The wild cats in New York City scurry through the streets after dark, searching for food.
G for shelter when a shadowy threat approaches. Wild cats, unlike domesticated cats and strays, have an instinctual, learned understanding of how they can survive in the harsh metropolitan elements. Today, their number has reached hundreds of thousands and we, as humans, who have bred, then neglected, our fellow city dwellers, are accountable for each one.
Overpopulation of feral cat is a global crisis. The cats are often invisible but they are still present. The life of tens or even hundreds of millions of cats on the street is difficult, and their futures are uncertain. The New Yorker Sky Dylan Robbinssuggests that the most humane way to address the problem is to use the Trap-NeuterReturn (TNR) method. This program allows citizens and animal activists to capture and neuter wild cats, before returning them back to their hidden homes. These are often small, hidden areas or the place where they were originally found.
Dylan-Robbins, in speaking to experts, produced the video above to draw attention to sometimes polarizing arguments regarding feral cat populations. TNR is the most effective and compassionate way to control overpopulation. However, some people are still in favor of euthanizing large numbers of colonies. Australia’s government, for example, is planning to euthanize 2 million feral cats in urban areas. Others around the globe advocate similar measures. The argument is that feral cats are a danger to wildlife. However, cat care expert Anitra frazier told The New Yorker, “As an entire race, mankind is not taking full responsibility for its actions.”
We are all responsible for these animals and we are together their future hope. The New York State Senate, with the help of colony caregivers, passed a bill that, if signed into law by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo would fund TNR. Learn more about feral cat colonies and how to help by visiting the ASPCA.