Letter: Trap-neuter-release program for feral cats is better than removing them

I recently had an experience with feral cats that will stick in my mind and haunt me forever. I am aware there is a feral cat problem and that it is out of control. I do, however, support the (trap neuter release) program as long as there is a responsible caretaker to feed and shelter these cats.

I do not support removing and dumping the feral cats, especially in the middle of nowhere. It is illegal first of all, and they will most definitely die a horrible death with enormous suffering — predators, harsh weather, injuries while attempting travel back to society and succumbing to disease from hunting.

Feral cats are wild, but not wild enough to survive in the wilderness. Feral cats consider humans and areas with Dumpsters a reliable food source. Once removed from that type of area they will not survive. I think it is more humane to have them euthanized rather than sentence them to die a horrific death. No living thing deserves that.

A plus to having a few fixed feral cats is pest control. I have a yearly mouse problem. Maybe I need a feral fixed cat!

This story was originally published February 6, 2016 at 11:05 PM with the headline "Letter: Trap-neuter-release program for feral cats is better than removing them."