Stray cats becoming a focused issue

Almost on the heels of my complaint about Bakersfield Magazine’s near-complete exclusion of cats from their recent “pets issue”, the Colorado Springs Gazette has published an article about the second-class status of cats they see occurring in their region.

"Throwaway cats": Strays are often forgotten

High number of homeless cats may indicate lack of caring

July 6, 2008

BY CAROL MCGRAW, THE GAZETTE

Niko is a fine cat. He enthusiastically greets guests, meows appreciatively when he gets attention, adores playing chase the laser light. He is litter box tidy and helpfully tries to assist when his human companions read books and send e-mail. He has handsome golden eyes, soft gray fur and Russian Blue features.

Jack and Sue Majors adopted Niko in May at the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region after seeing his photo online and then visiting him.

After all, they say, who wouldn't love this cat?

Apparently, not his former owner, who never bothered to search for him at the Humane Society when he strayed, according to shelter officials.

For the rest of the story, head here.

Again, I have to ask: Why have cats become such completely expendable animals, barely worthy of our attention?