Mil levy could help feral cat population
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Editor,
Since the last feral cat article, I have learned there are four in-city Polson feral colonies. I maintain only one I call “the magic 30.” I can only hope kind people are feeding these cold and starving animals. My magic 30 are as diet-spoiled as any house cat – and they deserve it. These shadow angels are rightfully afraid of people. To stay that way is their survival. They come out of hiding at night to be cats. Of course they come out when I feed them, but they know it is save to respond to my signals. Two of these angels each at a different site (I go to 3 sites) are ear-clipped survivors of the now – I think – defunct but successful trap-neutuer-return and maintain program sponsored by Life Savers.
Is there a Life Savers? The organization seems to have faded away with the passing of its advocate Linda Crawford a year or so ago. The two ear-clipped survivors are Squeaker and Max – both 8 to 10 years old and both as sweet and loving as any companion cat. Max won’t even eat until there is a petting connection.
The history of cats is amazing – worshipped and mummified in ancient Egypt to being unwanted throwaways today. By their very nature, they bring humans a message – learn to coexist. They did their part in the plague of the middle ages. Doubt you would find a mouse or rat in downtown Polson. The only way to stabilize the population of these victims is to neuter. Some cat owners cannot afford this big expense – maybe that’s how the feral situation started. Maybe vets would offer a neutering discount for ferals. We have mill levies for landfill to swimming pool. Maybe we need to have a small bit for neutering these Polson feline citizens. We have a humane responsibility to them. I do know these “God’s Little Footsteps” need some advocates.
Joan St. John
Polson
