Don’t Feed the Cats: Trap, Neuter and Return Effort Hampered at FOX 35

Richmond, Virginia (July 9, 2008) – The coalition of humane groups involved in a Trap, Neuter and Return project at a feral cat colony behind a Richmond television station is reminding the public to not hamper their effort by feeding the cats.

Thus far, 27 kittens and six adult cats have been recovered from the area behind WRLH-TV (FOX 35), in the 1900 block of Westmoreland Street in Henrico County.

“Our trapping has slowed somewhat, partially because of the heat and stress the cats have endured over the past week, but we also suspect people are feeding the cats” said Save Our Shelters Director of Cat Rescue Peggy Lynch. “The cats are being well cared for but it is important for people to understand that we need to be able to control the cats feeding schedule.”

Lynch said during the last few nights, the cats have seemed uninterested in the mackerel, tuna and chicken used to bait the humane traps. To a hungry cat, these types of treats are normally irresistible. Volunteers have also found food and feeding bowls in the area. She reminds well-meaning individuals that leaving food at the FOX cat colony location will only prolong the amount of time before these cats can be recovered and cared for.

The Richmond SPCA is providing spay or neuter, vaccinations, and other medical care to the cats recovered from the site by SOS and other organizations. Adult cats that are not socialized will be released back into their habitat and monitored as part of the “Trap, Neuter and Return” program. Kittens removed from the site are being socialized by SOS volunteers and offered for adoption to loving homes.

SOS has set up a blog, at saveourshelters.wordpress.com, where regular updates on the effort at FOX 35 as well as pictures from the scene are being posted.

Many of the kittens recovered from the FOX 35 colony, as well as other SOS cats and kittens, will be available for adoption on Sunday, July 13 from noon until 3 p.m. at Betty Baugh’s Animal Clinic, at 5322 Patterson Avenue in Richmond.

About Save Our Shelters
Founded in 1996, Save Our Shelters (SOS) is a registered 501(c)3 organization with a goal of ensuring the humane treatment of all animals. For more information on SOS, please visit www.saveourshelters.com.

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