|
|
Blaming the Feeders for the Problem
By: Alley Cat Rescue
Many blame caregivers for perpetuating the problem by feeding stray and feral cats. While it is true supplemental feeding creates healthier animals and increases the chance of more kittens surviving, feral colonies survive even if only meager food sources such as garbage and rodents are available. This has been proven in deserts and on deserted islands throughout the world where ferals survive without any nearby human habitation.
Instead of blaming the feeders and criminalizing their actions (which is often suggested), we should encourage their acts of compassion by assisting them with the resources and information available to sterilize the animals.
In a recent poll, it was estimated that 17.5 million people feed 35.2 million stray and feral cats in the U.S. It seems a natural act for humans to feed an animal to keep it from starving. Those cats turned away from a possible food source will cross busy highways in search of other sustenance. They will suffer from malnutrition and starvation, and most will still survive and manage to add to the overpopulation of feral kittens. A good life in a managed, sterilized colony with a caretaker providing nutritious food is much more preferable.
Scapegoating cats
This current trend towards scapegoating cats is very dangerous, as it fosters cruelty to animals. At ACR we believe that all animals, whether exotic, alien, nuisance or so-called pests are all sentient beings and should be given humane care and treatment. Nonlethal methods for controlling their populations exist and should be advocated by all humane and environmental groups who are trying to instill a more compassionate ethic towards the earth and all her inhabitants.
|
|
About Feral Cats
Humane Education
If You Die, Will They?
Barn Cats
Cats and Babies
Lost Pets
|
Home 
Adopt