Being as Happy as a Cat in Malta – The Story of the Sliema Cat Sanctuary

The first time I walked around the town of Sliema, where I live, and came across a stray cat, I was shocked. I had never seen a stray cat so plump, calm, and, if I may say so, even pleased with itself. At first I thought it was a runaway cat or a special case, but the more I walked around Sliema and other towns in Malta , the sight of plump, contented cats only repeated itself. I immediately remembered the well-known German saying “To be happy as God in France” and decided to change it to “To be happy as a cat in Malta”.

So why are the cats in Malta so happy?

Cats and Litter – A Love Story

It is said that the love story between the Maltese and the cat population on their island has been going on for many centuries. As is known, Malta is an island and the inhabitants of Malta were seafarers for many centuries. One of the biggest problems on ships of the past were the rats, which ate the food and goods, bit the sailors and even spread diseases.

The Maltese quickly discovered that the best way to deal with the rat plague on board was to keep a cat or two on board, who happily carried out the extermination work. This friendship between sailors and their cats continued on land, and cats became a beloved and protected animal in Malta.

As a result, several shelters for stray cats have opened in Malta, scattered throughout the island. These shelters, often located in public parks, contain small “houses” where the cats can sleep and hide from the rain. What is amazing is that not only are the cats’ basic needs taken care of, but they are also kept entertained, which is why you will find quite a few toys and stuffed animals in the shelters.

Lee went to visit the Cat Garden located on the promenade between Sliema and St. Julian's. You can identify the complex by the large statue of a cat on the roof.

What I really liked was watching how little children approached to pet the cats and play with them, while the cats pampered them without any fear.

Of course, these cat shelters do not run by themselves and behind them are about 1000 volunteers who feed the cats, care for them and take care of all their needs. Personally, this is very exciting for me and for me it provides all animal lovers with a great reason to come to Malta.

And finally, if you are not in Malta but rather in Paris (after all, this is why 99% of people come to my blog) and love cats, let me recommend these two articles to you:

• Cat cafe in Paris – A special cafe where about ten adorable cats roam around and you can play with them.
• Animal Cemetery in Anyer – True, it is a very sad place, but it is very moving and is considered a historic place, because it was the first animal cemetery in Paris.

Looking for things to do in Malta?

As you have probably already discovered (and if not, you will soon), there is so much to do in Malta that it is very difficult to choose between the variety of attractions and activities. But don't worry, I have done the work for you and collected the most worthwhile attractions and activities. You can find them in the article What to do in Malta?

Interested in living in Sliema?

Sliema is a great place to stay if you are visiting Malta (and not just because of the cats). If you have decided to stay there and are looking for a recommended hotel, you are welcome to read the article Recommended Hotels in Sliema. If you are not sure where you want to stay in Malta, let me recommend the article Where to Look for a Hotel in Malta.