- Initiative Propels Call for Nationwide Cat Welfare Legislation
To improve the situation of homeless cats in Thuringia, the local animal welfare organization is advocating for a broad-spectrum cat welfare law across the state. They've already initiated a matching petition. "Our aim is to acquire at least 1,500 signatures by September 30, leading to a hearing in the Petitions Committee," the organization shared.
The proposed state law would incorporate, among other things, a requirement for sterilization, identification, and registration of outdoor cats. "Unspayed cats, whether from private homes or roaming freely, significantly contribute to unchecked reproduction," said Kevin Schmidt, head of the Thuringia animal welfare organization. "We urge all cat owners to neuter their pets to manage the cat population and consequently alleviate the suffering of stray cats."
Stray cats typically survive by their own means, faced with battles against diseases, parasites, and malnutrition, as per the organization. A "chip" rule also seems reasonable: veterinarians implant microchips with identification numbers into pet cats, facilitating the return of lost pets to their owners.
At present, Thuringia's counties and independent cities have the authority to issue their own "cat welfare" ordinances. Sadly, not all municipalities avail of this option. The desired statewide legislation, championed by the animal welfare organization, has yet to materialize.
The National Animal Welfare Association, to which the Thuringia group belongs, opposes criticism that enforcement of a sterilization requirement is impossible. The animal protectors assert that few laws are fully enforceable. However, a law would enhance social control by having veterinarians and animal welfare organizations remind owners of the sterilization requirement.
The following advocacy by the Thuringia animal welfare organization includes a goal of acquiring 1,500 signatures by September 30 for a cat welfare law that incorporates sterilization requirements. The organization also supports a "chip" rule for pet cats, which involves implanting microchips with identification numbers.
