On the heels of Friday’s post, we need to clarify a few things. While we understand that it’s a polarizing topic with feral cats, there are reasons we take this stance.
This ordinance has been in the County’s code since April 18, 2016. The ordinance is not only to help control the feral cat population, but it also keeps wild animals from coming in to the areas we live trying to scavenge for food. We get multiple calls weekly from people who have a fox, raccoon, skunk or Opossum in their yard or garage due to some sort of animal food being left out.
Most of the cities in the county have an ordinance limiting the amount of cats or dogs that one can possess on their property. The city of Breese limits you to 3 cats. Those wanting to own or care for a cat colony will have to live outside of the city limits. The cats along the railroad tracks near the feed mill are a nuisance, getting in to neighboring yards and messing with their own animals.
The problem with a feral cat colony such as this one, is that all of the animals are unvaccinated and not spayed or neutered. This creates a public health concern with the potential spread of rabies or other feline illnesses. The other thing is it contributes to more cats that are unwanted. Annually, we have cats/kittens that come in as found or unwanted and that amount will continue to grow if gone unchecked. We do our best to get them to a rescue or adopt them out but the problem continues to grow and shelters and rescues are completely full. So, if you are the ones caring for this cat colony, do what’s best for them and pay to have them vaccinated and spayed or neutered. We offer low cost spay and neuter clinics at animal control. Give us a call and we can get you on the list.
The last thing about this colony is that it is being cared for on railroad property. It’s considered trespassing to enter on to railroad property without permission. This is considered federal property. We have made them aware of the situation and they know we are attempting to clean it up.
As always, give us a call to discuss this if you would like to. (618)594-4483
Please spay and neuter your pets!!
Tony Petrea
Animal Control Warden
