Investigation into transfer of cats

An investigation has been held over the transfer of cats from San Anton Gardens to Wied Incita.

Environment and Rural Affairs Minister George Pullicino tabled a copy of the investigation report when replying to a parliamentary question by Noel Farrugia (MLP).

The investigation was headed by Dr D. Chetcuti Ganado, veterinary officer.

It was found that 16 cats were transferred from San Anton Gardens to Wied Incita due to inconveniences they were causing at the gardens and damage caused to flora and fauna.

The capture and transfer of the cats was handled by the head gardener without the assistance of a qualified person, but the methods employed were found to be acceptable from an animal welfare point of view.

At Wied Incita eight of the cats which had been at San Anton could not be accounted for at the time of the investigation "but it must be noted that it is very difficult for cats to be found all in the same area in an unconfined large open space" the report says.

Wied Incita was seen as offering a habitat which is more suitable for the cats than San Anton for several reasons, notably less human interference, adequate facilities including shelter, a balanced diet and water are being provided.