The Cat Protection Society of Victoria (CPSV) is calling on Victorians to prioritize the desexing of their cats during National Desexing Month. Highlighting the urgent need for action, CPSV reported that in 2023 alone, they received 1,441 cats and kittens at their adoption shelter, with over 70% arriving without being desexed. This statistic underscores a pervasive issue of owners neglecting this crucial responsibility.
Dr. Sarah Mitchell, Senior Shelter Veterinarian at CPSV, emphasized the dual benefits of desexing and containing cats. She explained that these measures not only prevent unwanted litters but also contribute to the overall health and longevity of the animals. Desexing can also mitigate common behavioral problems such as roaming, aggression, and urine spraying.
Mitchell stressed the broader community and environmental benefits of responsible cat ownership, noting that containing cats to their owners’ premises helps protect wildlife from predation and prevents nuisances to neighbors.
Despite the benefits, awareness remains a challenge. Mitchell pointed out that only 42 out of Victoria’s 79 councils have implemented some form of cat curfew and desexing regulations. For instance, in Whittlesea, strict containment rules and mandatory desexing for newly registered cats are enforced.
Caitlyn Corrigan, Vet Clinic Manager at CPSV, advocated for mandatory desexing and targeted initiatives such as low-cost desexing programs aimed at high-need areas. CPSV currently operates a community desexing program to assist owners facing financial constraints, ensuring that cats receive essential procedures at reduced costs.
Reflecting on the impact of COVID-19, Corrigan noted a surge in cat adoptions during the pandemic, often from sources where desexing was not a precondition. Local council efforts to provide affordable desexing options were disrupted but have since resumed.
Corrigan highlighted the reproductive capacity of cats, with females capable of breeding as early as 4 months old and producing multiple litters annually. Preventative desexing, she emphasized, is crucial in controlling overpopulation and mitigating associated challenges.
In conclusion, CPSV stresses that responsible pet ownership involves desexing and containing cats, fostering healthier animals, safer communities, and a more harmonious coexistence with native wildlife. Education, they assert, is key to shifting attitudes and ensuring sustainable practices in cat care across Victoria.
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