(Istanbul, Turkey)
Istanbul has a huge population of stray cats which seems to get larger every year. For the most part, many of these cats are really friendly, playful animals. However, sometimes these cats can get a little out of hand and become a source of annoyance for some people.
Don't feed the Cats
It is important to know that many of Istanbul's stray cats aren't afraid of humans. In fact, many will boldly walk up to anyone in hopes of a scratch behind the ear or a few scraps of food. Stray cats particularly love to congregate and beg for food around outdoor restaurants and cafes. Many tourists tend to feed the stray cats while dining which only leads to more cats gathering around their table. Every so often, a cat might decide to jump into a tourist's lap to try and snatch more food for the plates on the table. To avoid all this tourists should either feed the cats after they have finished eating or not at all.
Comments
Lol! Thanks for the advice, sis.
We have a few stray cats in Bangkok, but it's mostly dogs - everywhere :)
We have dogs also. In fact, the city is known to pick up the dogs, vaccinate them, and put them right back on the streets. The cats are a huge issue because they tend to breed like rabbits.
ooo i see girls, you dont like cats! do not be afraid of them at all as they feel the attitude toward them,if you dont like it it will never annoy you! and do not invent false problems, just let cats in Istanbul be as they are- the kind of tradition or symbols of the city. and all your negatives plese leave in home!
Wow that's interesting? As a citizen of Istanbul I always feed cats and they don't jump or scratch? Maybe you're a little bit overreacting.
I think you mistook her article. She clearly states don't feed the cats if you don't want to be bothered with so many coming to your table at once.
Instead of talking about a problem DO something instead.
Volunteer and contribute to the Animal Welfare groups in Turkey that practice Neuter/Release. This is a humane way to stop the overpopulation of cats. This will help keep the number of homeless, hungry and helpless cats and kittens you find all over.
Make a Difference in the world!
Great article! I have emailed you and hoping you will get back to me soon
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