A story in last week’s Chemainus Valley Courier (Dec. 14) about the CATastrophe group in Chemainus and its efforts to reduce a feral cat colony in a rural area of Chemainus with regular feeding and trapping for eventual integration into adopted homes generated a huge response.
Here’s some of the comments that came in via the Courier’s Facebook page:
This feeding of feral cats is not cool for the wildlife. I would support this if they were capturing all the feral cats and permanently removing them to a managed facility where they will not have a negative impact on wildlife. Feeding stations attract cougars, bears etc. Ground birds and song birds are wiped out in some areas.
Deana Bolger
It’s got to start somewhere and that’s what’s happening. Raising awareness and funds to carry out the ultimate plan of reducing the sizes of the colonies. But in the meantime the kitties still need food. Thanks for your support everyone!
Lana Halme
And thank you Lana, et al, for all you do for these cats. There are so many little guys out there waiting for their forever homes and families. Adopting one of these helps to reduce feral cats and dogs. Adopting from a breeder or pet store does nothing to help reduce the problem. And remember to always spay/neuter your new addition.
Deb Kay Purse
I have been feeding the Chemainus feral kitties and haven’t seen anything other than cold hungry cats. No bears. No cougars. People need to take their cats with them when they move. People are the primary problem. Not the cats. Thank you to all the wonderful people helping us.
Ellen Mcewan
Great reply Ellen.There are ferals near my brother’s and he looks after them, as does a neighbour. You have a wonderful group of people in your lovely town.
Sharryn Johnson
Cats aren’t fixed, then kittens happen. Are these feral cats all left behind by owners? I doubt it.
Heather Lynn Baillie
Not feeding them increases the number of birds hunted by the cats.
Marilyn Akre