Cats Claim American University of Beirut Campus as Their Own: Over 1,200 Felines Roam Free

Feline Frenzy at American University of Beirut: Over 1,000 Cats Roam Campus BEIRUT, Lebanon - In a unique phenomenon that has become an integral part of the campus culture, more than 1,200 cats have made the American University of Beirut (AUB) their home, with some estimates suggesting as many as 30% of students consider them friends. The feline population at AUB began to grow in the late 1980s, when the university started taking in stray cats abandoned during Lebanon's civil war. The influx continued last year, when hundreds more were brought to the campus gates following the Israel-Lebanon conflict. Today, the university's sprawling grounds are a cat lover's paradise, with towering trees and green spaces leading down to the Mediterranean Sea. "We've learned to live with them," said Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president. "They're part of our community now." The cats come in all shapes and sizes - from purebred Persian felines to scrappy street cats. University staff spays, neuters, and vaccinates the animals, while also trying to find homes for those that can be adopted. Not everyone is a fan of the feline invasion, however. Some students have expressed concerns about the cats' presence in classrooms and dormitories. But university officials say they are doing their best to balance the needs of both humans and animals. "We understand that not everyone may be comfortable with cats on campus," said Dr. Khuri. "But we believe it's an important part of our community's character." The phenomenon has also sparked interest among international students, who have been drawn to AUB by its unique feline population. "It's a great way for us to connect with the local culture," said Emily Chen, a sophomore from China. As the university continues to grapple with the challenges and benefits of having such a large cat population, one thing is clear: these felines are here to stay. Background: Lebanon has a long history of conflict, which has led to a significant number of stray animals on the streets. The American University of Beirut, founded in 1866, has a strong tradition of community engagement and social responsibility. Additional Perspectives: Animal welfare experts say that AUB's approach to managing its cat population is commendable, but also note that more needs to be done to ensure the cats' long-term well-being. "We applaud the university for taking steps to care for these animals," said Dr. Sophia Patel, a veterinarian with the World Animal Health Organization. "However, we believe that more can be done to provide a stable and sustainable environment for them." As AUB continues to navigate its unique feline situation, one thing is certain: this campus cat population has become an integral part of the university's identity. Current Status: The university is working with local animal welfare organizations to develop a comprehensive plan for managing its cat population. In the meantime, students and staff are learning to live alongside their feline friends. Next Developments: AUB plans to establish a dedicated cat shelter on campus, which will provide a safe haven for the animals and help facilitate adoptions. *Reporting by Npr.*