Unfortunately, the cat population has increased rather than decreased under this program. This program is known as a TNR, or Trap-Neuter-Return program. This means that they have effects on the native species as well as on the human population.Ī nonprofit group, Save a Gato, already captures, neuters or spays, and tags the cats. The cats may be cute and picturesque, but they are also an invasive species.

Like the feral pig population of San Juan, the feral cat population has some downsides. They are also concerned about the cats themselves, since their living situation is not always conducive to health and happiness. They also carry parasites which can affect humans, including hookworms and roundworms.

Diseases associated with the population include toxoplasmosis, rabies, bartonellosis, plague, and flea-borne typhus. The National Park Service is concerned about the smells, the feces and urine, and the destruction of property and spread of disease. Ironically, the feeding stations provided for the cats also draw rats. And that history may be a myth in any case the National Park Service dates the cat population explosion to the 21st century. They did a good job of that, but now there is an enormous feral cat population. The story is that they were brought to San Juan early in its history to keep down the rat population. They are a diverse population, including friendly and shy cats of all varieties. They have their own statue, their own Instagram feed, their own coffee table book, and lots of fans among locals and tourists alike. The Cobblestone Cats of San Juan, hundreds of feral cats living in the historic district of this stunning 500 year old city, have become as controversial as they are beloved.

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