CAPE TOWN – Animal welfare organisation Four Paws is calling for legislative action that protects both communities and animals to address the growing stray animal crisis in South Africa.

The organisation said in a statement, released ahead of World Stray Animal Day on Saturday 4 April, that South Africa faces a mounting stray animal crisis that threatens both animal welfare and public health, with an estimated 4,05 million dogs and cats currently homeless across the country.

The homeless animals represent approximately 22% of South Africa’s estimated 18,6 million companion animals, which includes 13,4 million dogs and 5,2 million cats.

Of the homeless population, an estimated 3,4 million are strays whilst 650 000 are housed in shelters.

Unsterilised animals drive population growth

A census conducted in Langa, Cape Town, revealed that nearly 90% of dogs and cats were unsterilised – a key driver behind relentless population growth and associated public health risks.

“Stray animal management is a One Health issue,” said Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa.

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“When dogs and cats roam without care, it’s not only the animals that suffer, but communities also face increased risks of bites, disease transmission and unsafe environments. Humane, evidence-based solutions are urgently needed.”

Rabies remains serious threat

Rabies continues to pose a significant public health threat in South Africa, with surveillance data confirming human cases annually, particularly linked to dog bites.

A retrospective review led by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases in Limpopo between 2011 and 2023 recorded 98 743 animal bite cases and 32 human deaths due to rabies.

The review found a 100% fatality rate amongst confirmed cases, many of whom did not complete post-exposure prophylaxis courses, highlighting the need for better awareness and access to care.

Legislative action needed

Four Paws advocates for responsible pet ownership through sterilisation, identification, microchipping and vaccination as more effective and humane alternatives to euthanasia.

“We call on government to embed these principles into national and municipal legislation,” Miles added.

“South Africa has an opportunity to lead by example, ensuring that animal welfare and human health go hand in hand.”

The organisation points to municipal frameworks such as the City of Cape Town’s Animal Keeping Bylaw (2021), which includes mandatory sterilisation and permitting provisions to curb overpopulation and improve community safety.

Collaborative approach essential

Four Paws has issued calls to action for different sectors of society.

The organisation urges government to embed humane companion animal population management through national and municipal laws promoting responsible ownership, sterilisation, identification and vaccination.

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Communities and pet owners are encouraged to vaccinate, sterilise and microchip pets whilst keeping them safely at home, report bite incidents promptly and seek post-exposure prophylaxis when needed.

Civil society and experts are asked to collaborate on data-driven interventions and public awareness campaigns to protect people, pets and public spaces.