Nicosia, Cyprus. A proposal to introduce microchips for stray cats sterilised under Cyprus’ nationwide sterilisation programme received broad support from government services and animal welfare organisations on Thursday. The proposal was discussed at a coordination meeting led by Environment and Animal Welfare Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou.
Coordination meeting reviews proposal
The meeting followed a letter from the Cyprus voice for animals federation. Representatives of the veterinary services, the ministry of agriculture, rural development and environment departments, the animal police and animal welfare organisations attended.
Focus on implementation and cooperation
Discussions focused on improving the implementation of stray cat sterilisation programmes and strengthening cooperation among the bodies involved.
Around 2,200 cats are sterilised each year through the Cyprus sterilisation programme.
Role of volunteers in TNR schemes
Participants highlighted the important role of volunteers and animal welfare groups in trap-neuter-return schemes, including capturing, transporting, caring for and returning stray cats to their environment.
Measures in companion animal welfare plan
Theodosiou presented measures included in the action plan for the welfare of companion animals, which has been submitted to the relevant ministries.
The measures include increased funding for cat sterilisation, a similar scheme for dogs, and digital tools aimed at improving stray animal management.
Tracking and identification concerns
Participants said a key issue is that cats sterilised under the current programme are returned without electronic identification, which hinders tracking and management efforts.
They supported proposals for compulsory microchipping of sterilised stray cats and the creation of a digital platform for stray animal management.