Animal Services addresses public concerns with new cat trap program

Homeowners are voicing concerns about the changes for the trap-neuter-return program for stray cats throughout the city.

“I am scared for my pets and dog. I don’t want it getting scratched or bitten or anything like that,” West Side resident Luis Carlos said. He tells ABC-7 he sees a lot of stray cats in his neighborhood and the animals damage air ducts.

In April Animal Services stopped providing traps and it no longer picks up private traps.

Interim director, Kurt Fenstermacher, told ABC-7 Friday the city has changed its program and resources. It is now paired with a community group, Sun City Cats, to address local concerns with feral cats.

“People aren’t on their own. If you are calling because of cat problems in your back yard we are going to have Sun City Cats work with that and in absence of help, we have our own enforcement officers,” Fenstermacher said.

The group helps residents trap, neuter and release the feral cats back into their natural habitats to help suppress the growth of the population.

On Tuesday, Animal Services will give City Council a progress report on the partnership.