The Straits Times
STForum Online
July 6, 2009
Sterilised cats generally cause less trouble
I REFER to last Thursday's letter by Mr Ernest Chua, 'The constant noises they created, the mess from droppings and wanton breeding made life hell for us'.
The Cat Welfare Society agrees with Mr Chua that responsible feeding and sterilisation of community cats are crucial to the harmonious coexistence of cats, caregivers and residents. That is why we advocate the trap-neuter-release-manage (TNRM) method, in which community cats are captured, sterilised and then returned to the community, where caregivers can continue to feed and care for them, as well as manage any issues arising from their presence.
Sterilised cats generally do not caterwaul, tomcats will stop spraying urine to mark their territory, and 'wanton breeding' will be prevented.
All caregivers are also encouraged to feed responsibly at ground level and clear up after the cats have eaten. This should prevent any problems arising from leftover food. Residents who face the same issues that Mr Chua once faced can try using cat repellents such as crushed mothballs and Cat Stop to repel cats from entering private premises.
Mr Chua also mentioned that the cat trap provided by the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority 'proved ineffective'. It is actually easier for caregivers to do the trapping as they may understand cat behaviour better. Community cats also recognise familiar faces and are more likely to approach the caregivers. That is why caregivers play an important role for the TNRM method to be effective.
Ang Li Tin
President
Cat Welfare Society
