These whiskered recruits may not wear uniforms, but they are playing an important role in keeping the base’s feline population under control.
Pretoria, South Africa (04 August 2026) – There is a new group reporting for duty at a South African military base, and they come with whiskers and tails.
The base’s resident cats have officially become “Cat Cadets” as part of a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programme aimed at managing and caring for the local feline population.
Under the watchful eye of the F3 Feral Feline Fix National Sterilisation Project, the furry recruits are being safely trapped before being taken to qualified veterinarians for sterilisation. Once they have recovered, the cats will return to the familiar territory they know as home.
The playful military-style announcements had everyone smiling, with the cats being instructed to report for TNR training and reminded that one trap should be used per “cat cadet”. The programme also made it clear that rumours of kitchen staff carrying out sterilisations were completely false.
TNR programmes help manage feral cat populations humanely while allowing sterilised cats to return to the environments where they already live.
And when the newly sterilised cadets return, they will be ready to resume their important duties. The mission is officially underway, and the recruits appear more than ready to report for duty.
Oneplan Pawsitive of the Week
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Sources: Pretoria Animals Buddies
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Passionate about sharing stories of growth and resilience. From sports to the ways business, travel, and art shape communities. When she’s not writing, she’s likely out on a run or discovering new coffee spots.
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