How 80 Cats Were Sterilized in Just 5 Days
From May 18th to 22nd, Animal Zone International (AZI), in collaboration with the Municipality of Amorgos, successfully carried out a five-day sterilization program for stray cats across the island.
In total, 80 stray cats, 36 females and 44 male, from most villages in Amorgos were sterilized. This essential program is part of our ongoing commitment to animal welfare in Greece and to maintaining a healthy balance between the local community and the island’s animal population.
Beyond Sterilization: Comprehensive Care for Stray Cats
Sterilization was just the first step. Every cat was also:
Vaccinated against rabies
Treated for parasites (anti-parasitic care)
Microchipped in accordance with Greek law
Some cats required urgent medical attention:
A cat from Aegiali with a mass in its ear underwent successful surgical removal.
Another from Aegiali with severe stomatitis remained at our shelter for ongoing treatment.
A cat from Katapola with a large cheek abscess received treatment and has since returned to its area.
Sadly, for three cats suffering from advanced cancer in the nose and ears, euthanasia was the only humane option.
All other cats were safely released back into their neighborhoods, healthier and protected.
Behind the scenes of our May sterilization program
A Community Effort
This sterilization program would not have been possible without the dedication and teamwork of many people and organizations.
We extend our deepest thanks to:
Dr. Andrianna Alexandropoulou, our veterinarian, and her assistant Evangelia Gatsinou, who worked tirelessly for five days straight.
Blue Star Ferries, who generously provided free transportation for our vet, always supporting the needs of our island.
The incredible volunteers who “plowed the island,” climbing endless stairs to capture and release cats in every corner of Amorgos.
The local residents, each contributing in their own way.
Special thanks to Lilie Clevede, who for years has been caring for the cats of Aegiali with unwavering dedication.
Why Cat Sterilization Programs Are Essential
Stray cat population control is crucial for both animal health and community well-being. Cats can reach breeding age as early as 5-6 months and can have two to three litters per year. Without intervention, populations can grow to unsustainable levels, leading to:
Malnutrition
Common infectious diseases
Increased suffering among cats
Tension between residents and stray animals
By keeping the population under control, we can:
Provide adequate food and medical care
Reduce the spread of disease
Prevent cats from being seen as pests
Create a healthier, more harmonious environment for both people and animals
Help Us Continue Our Mission
This program was a success, but it’s only one step in our ongoing mission to protect and care for animals in Amorgos.
💛 If you have already donated, thank you for making this possible. Your generosity gives us the resources to act quickly when animals are in need.
If you would like to help us continue sterilization efforts and provide veterinary care for stray animals, please consider making a donation to Animal Zone International.