International Cat Day, IPB University Lecturer Reveals Negative Impacts of Releasing Cats Into the Wild

Ever had the dilemma of releasing your cat into the wild? On the one hand, you feel it’s no longer possible to care for your cat, but on the other hand, your conscience holds guilt about letting them go.

Coinciding with International Cat Day, which is celebrated every August 8, the practice of releasing pet cats into the wild is not the right solution.

IPB University academic, drh Tetty Barunawati Siagian, said that this action can cause various long-term negative impacts, both for animals, humans and the environment.

In a written interview received by IPB Today (8/6), drh Tetty emphasized that releasing cats without sterilization and supervision can cause a population explosion.

“Cat overpopulation has the potential to cause an animal welfare crisis due to limited food, shelter and attention. As a result, cats become hungry, thin, and sick,” said the lecturer of Veterinary Paramedic Study Program, Vocational School of IPB University.

She also revealed that released pet cats can trigger social conflicts. These cats often enter people’s homes, litter, and make noise during mating season. This has the potential to disrupt community comfort and trigger acts of animal abuse.

Another concern is the increased risk of zoonotic diseases. “Feral cats can be a source of pollution due to littering and have the potential to transmit diseases to humans,” she explained.

drh Tetty also highlighted environmental pollution due to odor pollution and disturbance to wildlife. Free-living cats have the potential to prey on birds, reptiles and insects that are important for the balance of the ecosystem.

In addition, the increasing number of feral cats poses a financial burden to the government and animal-loving community. This is partly due to increased public and shelter costs.

“The government and the community have to spend a lot of money to manage the feral cat population. However, this will still not be solved if the source of the problem (release) is not stopped. In addition, animal shelters and volunteers are overwhelmed with cat rescues and sterilizations,” she added.

According to her, the act of releasing cats is not a form of freedom, but the beginning of a new cycle of suffering. “If owners are not responsible, they are not freeing their pets, but creating endless new problems,” she said. (dh) (IAAS/RWA)