First state to require cat neutering

[Grace]

I just came across this at Best Friends -

Gov. Don Carcieri signed a law on June 9, 2006 making Rhode Island the first state in the nation to require cat owners to spay or neuter their pets.
Cat owners must spay or neuter pets older than six months unless they pay $100 for a breeder's license. Violators can be fined $75 per month.

"By signing this legislation today, we are taking the necessary steps to reduce the number of impounded cats that are euthanized in cities and towns throughout the state," Carcieri said in a written statement.

The law would also save money by cutting down on housing and feeding costs at city shelters, he added.

Private shelters and municipal pounds in Rhode Island killed about 1,600 strays in 2004, the most current figure available, according to the state Department of Environmental Management.

Some animal-rights advocates worried that the bill could lead cat owners to abandon their pets rather than risk a fine or pay for the procedures.

Under the law, low-income pet owners would be eligible for subsidies for low-cost surgery. Farmers are exempt.

[Jessika]

FINALLY! I hope others will follow their example!

[QueenScoopalot]

"Some animal-rights advocates worried that the bill could lead cat owners to abandon their pets rather than risk a fine or pay for the procedures."

That line right there is my biggest fear. I don't think any shelter in this country should allow animals out the door with out first having them spayed/neutered, and I'd love to see the day that landlords make it manditory to have your pets fixed (if they allow them). Many of the cats I pick up are from slumlord areas where as long as they get the rent, they don't care if Fluffy & Studly aren't fixed and on the streets. It's a great idea if it works, but there's plenty of persons that refuse to fix their pets even if it's for free.

[Laura's Babies]

I hope other states follow and we can put a end to the madness of having so many unwanted and having them euthanized. That cycle of having a cat, letting her have kittens, dumping Mom and kittens and keeping one until it has kittens and keep going in that cycle that so many do.

[catmandu]

They have to do something as the flood of unwanted Cats and Dogs is getting out of hand,
I wish I knew what the solution would be.
My neighbors lost thier feamale Kitten, rehomed by the AWA and I, and now they have an unfixed Male,
roaming loose.
I put food out For Ralphie, but if he gets the females that are running loose pregnant, that starts the ball rolling.
Its a matter of responsibilty.
And noones responsible anymore.

[Grace]

Some animal-rights advocates worried that the bill could lead cat owners to abandon their pets rather than risk a fine or pay for the procedures.

This also bothers me - but I also look at this as a start. Better something, than nothing. I also took notice as Rhode Island is where my heart is - having grown up and gone to school there.