Becky Robinson, CatChannel expert on feral and stray cats, advises a reader to lend cats a voice.
By Becky Robinson
Posted: May 12, 2008 2 a.m. EDT
Q: I want to help outdoor cats, but I am unable to work "hands-on," doing trap-neuter-return. How else can I help?
A: The greatest threat to stray and feral cats today is the euthanization of cats in animal control pounds and shelters. More than 70 percent of all cats are euthanized in shelters — that’s seven out of ten cats taken to shelters. That number jumps to virtually 100 percent for feral cats.
The only happy ending for animals in most shelters is adoption. Feral cats aren’t adoptable, but that doesn’t mean they should be killed. More than anything, outdoor cats need a voice. To help, start talking. Here's how:
- Tell your friends, family, pet sitter, groomer, veterinarian and others that you don’t think it’s OK to euthanize healthy animals, just because they’re not socialized to people.
- Call your local shelters and pounds. Ask them if they have programs for feral cats. Tell them you support humane standards of care for outdoor cats.
- Contact your local elected officials. Tell them you want the animal control system to change.
- Spread the word about National Feral Cat Day on October 16.
Start conversations about outdoor cats; the cats will thank you. For help starting these conversations, visit the Alley Cat Allies website.