Last Updated on 1 January 2026 by Vanessa
Cities around the world have large feral cat populations, and Riga, the capital of Latvia, is no different. Hundreds of cats live on the city’s streets, often passing by unnoticed.
A local non-profit, Cat Care Community, works to change that. They show people what life looks like for these street cats and why they need care and support.
Cat Care Community’s mission: capturing the essence of feral cats through photography
For the past year, the animal welfare group Cat Care Community has used photography to show life as it really looks for Riga’s feral cats.
The goal goes beyond taking good photos. The team wants to show each cat as an individual with its own story and personality. Through these images, they hope people see the cats not as part of the background, but as living beings who need care and attention.
Misconceptions about feral cats
People often have mixed feelings about feral cats. Some see them as a danger and choose to avoid them.
In reality, most street cats end up there because people abandon them or because they were born outside. They learn to adapt and survive in tough conditions.
Some cats keep their distance from humans, but many still respond to kindness and can form close bonds with people who treat them with care.
Each street cat has its own, unique story.
Some have faced tough times, others show remarkable resilience, and many have experienced small acts of kindness from people along the way.
Cat Care Community gives these cats a voice. By sharing their photos and raising awareness, they help people understand and empathize with animals that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)
Concerns about street cats in Latvia have led to several Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. Volunteers capture feral or stray cats, sterilize them, and then return them to their original locations. These campaigns help prevent overpopulation, reduce health problems, and lower the risk of disease, giving the cats a better chance at a safer, healthier life.
What do you think about street cats?
How do you see feral cats? Are they a nuisance, or do they deserve care and compassion? Thinking about our own attitudes can help us create a kinder environment for these often-overlooked animals.
Share this story with your friends or on social media, and help others discover the hidden lives of Riga’s street cats. Together, we can make a real difference in their lives.
Read next: Your Riga itinerary isn’t complete without these 9 perfect cat spots!
Feral cats of Riga photos courtesy of Cat Care Community
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