From Condemned Home to Schenectady Streets: Community Cats
Community Cats of Schenectady
Among the wildlife in the Bellevue neighborhood of Schenectady, residents also see the “not-so-wildlife”: cats, and lots of them. Back in July, police found around 60 cats in a home on Campbell Avenue. Mohawk Hudson Humane Society caught about 40 and one just got adopted on Thursday.
A Community Effort
Some community cats, like those living under Christian Perra’s porch, have found a loving home. "We’ve taken care of at least ten or fifteen ourselves. We leave food out and do what we can to take care of them," Perra said. As Vice President for Shelter Operations, Nancy Haynes explained that community cats are not stray or feral because of people like Christian. "As long as there is a caregiver and they are spaying and neutering all of the cats, they create their own community."
The Importance of Spaying and Neutering
Perra stated, "Doing our part there. It’s been a little bit expensive but we do everything we can to spay and neuter the ones we have gotten ahold of." According to Haynes, if there is no caregiver, feeding outside cats can attract more and lead to breeding. "If there is no caregiver, you should not feed outside cats. More will be attracted to the area and they will continue to breed."
Not Everyone is a Fan
Not all residents are pleased with the community cats. One resident told NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski that he’s not a fan of the community cats because they urinate in his yard. Another neighbor, who spoke through his Ring doorbell, said he’s happy to have extra company around. "I don’t think they’re doing any harm to the neighborhood. Sometimes, I even wake up with a dead bird on my porch and I’m pretty sure that came from the cat," described Marvin Permaul.
Tips for Dealing with Community Cats
If community cats are coming around your home and you do not want them to, Mohawk Hudson has some advice:
- Do not leave food in your yard
- Secure your trash
- Keep indoor cats inside your home
Police and SPCA Involvement
Lieutenant Ryan D. Macherone with the Schenectady Police Department stated, "Due to medical/cognitive factors of the elderly adult living with the cats, no charges were filed in this case. For privacy, we wouldn’t expand on those factors, but the individual is receiving assistance from family now. The resident was cooperative and did assist our Animal Control Officers in getting each of the cats, which were brought to our partners at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society. It is my understanding that many have been adopted, which we are happy to hear. We would like to thank the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society for all their assistance in this challenging case."
The Schenectady County SPCA also sent a statement to NEWS10: "The Schenectady SPCA assisted by the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society has continued to address the cat situation in Bellevue as part of the ongoing response to a large-scale cat hoarding situation last year. The SPCA does not handle stray animals and does not regularly engage in trapping operations, but as part of the response to an animal hoarding situation will set humane traps in an effort to ensure all animals are removed from the situation and are able to receive the care that they need."
Conclusion
The community cat situation in Schenectady is a complex issue that requires the involvement of local authorities, animal welfare organizations, and concerned residents. While some may view community cats as a nuisance, others see them as a symbol of compassion and care. As the debate continues, it is clear that addressing the issue will require a collaborative effort.
FAQs
Q: What is a community cat?
A: A community cat is a cat that lives in a group, often feral or stray, but with a caregiver that provides food and shelter.
Q: Why is spaying and neutering important for community cats?
A: Spaying and neutering helps to reduce the population and prevent unwanted breeding, ensuring the well-being of the cats and the community.
Q: What should I do if I have community cats coming to my yard?
A: Do not leave food in your yard, secure your trash, and keep indoor cats inside your home.
