Save A Gato: Caring for Old San Juan’s Cats

A Lifeline for Old San Juan’s Stray Cats

In the heart of Puerto Rico’s historic Old San Juan, a unique nonprofit is dedicated to safeguarding one of the city’s most iconic yet often overlooked populations—the cats of Paseo del Morro. Save A Gato (SAG), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has been working tirelessly since 2004 to control and care for the feline community through humane Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) practices. Their unwavering commitment has led to a 50% reduction in the cat population while ensuring the well-being of the remaining cats who call these cobblestone streets home.

The Only National Park Cat Colony Management Program

Save A Gato is the only animal rescue organization in Puerto Rico that works exclusively with cats and is the sole organization with a formal agreement with the National Park Service (NPS) to manage a cat colony within a U.S. national park. This distinction underscores the organization’s credibility and the effectiveness of its TNR program. “We are the only nonprofit in Puerto Rico that manages a cat colony inside a national park, thanks to our partnership with the NPS,” SAG states on its Instagram page. Their work benefits the feline population and preserves the delicate balance between historic preservation and animal welfare.

Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Adoption Efforts

Beyond controlling the colony’s numbers, Save A Gato is committed to the rescue, medical care, and adoption of abandoned and injured cats. The nonprofit operates a small shelter in Old San Juan where volunteers care for cats awaiting adoption. They also provide food, medical treatment, and ongoing care for community cats that cannot be rehomed. A recent post from their Facebook page emphasizes their mission: “Every cat deserves love and care, whether they find a forever home or continue to live in the streets they know so well.”

The Impact of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)

The Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) method, endorsed by animal welfare organizations such as the ASPCA, is the most humane and effective way to manage cat populations. TNR involves trapping, sterilizing, vaccinating, and returning feral cats to their colonies, preventing unwanted litters, and improving the colony’s health. “TNR helps stabilize the stray cat population while reducing territorial behavior like fighting and spraying,” Save A Gato explains on its Facebook page. This method ensures healthier lives for the cats while reducing the strain on local shelters.

Collaboration for a Greater Impact

The success of Save A Gato’s programs is built on community engagement and partnerships. They collaborate with local veterinarians, volunteers, and international rescue groups to ensure cats receive proper medical treatment and, when possible, are relocated to forever homes. “Our work is possible because of volunteers, donors, and supporters who believe in humane solutions for Puerto Rico’s cats,” they shared in a recent post. The organization welcomes visitors, volunteers, and donations, emphasizing that every small effort contributes to a larger mission.

How to Get Involved

Donating: Contributions help provide food, medical care, and spay/neuter procedures.
Volunteering: Visitors and locals can assist in feeding and socializing cats at the shelter.
Adopting: Give a rescued cat a loving forever home.
Spreading Awareness: Follow and share their message on Instagram and Facebook to help more people learn about their cause.

For those looking to make a difference, visit Save A Gato’s website to learn more about their programs and how to help. The organization urges, “Every cat deserves a chance. Join us in making Old San Juan a safer place for them. ”