cat poisoning — The recent mass cat poisoning at Sfalangiotissa cemetery in Limassol has prompted urgent calls for a police investigation. Approximately 30 cats were discovered dead, with evidence pointing towards deliberate poisoning, including poison bait found at the scene.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
- “All evidence suggests a horrific death as foam appeared around their mouths, whilst poison baits were also found,” the organisation stated in a public release.
The Animal Action Group of the Movement of Ecologists – Citizens’ Cooperation, a local animal welfare organisation, reported that animal carers stumbled upon the bodies of the cats, many of whom were displaying distressing signs of poisoning, including foam around their mouths. Four kittens were rescued and taken to a veterinary clinic in critical condition, although two of them sadly did not survive.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
“All evidence suggests a horrific death as foam appeared around their mouths, whilst poison baits were also found,” the organisation stated in a public release.
Photographic evidence indicates that some of the deceased cats were wearing collars, which suggests they may have belonged to local residents. The Animal Action Group highlighted the ongoing issue of abandonment, claiming that the cats are primarily the result of neglect by the community.
Animal carers, who have been feeding these cats at their own expense, expressed their heartbreak and outrage over the incident. They described their emotions as a mix of sadness, disgust, anger, and indignation, reflecting a deep concern for the welfare of the animals they had been caring for.
The Limassol Animal Police have been alerted and are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The Animal Action Group noted that similar incidents of poisoning have occurred in the area before, raising alarm within the community.
Citing Article 4 of Cyprus’s Animal Protection and Welfare Law, the organisation pointed out that intentionally administering poison to animals without just cause is illegal and carries severe penalties. They are advocating for stricter enforcement of these laws to protect vulnerable animals.
Anthi Mouzouri, the Animal Coordinator for the Ecologists Movement, expressed the need for societal change, stating, “We live in 2025 and there must finally be respect and love towards animals. The way a society treats its animals reflects its true character.”
The organisation is urging a full investigation of the incident and has called for ongoing monitoring of the area to prevent further acts of cruelty. They encourage anyone with information related to the poisoning to reach out to the authorities, highlighting the importance of community involvement in safeguarding animal welfare.
