem which has resulted in further uncertainty as can be seen in legal cases and a varying choice of management from authorities. Limitations in using euthanasia of unowned and feral cats also imply difficulties in pursuing that sort of control over populations to a greater extent.

The other aim of this study is to account for how a number of municipalities in Skåne County have perceived and managed the problem until January 1, 2009 when the animal welfare control was moved to the County Administrative Board. The results show that the problem has been perceived different between as well as within municipalities and some possible reasons for this is given. Cooperation with associations that work with these cats has often been carried out but is described in a varying way, from well functioning to problematic. A few municipalities have also conducted campaigns with information to cat owners. All of these have experienced the effect as good.

Other conclusions of this study are that the level of knowledge concerning cats and the problems that can arise needs to be improved and that a well functioning cooperation is needed to manage the problem.