Is David Gilet’s letter (April 19) regarding euthanising cats to protect wildlife indicative of the disposable society we find ourselves in? Roaming domestic cats do kill wildlife, but euthanasia is a blunt solution that doesn’t strike effectively at the heart of the problem – irresponsible pet owners.
To blame cats for following their natural instincts completely absolves owners of their role in the loss of wildlife. It misses the point entirely. It’s we humans who are destroying wildlife by not taking pet ownership seriously.
If we take the sentimentality out of it, as David suggests, and just let shelters ‘fix’ the problem, we’re conveniently ignoring the cause. Maybe we could get very unsentimental and euthanise other dangers to wildlife, such as speeding idiot hinterland drivers and habitat-destroying property developers? Honestly the list would never end, and it all has a foundation in human apathy toward our natural environment.
Domestic cats should be kept indoors, or in an enclosed outdoor area, especially at night, and allowed out only under supervision. It’s not difficult.
Our local shelters and rescue organisations play a vital role in our community, they provide a place where the abused, unwanted and abandoned can go, with the hope of being given a second chance at life. Shelters shouldn’t be expected to perform society’s dirty work, just because it saves us actually having to give a fuck.
Please support our local rescue and animal shelters. They need our help more than ever. All our animals in need, like all humans in need, deserve a little compassion and a second chance at life!
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
