The Welfare of Big Cats in Malta: A Growing Concern
Malta has been plagued by concerns over the welfare of its big cat population, particularly the four lions and a leopard found living in poor conditions in Naxxar on New Year’s Eve. Despite discussions with the Veterinary Regulations Directorate (VRD), no vet has physically examined any of the big cats, leaving many to wonder if animal welfare is truly a priority in the country. Lack of Expertise and Manpower
The main obstacle to proper animal care in Malta is the lack of local expertise and manpower. According to animal welfare activist Althea Galea, there are only three veterinarians working with the VRD, which is insufficient for the entire country.

  1. How can there only be three vets for an entire country?
  2. It just goes to show that animal welfare is not a priority in this country.

The animals are currently under the care of their owner’s veterinarian, who is responsible for their daily well-being. However, the lack of formal veterinary expertise has resulted in no physical medical examinations taking place. As a result, basic diagnostic procedures such as blood tests or dental checks have not been conducted.

“The vet who saw the animals told us they wouldn’t go in there and that they are examining the animals just by looking at them. They told us from what they saw they are ok. But that’s the problem.”
— Althea Galea, animal welfare activist

This lack of scrutiny raises concerns over the welfare of the animals. Galea believes that the animals should be relocated to a sanctuary where they can live more freely, with adequate space. Options for relocation exist, but the process has stalled due to the absence of formal details. International animal welfare organisations such as 4Paws and Born Free have expressed interest in assessing the cats and potentially relocating them to one of their sanctuaries.

Relocation Options
  • Relocation to a sanctuary where the animals can live more freely, with adequate space.
  • International relocation to a country with more adequate facilities for the animals.

    • However, the Animal Rights Ministry disputed Galea’s claims, stating that the number of vets working for the VRD is far higher than she suggested. Nevertheless, the ministry confirmed that no physical medical tests had taken place. Physical examinations were not considered ideal, as each animal would have required sedation, posing a significant risk to their lives. However, the ministry spokesperson claimed that there are no stereotypical behaviours, no excessive aggression, and no evident behavioral signs of frustration or other negative behavioural signs which may indicate poor welfare of these animals.

    Enclosures: Smaller and lower than the recommended minimum standards.
    Enrichment Activities: No enrichment activities are provided to allow the animals to ensure that they will not be bored in the enclosure.

    The situation raises questions about the enforcement of animal welfare laws and the broader issue of abandoned animals in Malta. Galea believes that the current owner should bear the cost of their transfer abroad. The regulations say that a person caught guilty of keeping dangerous animals could be liable to a fine of anywhere between €2,000 and €65,000 and could be jailed for up to three years. However, it is unclear if the owner has been taken to court or fined. As the situation continues to unfold, animal welfare activists are calling for action and more resources to be allocated to the VRD to ensure the proper care and welfare of Malta’s big cat population.