Jenny Clarke, President of the Association for the Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), is embarrassed at continually having to ask for help. “It seems we are doing more than our fair share, but we still need more! Money and people.” The ever-increasing feral cat colonies are taking a financial toll on most organisations; if not at a local level, then nationally, there should be alarm bells ringing. Over 930,000 abandoned animals, mostly cats.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: APAA;

The 2025 figure from ICNF (Institute for Conservation and Forestry Portugal) is disturbing, mostly that there are 101,000 abandoned dogs, but over 830,000 felines. They form feral cat colonies by natural instinct. “A café owner has just requested we trap about 30 cats to sterilise and return them.” The communities that suffer are rich in cats but not money.

Jenny is only too aware of the shrugging and the sometimes accusatory vocabulary used when the ‘troops’ go on the march. “We try and catch as many cats in the colony and return them with a little notch on the ear to identify they have been SNiP’d!” Spaying & Neutering Programme is favoured by APAA in their quest to reduce unwanted cats and dogs in local neighbourhoods. “We have been accused of kidnapping animals…” She trails off as she shakes her head in disbelief. “TNR, otherwise known as Trapping, Neutering and Returning, abandoned dogs and feral cats is a vast global attempt to cut the cat population down.”

It is no little wonder that cat-owners know little of their felines' activities, whereas canine-owners are far more concerned about where and what their little darlings are up to. “Chipping and sterilisation are of paramount importance. Word is spreading, and thankfully, communities are beginning to understand the problem and the way to deal with it.” Apart from the monetary problem, feet on the ground is a big ask. “We are looking for people who are fairly active and want to be part of a team. A lot of patience helps! It is a gratifying role, very rarely thanked, but much needed and training given. Money raised, heaven sent.

Visit APAA Charity shops, Dunas do Alvor: Mon-Sat 10.30 am–2pm, Rua Elias Garcia 20, Silves: Mon-Fri 10am–2pm (Sat 1 pm), Silves. Real bargains. Books, gifts. Hand-made jewellery, ornaments. Home-made chutneys, jams, marmalades, pickles and cookies. Glassware, dinner services, cutlery. Clothing. Everything you need for your home or rental. Spoil yourself! All proceeds raised for SNiP and abandoned animals. Having a clear-out? Think APAA.

Jackie’s lunches & all events: events.apaaportugal@gmail.com

Pets:info.apaaportugal@gmail.com Pet Plan ‘Legacy’ mark for Anita

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