The welfare charity iCatCare has launched a new framework, designed to support shelters and other programmes with cat population management.
‘Beyond Firefighting’ proposes a staged approach to the situation, encouraging users to consider practical decisions and proactive steps that they can take.
The framework builds upon 18 months of comprehensive research from people across the cat welfare sector. Researchers were based across Cyprus, Greece, Portugal and Australia.
The project has been led by Harry Eckman, global advisor for cat population management at International Cat Care.
It is intended as an alternative to what iCatCare describes as ‘short-term fixes’, such as neutering drives and rescue efforts. The charity believes efforts should address ‘deeper upstream structures’ which cause cats to end up on the street.
Through its international approach, iCatCare hopes to create long-term, evidence-based strategies that bring consistency to fragmented systems.
Mr Eckman said: “We learned from our research, and years of experience, that individuals and organisations working in cat welfare constantly face the same challenges. Constantly "firefighting" - working reactively to deal with the daily crises, emergencies, and animals in need.
“This framework is a tool to help people and organisations out of that cycle of reaction and response. It provides a way of looking at and understanding what kind of work is needed, by asking the right questions, at the right time.”
The resource can be accessed
here.
Image © SanechkaSparrow/Shutterstock.com
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
