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Could you live on Cat Island?
Trapped in a Furricane: Endless Kitties on Japan’s Cat Island
Off the coast of Japan lies a quaint island called Tashirojima that’s better known as Cat Island. This village in Miyagi Prefecture has become famous for its massive feral cat population of over 1000 furry felines. How did this small island become overrun with kitties, and what would life be like living in such an extraordinary place?
Located about an hour ferry ride from the Japanese mainland, Cat Island was once home to a thriving fishing community. But after the industry declined, human inhabitants began leaving the island in droves. As people departed, they left behind their pet cats, which bred uncontrollably without spaying or neutering programs.
Today, only around 100 people live on Cat Island year-round. But the cat population has exploded to over 9 cats per human resident! The island is now a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming specially to feed and play with the friendly stray cats. This cat-based tourism helps drive the island’s struggling economy.
