Anni Anete Mõisamaa, head of communication at the MTÜ Varjupaikade, said that more people have surrendered their cats this year. Currently, there are nearly 400 cats in the shelter. This is similar to the numbers from previous years.
Mõisamaa said that the main reasons for surrendering cats are financial difficulties, moving to a smaller apartment, or situations where the cat's owner has passed away. Even when the owner goes abroad for work, the cat is taken to a shelter.
The Estonian Animal Protection Society (ELS) stated that irresponsible pet ownership is making the problem of stray cats worse. Unsterilized and uncontrolled roaming cats increase the number of stray cats. This adds work for shelters and volunteers.
ELS board member Hellika Landsmann said that letting a cat roam outside is dangerous. Cats can get into traffic accidents, be injured, or become ill. Cats may also hunt birds and small animals.
According to ELS, cats do not need to go outside. Cats need toys where they can climb and scratch. Owners should pay attention to their cats. It is recommended to use a limited outdoor area or walk the cat with a leash.