Each year, free-roaming domestic cats kill hundreds of millions of birds and small mammals, some of which are rare species in danger of extinction. In addition, millions of outdoor cats are killed or injured by cars or in fights with other cats, dogs, or wild animals. Free-roaming cats can contract debilitating and life-threatening diseases, become lost, stolen, or poisoned. It is clearly in the best interest of both cats and birds to keep cats at home. (American Bird Conservancy)

This summarizes quite succinctly why pet owners should consider keeping their cats as indoor pets only. For the safety of your pet and for the well being of other animals, consider keeping your pet inside. In addition to keeping your pet healthy and safe, Madison Ordinance (Code 23.32) clearly states that it is unlawful for the owner or keeper of any dog or cat to permit the same to run at large in the City of Madison. “A dog or cat shall be deemed to be at large when it is off the premises of its owner or keeper, unless under the control of a person and restrained by means of a chain, rope or cord of sufficient strength and of a length not to exceed six feet to control the action of a such dog or cat.”

Many bird lovers and animal lovers in our neighborhood treasure the birds we try to attract in our neighborhood. Let’s work together to find a way to keep the birds here so that all of us can enjoy the birds. Cat and dogs will be safer and healthier and pet owners will not have to risk a fine or worse.

For more information see www.abcbirds.org

- A Concerned Neighbor

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