Stray Cats of Valencia

Valencia is a city of contrasts - lively streets alongside quiet corners and forgotten lots where stray cats seek refuge. Through my lens, I’ve sought to capture the uniqueness and beauty of these remarkable creatures, many of whom have been abandoned and must navigate an environment that is both unforgiving and unfamiliar. Each cat has a story, a presence, a fleeting existence. Many of those I’ve photographed are no longer with us, having succumbed to disease, accidents, malnutrition, or cruelty.

While stray cats are resourceful and adaptable, their survival often depends on the unwavering dedication of volunteers. The city has made strides through its sterilisation programme, yet many colonies remain under the care of compassionate individuals who rely solely on their own resources and donations to feed, neuter, and protect the cats.

This project is deeply personal to me. Cats were my first photographic subjects; as a shy person, I found it easier to connect with animals. Photographing stray cats felt natural- they were familiar yet mysterious, approachable yet elusive. Through this project, I aim to capture their individuality in a way that honours their lives.

At its heart, this project is an invitation to notice, to care, and to acknowledge the shared spaces we inhabit with other creatures. It is a call to reflect on the issue of abandonment and remind us of our shared responsibility to protect, support, and respect the lives of others, human and nonhuman alike.