The historic neighborhood of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico is facing a contentious issue as the federal government plans to remove feral cats from the area. The decision has sparked outrage among residents who feel pushed out of their homes as housing costs continue to rise.
Old San Juan, the first settlement on the island by the Spanish, is known for its charming cobblestone streets and colonial-era houses. The feral cats that roam the neighborhood have become a part of its character, with residents feeding them and tourists enjoying their presence.
However, the National Park Service, which manages the San Juan National Historic Site, including the iconic fortress El Morro, has deemed the cats a nuisance and a potential health hazard. The agency plans to remove close to 200 cats from the area, citing concerns about disease and visitor experience.
The decision has divided the community, with some residents supporting the removal of the cats due to sanitation issues, while others argue that the cats are an integral part of the neighborhood’s identity. Save a Gato, a nonprofit organization that has been caring for the cats for nearly 20 years, has been working to find homes for the felines to prevent them from being euthanized.
The controversy over the cats is just one aspect of the larger transformation taking place in Old San Juan. As outside investors buy up properties and convert them into vacation rentals, longtime residents are being priced out of the neighborhood. The influx of new buyers, fueled by tax incentives for investors, has led to a surge in housing costs, making it difficult for many Puerto Ricans to afford to live in the area.
Residents like Rei Segurola, who have called Old San Juan home for years, fear that the neighborhood is losing its sense of community and historic charm. They worry that the changes brought about by gentrification and rising housing costs will strip Old San Juan of its soul.
As the debate over the cats continues, it serves as a symbol of the larger struggles facing Old San Juan and its residents. The fight to preserve the neighborhood’s character and protect its vulnerable population of feral cats reflects the broader battle to maintain the cultural identity and affordability of this historic district.
