Factors Affecti̇ng Welfare Levels i̇n Unowned Cats

Unowned animals share living environments with humans in urban and rural areas, and their survival largely depends on environmental conditions. These animals often have irregular and insufficient access to adequate nutrition, shelter and veterinary care, which directly affects their welfare levels. The concept of animal welfare encompasses the fulfilment of animals' physical and psychological needs, protection from pain and stress, and the freedom to express their natural behaviours. However, due to their living conditions, unowned animals are unable to meet many of these requirements adequately. Cats constitute an important group of unowned animals and are commonly found in both urban and rural settings, living in close contact with humans. Their reliance on environmental conditions and human support makes their welfare status particularly vulnerable. When evaluated within the framework of animal welfare principles, it becomes clear that the majority of unowned cats lack fundamental freedoms, such as access to adequate nutrition and appropriate shelter, as well as veterinary care. This leads to serious physical and psychological problems. This review aims to examine the main factors affecting the welfare of unowned cats, identify existing problems in this area and suggest ways to improve the situation.