Cat Colonies in Tenerife: Managed Care for Feral Cats

Tenerife is not only home to stunning landscapes and volcanic beaches but also shelters various colonies of feral cats. These colonies are carefully managed under official programs like the "Gestión de Colonias de Gatos" (Cat Colony Management) coordinated by local municipalities such as El Rosario. These initiatives are aimed at protecting animal welfare while maintaining environmental balance.

Feral Cats in Nature

Many feral cats in Tenerife roam freely in natural areas. For example, this black cat was spotted comfortably hidden within a dense bush near a cat colony enclosure in Radazul.

Black feral cat hidden in green bush in Tenerife

These cats are often shy but are part of monitored groups that receive regular food and health care through the local council’s programs.

Fenced Cat Colony Enclosures

In areas such as Radazul, specially fenced enclosures have been installed to provide secure zones for feral cats. These are equipped with shaded structures, small shelters, and food stations.

Cat colony enclosure in Radazul with shelter and shade

The purpose of these spaces is to offer protection and controlled access to food and care, managed exclusively by authorized personnel.

Official Sign and Rules

The enclosures display informative signs outlining the responsibilities and restrictions in managing these colonies. This one is from El Rosario municipality:

El Rosario sign for cat colony management in Tenerife

The cat colony is monitored by the Ayuntamiento de El Rosario.
Abandoning animals is strictly prohibited.
Only authorized personnel may feed and care for the animals.

Why These Colonies Matter

These managed cat colonies are crucial for maintaining balance between feral animal welfare and urban or rural ecosystems. By controlling feeding, sterilization, and health checks, the spread of disease and overpopulation is minimized.

Responsible Animal Care in Tenerife

The municipalities of Tenerife, especially in places like El Rosario and Radazul, have taken commendable steps in addressing the needs of feral animals without disrupting public or environmental health. Visitors and locals alike are encouraged to respect these efforts by not feeding stray cats and reporting any animal abandonment to local authorities.