We started by simply spreading the good news of spaying and neutering. This meant dispelling misconceptions about animal behavior and about the surgeries themselves. It also meant politely telling people that what they know about the “birds and the bees” doesn’t necessarily apply to the reproduction of cats and dogs. For example, did you know that kittens as young as 4 months old can begin reproducing?

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Kotor Kitties moved beyond Facebook posts and into the community with literature aimed at Serbian-, English-, Russian- and French-speaking tourists. Our leaflets not only address the problems the animals face, but how everyone can be part of the solution.

Fostering a humane attitude towards animals takes time. It is important for us that there are people in Montenegro who understand the problem and solution, so they are ready to be humanitarian guides. Аs visitors we can share the experience of our own communities, where we have been fortunate to witness the dramatic impact of well-designed sterilization programs. We can add our voices, our resources and our support to theirs as they challenge their neighbors and their government to do better. And if our voices aren’t needed we can still stand quietly with them. Don’t we all feel better with encouragement and support from friends?

Kotor Kitties wants to see spay-neuter of pets and street animals become an expected norm in Montenegro, just as it has in the US , the UK and many other western countries.

Recently a graphic design volunteer produced a flyer and poster on the benefits of sterilization for owners and pets. A local supporter donated anonymously for them to be printed. They were distributed and hung in vet clinics, pet stores, and other shops throughout coastal and central Montenegro. (Printed and distributed in Montenegrin, not English.)

Our next step will be more production of literature, posters, signage, billboards, and television/radio spots – in Montenegrin.

In addition to continuing pieces on spay-neuter, we anticipate promoting the requirement for microchips, rabies vaccine and registration of all cats and dogs, the joy of adopting an animal, and even a humorous spot on “poop patrol” when you walk your dog!

Some things we do in the west just don’t adapt well in Montenegro.

TNR workshops are an example: there is vague interest, but no sign-up if a workshop is planned.

• But many people are willing to watch a YouTube video or talk to a vet, then go out alone or with a friend to trap a cat.
• Some people are a little more reserved and would like a more experienced trapper on hand to coach them through the first few times.

How people receive the information doesn’t really matter, as long as the cats are making it to the clinics and “best practices” are gradually shared and adopted.