Several charities on the Greek island of Syros are looking for volunteers to care for the island’s stray cats (about 3,000 in number) by offering free accommodation in exchange.
Since the 1990s, charities such as Syros Cats have been dealing with feline population management, sterilization and cat care, writes the Daily Mail.
In exchange for free room, breakfast and utilities, volunteers will spend five hours a day, five days a week feeding, cleaning and petting the rescued kitties.
Daily activities include cleaning litter boxes, brushing cats, gardening, capturing or helping to capture feral cats, administering medications, and transporting sick, injured or unvaccinated cats to the vet.
Volunteers must also interact with visitors, introducing them to the island and the cats. They are also advised not to touch sick or injured cats without the organization’s approval, as they may be unvaccinated.
Those who have experience as a veterinary assistant or have previously worked with cats are also more likely to be accepted, while people under 25 are less likely, as it may be difficult for them to demonstrate the necessary level of independence and initiative.
Only four volunteers will be accepted at a time, usually from different parts of the world, so tolerance of differences in customs, race, gender and faith is required.
Each volunteer gets their own room, but will share the kitchen, bathroom and common areas with two or three colleagues.
Applications for volunteering in 2026 at Syros Cats are currently closed due to very high demand, but the organization recommends that those interested keep an eye on social media for the next call.
When applications open, volunteers must fill out a form, provide reasons for participation and provide previous cat care experience.
Apart from accommodation, utilities and breakfast, they pay for their own transport and meals. Non-EU volunteers can stay a maximum of 3 months in six months and are advised to have health insurance. Digital nomads are welcome, but those with children or pets cannot be accommodated.
