On the Cycladic islands of Paros and Antiparos, the sight of cats weaving through whitewashed streets and sunlit landscapes is part of everyday life. However, behind this familiar charm lies a commitment to cat welfare that goes far beyond appearances. Community-led cat welfare initiatives, like our comprehensive project on Paros and Antiparos, play a crucial role in ensuring that every cat can live a healthy, happy life. By providing essential support and addressing overpopulation, we’re helping to transform the lives of cats across these islands and setting a benchmark for feline welfare throughout Greece.
Cats of the World: A global celebration of our collective love of cats
This October I was thrilled to attend the book launch of Cats of the World, a collaborative project by renowned kitten rescuer Hannah Shaw and acclaimed cat photographer Andrew Marttila. More than just a collection of stunning images the book is a celebration of the people and communities who dedicate their time, resources, and hearts to caring for cats around the world—even under challenging conditions.
In a lucky twist of timing, I was able to join this incredible event, held at the historic Strand Book Store, which has long been a gathering place for book lovers and now, for cat enthusiasts as well. For me, being at the launch was about celebrating the same message we carry in our work in Greece: that through community support, awareness, and compassion, we can make a difference in the lives of every stray cat.
Spotlight on Greece: Featuring Athens, Santorini, and Paros
Cats of the World takes readers on a visual journey across 25 countries, capturing the diversity and beauty of cat communities everywhere. Greece occupies a special place in the book, with features on Athens, Santorini, and Paros—where our Paros & Antiparos cat care project is making a significant impact. Paros is more than a beautiful backdrop in the book; it represents a community-driven approach to cat welfare, with residents like Mrs. Kaparou—a dedicated cat lover featured in Cats of the World—leading by example.
Mrs. Kaparou, our wonderful neighbor, exemplifies the spirit of Greek cat guardianship. Her compassion and support for local cats are precisely what Cats of the World celebrates: individuals who step up, even when circumstances are tough, to create safer and healthier lives for the cats they care for. It was truly heartening to see Paros represented on an international stage, highlighting both the beauty of the island and the community’s devotion to its feline residents.
A vision for the future of cats in Greece
Our Paros & Antiparos project, the largest community cat management initiative of its kind in Greece, is helping to lay the groundwork for a transformative approach to cat care. By focusing on sustainable population management and health care, we’re working toward a vision where every cat in Greece is valued, cared for, and given the chance to live a full life as part of the community. The success of our program on Paros and Antiparos also serves as a model for how such initiatives can be effectively implemented in other regions, paving the way for a future where cat welfare becomes a national priority.
The launch of Cats of the World provided an uplifting reminder of why we continue this work, rain or shine, summer heat or winter chill. To see Greece and Paros celebrated in a book filled with stories of hope and resilience is a testament to the dedication of all those who work tirelessly for the welfare of cats, not just on our islands but across the globe.
Growing the global community of cat lovers
As we returned home, a signed copy of Cats of the World in hand, we felt more inspired than ever. It’s a privilege to see Paros and its dedicated residents shine among global cat-loving communities in a book that champions optimism, compassion, and perseverance. To all who support our work on Paros and Antiparos, thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re helping to build a brighter future for cats in Greece and beyond.
Featured:
Isa Borst is the Communications, Engagement and Education Lead for Animal Action Greece’s Paros & Antiparos Community Cat Care Project.
The authors of the Cats of the World Book:
Hannah Shaw: Instagram
Andrew Marttila: Instagram
