Solutions for Roaming Cats

Question: There are cats in my yard that do not belong to me. I don't want them there. What can I do?

Answer: You have a few options, but first of all...

Carol is strongly opposed to violence or cruelty of any kind toward cats or other animals. Known illegal activities should be reported to the proper authorities.

Solutions

If you know the identity of the owner, you can...

• ask them nicely to confine their pet to their property (this method rarely works).
• set a cat trap (the box variety that shelters use) and when you trap the cat (please remember to check the trap frequently), take the trap (with the cat still inside), to the neighbor. Explain the situtation and nicely inform them that the next time the animal will be transported to the local shelter.
• call your local animal control office and inquire about local regulations. Perhaps they will come and set a trap for you. Please note: If your area does not have a nuisance or leash law for cats, it may be illegal to transport someone's pet. If in doubt it is always best to check with an attorney.

Don't bother wasting your time by telling the neighbor to declaw the cat or put a bell on it. Neither one will work! Declawed cats wearing bells still kill birds! Also, fences do not work (unless it's electrified).

If you are sure the cat is a stray...

• set a cat trap yourself and transport the animal to the shelter. NEVER NEVER dump animals in the country or anywhere else. You are just moving the problem to someone else's property!
• call your local shelter. Most of the time an officer will help you handle the problem!

If you are not sure if the cat is a pet, check with animal control concerning regulations. Never violate the law!

Please feel free to contact us, but remember that we cannot give legal advice.

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