Outdoor world can be cruel, terrifying

For several years now, my family has been tending an outdoor feeding station for feral cats. My husband Mac built some wooden shelters that are surrounded by straw. The numbers were relatively stable, but that first snow brought a surprise. Huddled in one of the houses were three young kittens that obviously did not belong to any of our regulars.

A few days later, we discovered yet another group of kittens that again did not have a familial connection to our gang.

I have previously written about this issue, but after talking to the local experts on this problem, I think it is time for a reminder.

Domestic cats, particularly those that have previously been part of a human home, are not instinctively able to fen for themselves. The outdoor world is cruel, cold and terrifying for these beautiful creatures. Cats, unlike dogs, have personality traits that often lead their human to believe that they are more competent and capable of independent living.

My son found a quote some years ago that sums this up beautifully: "Dogs have owners, cats have employees." Cute little kittens very quickly become the quirky cat.

Dropping a litter off at a feral station can have horrific consequences.

Feral cats form colonies and in many instances do not appreciate interlopers. These waifs may be attacked and gravely injured by the current pack. They are subject to the perils of predators, cars, and the bitter cold. Feeding stations are controversial. Some believe that this is not a solution and that nature should take its course, others do not. I guess I fit in the others category.

I grew up in a home that always had four-legged friends. They bring so much to our quality of life. They give us unconditional love comfort when we are troubled and joy with their antics. Many a teenaged problem was discussed with these confidential sources. They are true members of the family unit.

Pet ownership has many benefits but pets also have needs. I believe the real problem here is that we humans often do not make the responsible choices for our pets. Spaying or neutering is paramount.

In Nova Scotia, our animal shelters are full of unwanted friends that through no fault of their own become lost or abandoned. Although they are well cared for in these places their lives are lonely. But worse still is the fate of the drop-offs, like the ones we found huddled in the snow. kristy@ns.sympatico.ca