Europe Travels

Welcome to Cyprus, the island where golden sunshine meets turquoise waters and where purring surprises await you at every turn. The famous cats of Cyprus! Cyprus isn’t just known for its ancient treasures and breathtaking landscapes. It’s also home to countless lovable, furry island cats. Spoiler alert: petting cats in Cyprus is absolutely a thing! Whether you’re wandering through the narrow alleys of old towns or lounging on dreamy beaches, spotting cats is as much a part of everyday life here as the sound of the waves. Come with me on a journey through the streets of Cyprus, where these cuddly furballs stretch out lazily in the sun, curiously peek into cafés, or strut majestically through ancient ruins. So grab your sunglasses and get ready for an adventure where we’ll not only discover the beauty of Cyprus but also find out why the cats of Cyprus hold such a special place in everyone’s heart. What makes these cats so unique and loved? And more importantly, what’s the story behind the cats of Cyprus and how did they become so numerous? Petting Cats of Cyprus Everywhere As soon as you arrive in Cyprus, you’ll quickly notice that these cuddly cats are absolutely everywhere. In the winding alleys of the old towns, between olive trees, or right by the sea. Cats roam through the scenery as if they were a living part of the island’s backdrop. Sometimes they doze off in the warm sun, other times they watch passing visitors with curious eyes. Their perfect mix of independence and gentle charm makes them beloved by both locals and travelers and you’ll soon find yourself wanting to pet the Cats of Cyprus and enjoy their lovely company. Travel Tip for Animal Lovers:If you love being surrounded by animals while traveling and want to keep your trip budget-friendly, housesitting might be just the thing for you.(→ Check out my article on Housesitting here) The Story of the Cats of Cyprus As a backpacker exploring Cyprus, I didn’t just stumble across jaw-dropping landscapes and forgotten ruins—I also encountered the island’s extraordinary relationship with its cats. You simply can’t miss it: they’re everywhere. Along the way, three questions came to mind, and I’d love to answer them for you here: Why are there so many cats in Cyprus? How did these furry creatures get to the island? What role do they play in the history of Cyprus? A Journey Through Time The story of the cats of Cyprus begins in a monastery in 327 AD. During the Middle Ages, when Cyprus was under Byzantine rule, many monasteries and churches were established across the island. Legend has it that Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, helped found a monastery here—but the island was plagued by severe drought and venomous snakes. According to the travel guide Lonely Planet, Saint Helena supposedly tackled the snake infestation by bringing in cats. Boatloads of them from Egypt to Cyprus. The monks welcomed the cats, not just for their company but also because they proved to be indispensable hunters, protecting food supplies and crops from rodents. The cats weren’t just tolerated, they became a vital part of daily monastic life. Their presence was even considered a blessing. Over time, a deep bond formed between the cats of Cyprus and the monastery residents. The Cat Population Booms on Cyprus As time passed, the cat population on the island grew exponentially, turning these fluffy companions into an ever-present sight. One major reason for this boom? A lack of spaying and neutering. Without population control, the cats multiplied freely, which eventually led to overpopulation and health issues among the little island dwellers. Additionally, the cultural love for cats helped their numbers grow. Locals have long considered the cats loyal companions, often treating them as semi-pets and feeding them even when they roamed free. Cats of Cyprus in Need – Challenges for the Island Despite their laid-back, independent image, many cats in Cyprus face tough challenges. Many are homeless, without steady food sources or shelter, and must fight daily to survive. Because the cat population has grown so large, natural prey has become scarce, making the cats increasingly reliant on human kindness for food. Thankfully, the island is home to many dedicated animal welfare organizations and volunteers who feed, care for, and provide medical treatment to these cats. Many of these groups also run spay and neuter programs to help control the population and ease the suffering. Want to help?Cats in need can be found everywhere, from busy city streets to remote mountain villages. If you find a sick or injured cat, bring them to the nearest animal shelter. They’ll get the help they need and maybe even a second chance at a better life. A Cyprus Vacation – Always a Cat Close By While the rising number of cats has created challenges for the island, for cat lovers, it’s nothing short of a dream. On your Cyprus journey, you’re almost guaranteed to meet a friendly feline around every corner. Whether you’re strolling through the charming old town of Paphos or having breakfast in a traditional Cypriot stone house, the curious, adorable cats are never far away. One little troublemaker even tried to steal our breakfast. Lesson learned: never leave your food unattended on Cyprus! But honestly, those unexpected encounters with the cats of Cyprus created some of our favorite memories from the trip. Conclusion – A Cat Lover’s Dream Vacation Cyprus is a paradise for travelers who adore animals—especially cats! Beyond the stunning beaches and incredible sights, there’s something even more magical waiting for you: the chance to cuddle, pet, and simply enjoy the company of the beautiful cats of Cyprus. Their friendly, relaxed nature adds something truly special to the island, letting you experience Cyprus in a whole new, heartwarming way.