I applaud the efforts of the concerned citizens who are working to reduce cat overpopulation, but the Trap/Neuter/Release program doesn't resolve the problems associated with stray and feral cats.
Cat overpopulation is a human-caused tragedy that affects the health and well-being of cats, our native wildlife and the public. Outdoor cats, even well-fed ones, kill hundreds of millions of wild birds and other animals each year in the U.S., including endangered species. Birds that nest or feed on the ground are especially vulnerable to cat attacks.
Trap/Neuter/Release is not humane to cats or wildlife. Free-roaming cats are in constant danger of being hit by cars, contracting diseases and parasites, or being attacked by other animals or people. Cats can transmit diseases to humans such as rabies, toxoplasmosis and cat scratch fever. In the U.S., cats are the top carrier of rabies in domestic animals.
TNR is also ineffective at reducing cat populations because not all cats can be trapped and spay/neutered, while food left out for them only attracts more cats. Colonies become dumping grounds for unwanted pets, thus continuing the inhumane cycle. In addition, cat food also attracts rats, raccoons, skunks and coyotes — all predators of birds and carriers of diseases that can be transmitted to humans.
People concerned about the welfare of feral cats should work to find homes for them and help educate pet owners about spaying and neutering their pets.
Roland Oehme, Towson