In Eskişehir’s Tepebaşı district, a shelter area set up for stray cats was recently removed by municipal teams following a complaint, and local residents and animal lovers have raised concerns about what happened next
What Happened
According to local news reports, Odunpazarı Municipality removed several cat houses that had been positioned on streets where community cats were being fed and sheltered by residents.
The removals were carried out after complaints were made about environmental cleanliness, hygiene issues, unpleasant odours, and pests. Municipal teams acted on these complaints and collected the cat shelters from the streets concerned.
Impact on the Cats
Following the removal of the shelters, it was reported that cats living in these areas including mothers with kittens were left without any form of cover. Animal welfare supporters expressed concern that the shelters had provided basic protection for the cats, especially vulnerable young animals.
Those caring for the cats stated that the shelters had been placed to meet a practical need and that their removal left the animals exposed on the streets.
Municipal Position
According to the reports, municipal officials indicated that the action was taken in response to resident complaints and as part of efforts to address street cleanliness and environmental concerns. The municipality stated that it aims to balance public hygiene considerations with the presence of street animals in residential areas.
A Wider Discussion
This incident has highlighted an ongoing issue faced by many cities in Türkiye:
how to manage the presence of community cats in shared public spaces while addressing differing expectations among residents.
Animal welfare advocates argue that removing shelters without providing alternatives creates additional risks for street animals, particularly kittens, and call for planned, hygienic and managed solutions rather than the complete removal of existing shelters.
Conclusion
The removal of street cat shelters in Odunpazarı has drawn attention to the fragile conditions faced by community animals living outdoors. As discussions continue, residents and animal welfare supporters alike are calling for approaches that protect animal welfare while also addressing environmental and neighbourhood concerns.
Makes me livid this cruelty and abuse when they could be doing something positive instead of acting like mindless bullies. Work with charities and interested parties on a spay/neuter campaign and the difference would be seen within that area every year. Unfortunately these days the human race disgusts me more and more!