The maintenance of a healthy and stable cat population is extremely important for the prevention of disease and overpopulation.For this reason, staff at the Dale Beigle Centre for Animal Health Studies on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) campus in Mahikeng have started a Cat Sterilisation Project.

The center’s veterinarian, Dr Rebecca Quam, and her colleagues say they aim to sterilise at least 80% or more of the current cat population.

The project – the length of which will be determined by available funds through donations – is expected to continue for up to two years. 

Dr Quam says the animals will be tested for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and Feline Leukaemia, which are both deadly diseases. If found to be infected with either virus, the cats will have to be euthanised.

Healthy cats will be sterilised and vaccinated for rabies through the Track Neuter and Release (TNR) project.

To make this a reality, the centre has appealed to the community for financial contributions to this project. Staff and students are welcome to make contributions into a dedicated account at the Animal Clinic under the NWU Sterilisation Campaign. Please contact Dr Quam at (018) 389 2717 for more informatio