Results
Title |
Author | Citation | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Public Policy Toward the Management of Feral Cats | Shawn Gorman and Julie Levy | 2 Pierce L. Rev. 157 (June 2004) |
This paper examines the current wildlife laws, both federal and state, to determine what laws may apply to managing the feral cat population. It begins with a determination of how domestic cats are classified under these laws. Since many laws are vague, the intent of the legislatures is investigated to determine if domestic cats were meant to be defined as a non-indigenous species. The focus then shifts to indicate ways to control the feral domestic cat population. |
| Animals v. Animals: A False Choice | Wendy Anderson and Amy Vaniotis | ABA Animal Law Committee Newsletter |
This article examines the recent policy trend that pits animal against animal. In particular, the article focuses on the argument that feral cats are a major contributing factor to the demise of many wild bird species. The authors contend that human population growth and encroachment into wildlife habitat is the root cause of species loss, and our attempt to blame an adaptive species like the cat avoids responsibility. Further, the authors suggest that animal lawyers in particular must be aware of this "diversionary tactic" and attempt to refocus the policy debate on the real causes of animal death. (Reprinted with permission.) |
| Behind a Glass, Darkly | Jennifer L. Tilden | 2 Journal of Animal Law 143 (2006) |
As wild populations of big cats continue to decline precipitously, concerns about the ethical and environmental considerations of keeping cats for entertainment have increased exponentially. The plight of the big cat has been brought forcibly into the international media spotlight following high profile incidents like the tiger attack on Roy Horn at Las Vegas’ Mirage Casino. However, for every big cat whose instinct makes the national news, many suffer in silence, sacrificed to entertain the masses. Often, this cruelty to animals is rationalized under the wide net of “education,” since many people still believe there is valuable information to be gained from viewing animals trapped behind bars. |
| Biological Overview of the Domestic Cat | Anthony E. LaCroix | Animal Legal and Historical Center |
The domestic cat can be traced to the African Wild Cat. The species became close to humans in ancient Egypt. Cats are athletic and agile, which contributes to their skill as predators. |
| Brief Summary of Feral Cat and Wild Bird Controversy | Ariahna Sanchez | Animal Legal & Historical Center | This summary briefly covers the factors contributing to the feral cat crisis. It also outlines the factors that may result in population increases of free-roaming cats. The summary then concludes by exploring the shift in focus, which now views them as "community cats," and how this enhanced caretaking has led to unintended predation on bird populations and competition with other native mammals. |
| Brief Summary of Feral Cat Legal Issues | David Fry | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This overview discusses state laws that impact feral cats. The article analyzes the concept of "ownership" as it concerns feral cats, and outlines some of the legal considerations for feral cat caretakers. |
| Brief Summary of Feral Cat Population Control | Anthony E. LaCroix | Animal Legal and Historical Center |
This is a brief overview of feral cat population issues. Opposing viewpoints on cat control are presented. Issues of legal liability for cat predation are explored. |
| Brief Summary of State Cat Laws | Cynthia F. Hodges | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
Most state cat laws deal with anti-cruelty and health concerns, such as requiring rabies vaccinations. A majority of states address over-population by requiring shelters to sterilize animals they adopt out, but otherwise consider free-roaming and feral cats to be a local issue. Local governments deal with the problems associated with these cats, such as nuisance, trespass, property damage, and destruction of native wildlife. |
| Community Cats: Changing the Legal Paradigm for the Management of So-Called “Pests” | Joan E. Schaffner | 67 Syracuse L. Rev. 71 (2017) | Recognizing that the science, policy, and law involving the different animal “pests” are unique, the approach to changing the traditional paradigm is largely the same. Although the debate continues surrounding free-roaming cats, the approach of cat advocates to turn the tide away from deeply entrenched lethal methods of animal control provides an interesting and useful case study on how to alter the political, scientific, and legal paradigm in favor of respecting animal life for all animals deemed “pests.” |
| Detailed Discussion of Emerging Issues in Municipal Ordinances | Jacqueline M. Logan | Animal Legal & Historical Center |
This paper will discuss those emerging areas that have recently cropped up in many municipalities throughout the United States and how municipalities have addressed these areas through passing of ordinances. Mandatory spay and neutering, feral cat management, declawing, retail sales of pets, breeding licenses, and tethering laws will be discussed, including the strengths and weaknesses of each ordinance. Additionally, suggestions for municipalities for how to construct their own ordinances in each of these areas are included. |