Portugal study reveals compassion fatigue among street cat caretakers

Researchers at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto conducted Portugal's first national study on compassion fatigue among informal street cat caretakers. The survey included 172 participants, most of whom were women with an average age of 53, employed and holding higher‑education degrees. About half of the caretakers reported moderate levels of compassion fatigue and 10 % exhibited high levels.

The study identified key stressors such as the cost of feeding and veterinary care, as well as hostility or threats from neighbours. Caretakers who felt stronger family support were less likely to develop severe fatigue. The authors, led by Professor Cristina Costa Santos, call for greater public visibility, educational campaigns and institutional, practical and financial support for these volunteers, recommending shared‑management policies for cat colonies.

The findings highlight a hidden mental‑health burden within a population that cares for thousands of stray cats across Portugal.