12-Year Study of Street Cats Shows How To Keep Population Levels Under Control

An increase in the number of free-roaming street cats is a worldwide issue.

In fact, stray cats are one of the most invasive animals on the planet.

Despite the fact that they represent a health danger to humans, destroy enormous numbers of animals, and suffer from poor welfare, most people are hesitant to eradicate them with the same ferocity as we do rats and cockroaches.

Cats being Trapped, Neutered, and Returned

(Photo : SAJJAD HUSSAIN/AFP via Getty Images))

TNR (Trapped, Neutered, and Returned) is now the most common population-control approach, in which cats are trapped, neutered, and returned to the same site.

Professor Eyal Klement and Dr. Idit Gunther of the Koret School of Veterinary Medicine at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU) conducted the study, which is the first to look at the effects of different regimens over a 12-year period.

"Despite the fact that this strategy has been used in many regions of the world, there was conflicting data about its success in lowering cat numbers and no firm evidence about its usefulness in reducing cat-related nuisances or enhancing their wellbeing," Klement stated, as per the Verve Times.

Over three four-year periods, the study concentrated on one Israeli city (Rishon LeZion) and tested several population-control measures.

In the second experiment, the researchers conducted an intense neutering campaign in half of the city's fifty zones, while the remaining zones acted as a control group in which the cats were left alone.

During the third session, the whole cat population of the city was neutered.

Neutering only half of the city zones did not diminish the cat population, according to the study.

This surprising result, according to the researchers, is due to the influx of unneutered cats into the area.

In the third wave, the cat population was reduced by 7% annually, although there was a resurgence in the number of kittens, most likely owing to an improvement in their survival due to decreased competition from neutered, less aggressive cats.

Cats that haven't been neutered are more territorial than cats that have been neutered.

"They thrive and take over once they enter into an area with neutered cats," Klement stated.

Read more: When Is the Right Time to Neuter Your Dog? Recent Study Answers the Question

Pros and cons of neutering cats

Neutering eliminates the possibility of pregnancy.

Letting your cat have litter contributes to pet overpopulation, which is a severe concern, as per Companion Animal Medical Center.

It's not as simple as you may assume to find homes for your new family members.

Even if you decide to keep the kittens, you'll have to pay for immunizations, parasite treatment, toys, and food for many animals.

In addition to expenditures, the health of the mother might be in peril during birth.

Some new moms may experience major challenges with the delivery of their kittens, and they may even develop health concerns while nursing.

All of these issues can be prevented if your cat is spayed.

Neutering your pet will result in a cleaner, calmer animal.

Another advantage of neutering your cat is that it can lead to a calmer, and sometimes cleaner, environment.

Your cat may be calmer and less prone to cat cries and the constant urge to find a mate. 

A neutered cat has lost the desire to pursue and serenade ladies. Plus, he never longer considers the need to mark his territory by peeing all over the house and yard.

Neutered cats are also less difficult to get along with. They have a kinder, friendlier temperament.

Sterilization is achieved by neutering.

Your cat will be sterilized as a result of neutering. If you want to breed your animal, don't get him neutered since he won't be able to reproduce.

His look alters once he gets neutered.

Because his testicles are no longer there, your cat will appear different.

Related article: Big Dogs at Higher Risk of Joint Problems If Neutered Early