The Michigan City Animal Control Board is grappling with a growing feral cat crisis, as discussions during the September 24 meeting revealed alarming trends in the local cat population. Board members highlighted that public feeding of feral cats is exacerbating the issue, leading to increased reproduction rates and a surge in the number of cats on the streets.

One board member pointed out that the current trapping schedule is ineffective, as cats are often hiding during the day when traps are set. To combat this, they proposed adjusting the trapping hours to early morning when cats are more active and likely to be caught. The need for community cooperation was emphasized, with suggestions to distribute door hangers to educate residents about the importance of not feeding feral cats outside designated hours.

The board acknowledged the challenges posed by full kennels and the overwhelming number of cats, with one member stating, “It’s actually absurd. It’s concerning.” The situation has led to tensions in the community, with reports of residents threatening to harm the cats due to the growing population.

Despite the involvement of local organizations like Fries, which is assisting with cat hoarding situations, the board expressed frustration over the lack of resources and appointments available for spaying and neutering. The cost of these services, averaging around $100 per cat, poses a significant barrier for many residents.

As the board continues to seek solutions, the urgency of addressing the feral cat population remains clear. The next steps include increasing community outreach and potentially recruiting more volunteers to assist with the TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) efforts, as the board strives to regain control over the escalating situation.