Columnist got it wrong on male cats

Ed Madan’s column in the Sept. 6, 2012, issue of the Bee targets cats, and male cats in particular, considering them “very destructive to a home, especially to its walls and flooring, “ and difficult and expensive to clean up after.

As a cat owner for 33 years here in Bonner County, who has owned 18 different cats — all spayed and neutered — and fostered some 20 other cats who were abandoned, abused or neglected, I have never once confronted the problems, even with kittens, that Madan seems to consider a common situation. Cats have an innate sense of cleanliness, and they are the only pets that actually bury their wastes. Of course, a tom cat sprays to mark territory for breeding purposes, and irresponsible and filthy pet owners do exist. But I know dozens of cat owners who are healthy and easily care for beautiful animals.

The fact is that if you are a tenant like I am, it’s nearly impossible to find a rental home or apartment in our area that will allow you to have a cat. I recently had to move and it took months for me to find a landlord who would accept my cats, despite excellent references. Also count on paying very high security deposits, usually non-refundable.

Research shows that owning a companion animal is healthy for people, especially the elderly, disabled, lonely and young. Madan’s “advice” only lends to more homeless pets and over-crowded animal shelters in our area.

JANE FRITZ

Sandpoint