Cancún cat poisoning spike alarms officials

Cancún, Mexico — Authorities have reported a concerning increase in cases of cat poisoning across various neighborhoods in Cancún. In just one day, eight cats were poisoned, and over the past few weeks, the total number of cases has risen to 70, raising alarm among animal welfare officials.

Investigations Underway

Yamili Góngora Manrique, Director of Animal Protection and Welfare for the Municipality of Benito Juárez, confirmed that her office has received multiple reports of cat poisonings in different parts of the city.

"We are working with the State Attorney General’s Office to investigate what is happening, as animal cruelty is a criminal offense," Góngora stated.

She emphasized the importance of community involvement in identifying those responsible, noting that without public cooperation, it is difficult to track down perpetrators.

Challenges in Managing Feral Cats

Góngora acknowledged the difficulties in capturing feral cats—those born or raised on the streets—due to their aggressive and wild nature.

"We place cat traps in various parts of the city to bring them to the animal welfare center, but this process can take up to a month," she explained.

While there have been no recent reports of feral cats attacking humans or spreading diseases like rabies, these animals often scavenge for food, consuming carrion, spoiled food, and garbage, which can expose them to infectious diseases.

Long-Term Socialization Difficulties

Experts note that after four months of age, a feral cat may retain wild tendencies for life, including fear of strangers and changes in environment. An adult feral cat could take years to socialize—if it ever does. Authorities recommend caution and advise that if a feral kitten is adopted, it should be sterilized.

Stray Cat Population Concerns

According to animal rights groups in Cancún, there may be as many as 80,000 stray cats in the tourist hub. These cats reproduce every three months, with litters ranging from three to six kittens. Their average lifespan is one to three years, though some survive up to seven despite harsh living conditions.

In Villas Otoch alone, an estimated 30,000 cats and dogs live as strays.

Officials continue to urge residents to report any suspicious activity related to animal cruelty as investigations into the poisonings proceed.