After analyzing the "right to bark" for dogs, let's address another topic that often sparks debate in residents' meetings: the presence of cats. While cats are generally discreet animals, managing their food in shared areas can create tension.
Here is what Italian law mandates regarding the rights and duties of those caring for cats in a "condominio."
1. The Right to Life and Care
The cornerstone of our jurisprudence is that cats are social animals that have the right to live freely within their territory. No condominium regulation can ban the presence of cats in common areas, nor can it order the removal of a pre-existing feline colony.
2. Can You Feed Cats in the Courtyard?
The answer is Yes. According to several court rulings (including a landmark one from the Court of Milan), it is perfectly legal to feed cats in the common spaces of a building, provided two fundamental conditions are met:
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Hygiene and Cleanliness: This is where conflicts usually arise. Anyone feeding cats is obligated to remove food scraps, dirty bowls, or containers immediately after the meal. Leaving organic residue that might attract insects or cause bad odors turns an act of care into a violation of building decorum and hygiene.
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Non-Interference: The placement of bowls must not prevent other residents from using common spaces (stairs, garages, pathways).
3. Feline Colonies: Special Protection
If a group of stray cats lives in your building complex, they can be officially recognized as a "Colonia Felina" (Feline Colony) by the local health authority (ASP).
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Once registered, the colony is protected by law: cats cannot be moved from their natural habitat.
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The colony "referent" (caretaker) has the right and duty to care for and feed them but must also manage their sterilization (often with the support of public veterinary services).
4. Owned Cats and "Condominium Freedom"
If you have a cat that lives in your apartment but enjoys roaming the building:
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Damages: You are civilly liable for any damage caused by the cat (e.g., scratches on cars in the garage or broken pots).
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Decorum: The cat must not soil common areas. If it does, the owner is required to clean it up immediately.
Advice from Domus Sicilia: Coexistence is a matter of balance. If you decide to care for cats in shared spaces, do so with extreme discretion and cleanliness: a well-kept area removes any ground for complaints from less tolerant neighbors.
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