Feral cat colonies not good for community
Dear Editor:
Shannon Jolley misspoke when she said that colonies of feral cats may be “a good thing for a community.” Despite the apparent low-cost rodent control service, free-roaming and feral cats are devastating to native bird and mammal populations wherever they occur. Ecologically, domestic cats are an invasive non-native predator species. Feral cat control programs strain already small local animal shelter budgets. Moreover, feral cat colonies provide reservoirs for feline diseases, injure themselves and other cats by fighting, and distribute cat feces into play and garden areas.
Kudos to Aggie Cat Services for addressing the problem of feral cats on campus. Pets are not disposable and responsible pet owners supervise and maintain control over their animals, cats included. On a final note, cats with homes need not remain solely indoors – the National Humane Society (www.hsus.org) provides instruction on how to provide adequate fencing so cats can enjoy your backyard.
Alissa Salmore