Israel Lacks Accurate Data on Stray Cat Population Despite Large Numbers

Israel does not have an exact count of its stray cat population, which is estimated to range between 500,000 and 2 million cats living in public spaces. A July 2025 report by the Knesset Research and Information Center estimated between 500,000 and 1.5 million, while the Agriculture Ministry estimated about 1 million stray cats. No comprehensive national census or centralized database exists to track the cats’ locations, sterilization status, or population changes.

A 2026 report by the "Let the Animals Live" organization, based on 2024-2025 data, highlights a significant gap between the scale of the stray cat issue and the state's ability to manage it. Israel conducts TNR (trap, neuter, vaccinate, return) operations funded by about 4.5 million shekels annually, enabling treatment of roughly 18,000 cats fully funded by the government, or up to 36,000 with local authority co-funding. However, the report points to inconsistent funding, lack of a long-term strategic plan, varied reporting methods, and no unified metrics to assess population control effectiveness.

Data from various municipalities show wide disparities in sterilization surgeries performed in 2025: Jerusalem conducted 2,851, Tel Aviv-Yafo 2,479, and Netanya 3,165. Smaller towns sometimes had higher per capita rates, such as Hof HaCarmel with 1,153 surgeries and Ma'alot-Tarshiha with 750. Yet, the report stresses that surgery numbers alone do not indicate success, as some authorities may focus efforts in concentrated areas while others spread them thinly.

The report estimates that to effectively control the population, about 35 sterilizations per 1,000 residents are needed annually, assuming one cat per 20 people. Jerusalem and Tel Aviv fall far below this threshold, while smaller municipalities sometimes exceed it. Over 9,500 sterilizations were recorded nationwide in 2025, but many cats treated were already adults, meaning they had likely reproduced before intervention.

The lack of precise data on cat locations and population dynamics hampers effective management. The report calls for a national census, mapping of cat colonies, multi-year planning, steady funding, and measurable outcomes. Until such measures are implemented, millions will continue to be spent on sterilizations without clarity on their impact or the true size of the stray cat population.