Cats, cats, and more cats!
A Decatur resident approached the Adams County Council during the public comment section of the meeting to raise concerns about the excessive amount of stray cats that are wandering around the city. He explained that he has been continually trapping the animals alive and giving them shelter, however he was informed that all of the local shelters have completely filled up and are turning his catches away. This account was confirmed by Sheriff Dan Mawhorr.
“The county facilities are completely full,” stated the Sheriff. “They have started leaving notes saying, ‘please stop catching these because they are feral and not adoptable’ and they are going to have to be euthanized. They did not have any solutions to this other than asking people to stop catching them.”
He explained that for the shelter, feral cats are typically held for about five days before their euthanization at the county and taxpayer’s expense. It was estimated that the procedures cost around $25 per cat, and with the high number that they are continually receiving, the costs are building higher and higher.
Mawhorr listed two ways that the public can assist in the overpopulation problem; stop feeding wild cats, and spay and neuter your pets.
“Feral cats can spread disease and do not like humans,” the Sheriff continued. “Having some of them around is good because they can eat mice and kill rodents, but when they rely on that, they can control their own population numbers.”
As for spaying and neutering, many cats that have large litters of kittens were once house pets who either are outside cats, ran away, or were abandoned by their owners. Ensuring their procedure is complete ensures that they can not contribute to the overpopulating.
County Attorney Julie MarieBrown noted that one way that the problem could be addressed is if veterinary clinics throughout the county began donating spays and neuters to the community. The Sheriff concluded by reminding Decatur residents that they are not permitted to shoot the animals within city limits, though it is permitted for those who live out in the country.
For those interested in adopting one or more of the many cats that are currently occupying the Adams County Animal Shelter, contact 260-849-0300 for more information.