Domestic cats have been categorized as an alien species.

The house cat is considered an alien by the Polish Academy of Sciences because it was domesticated in the Middle East and has a negative effect on native flora.

Japanese knotweed, raccoons, clearwing moths, and mandarin ducks are some of the "Invasive alien species" that the Academy deems to be.

A study shows that cats in Poland kill and eat more mammals and birds than any other country in the world.

The criteria for including the cat among alien invaders are met by the cat.

Cat owners and cat lovers are angry at the classification because they think it will lead to abuse of cats.

The false impression was given that the institute was calling for the deaths of cats.

There are comments on the Academy's Facebook page that say the institution's classification is stupid and harmful.

cat on couch
The Polish Academy of Sciences recommended cat owners limit the time their pets spend outdoors during bird breeding season.
Jennifer DiMatteo/Insider

The Felis Catus was added to the database by the Polish Academy of Sciences and no other entry has caused such an emotional reaction.

Solarz faced off with the author of a book on national TV.

When discussing shrinking bio-diversity, a vet said, "Ask if man is on the list of non- invasive alien species."

People think the Academy is implying that people harm their cats, and that's what Solarz thinks is behind the negative feedback.

During bird breeding season, the Academy recommends that cat owners limit their time outside.

The Academy said in a post that they are opposed to any animal abuse. It said that defining the domestic house cat as an alien species does not justify abuse against them or the abandonment of cats.