A web designer from Belgrade tells the cat protector organization Cat Care Community about taking pictures of street cats.
My name is Marija Zaric. I am from Belgrade, Serbia.
I had cats during my childhood. My household had a big garden, a lot of trees and a lot of cats. Their names were: Mica, Cica, Peca, Crnja, and so on…
Unfortunately, for the last 15 years I have lived in an apartment, and I miss that freedom. The smell of the lilac tree, cats running in and outside the house, fresh baked cookies… At this moment as I am writing, I can sense the smell of it all.
That is why I love street cats, and started to take photos of them as a reminder of my youth.
I don’t think that they should live in apartments. They are free spirits and need a lot of space.
I see myself as a black cat. There are a lot of them around here. The cat is magical and a bringer of good luck.
They are independent and funny. The street cats are taken care of by the local citizens. They are good people. They give them food, water and shelter in the local buildings.
A couple of months ago while walking through the city, I saw a little black cat left alone and ill on the street. I had to help her. After an hour of standing by her and yelling out loud if anyone would be willing to adopt her, finally a girl who loves cats came to take care of her. Now she is healthy.
I also have cats in my neighborhood. Everybody gives them food. We have one who is called Grebalica. In the English language it means “Scraper,” as she loves to scratch you with her claws, while sitting on the fence and watching something in the distance.
An interesting thing about one black cat I saw standing on the roof at the local market place is that she, according to the locals, doesn’t like to eat salty food, even if it is a salty fish. I find it hilarious.
They have nine lives, maybe ten. They are strong and can survive in urban streets and cities. Cats enjoy the sun on the roofs and on the fences of the gardens. Cats are little gods. I understand why the ancient Egyptians appreciated them. I despise the times when people exterminate them.
Cats are not our pets, but our little furry friends. A cat is a cat and that is that.
What do you think about homeless cats living outdoors? Send your opinion to Cat Care Community, and we may write an article about it.
