When were cats brought to besieged Leningrad? - briefly
Cats were brought into besieged Leningrad in the fall of 1941, as part of efforts to combat the rat infestation that was exacerbated by the blockade and food shortages.
When were cats brought to besieged Leningrad? - in detail
During the Siege of Leningrad, which lasted from September 8, 1941, to January 27, 1944, cats played an unexpected yet crucial role in maintaining morale and controlling the rat population. The exact date when cats were brought into the besieged city is not precisely documented, but it is known that they were introduced early on in the siege as a measure to combat the growing infestation of rats.
The blockade imposed by German and Finnish forces created severe hardships for the residents of Leningrad, with food supplies dwindling and sanitary conditions deteriorating rapidly. Rats, thriving in the harsh environment, became a significant problem, feeding on whatever they could find and spreading disease. To address this issue, cats were brought into the city to control the rat population.
The decision to introduce cats was likely made by local authorities or individual citizens who recognized the urgent need to manage the pest situation. Cats, with their natural hunting instincts and ability to adapt to urban environments, proved effective in reducing the rat population. This helped prevent further spread of diseases like typhus and maintained a semblance of hygiene within the besieged city.
While the exact date of cats' introduction remains unclear, their presence was documented through various accounts and photographs taken during the siege. The cats' role in maintaining some level of sanitation and providing emotional support to the beleaguered residents cannot be overstated. They served as a symbol of resilience and hope amid the devastation and hardship faced by the people of Leningrad.