To beat prevalent reluctance to adopt cats
despite exploding stray population, activists are organising a
first-of-its-kind event in the country here
Priyam Bagga
Posted On Friday, October 18, 2013
It’s doggone unfair for cats when it comes to adoption — animal activists in the city claim a large section of pet lovers remain reluctant to adopt felines, especially compared to dogs. Adding to the problem is the fact that cat adoptions are not at par with dog adoptions, despite the exploding population of street cats in the city. Manoj Oswal, animal welfare officer at the Animal Welfare Board of India, said, “Private charges for cat sterilisation are as high as Rs 6,000 and there is no programme for this under the corporation or government. The number of kittens born on the streets is huge. The issue needs to be addressed.” In light of the prevailing attitude, Cats and Brats — an organisation that deals with animal sensitisation — is organising a first-of-its-kind in the country ‘Cat Carnival’ at the Serra International Preschool in Magarpatta on October 26. Sunil Dolwani, founder of Cats and Brats said, “This carnival is going to be a myth busting session. We are celebrating people who have taken the step to adopt and take care of cats.” Adding to the novelty of the event is an activity called the ‘cat walk’, where owners will compete with their cats walking on a ramp. Neha Vazirani, a member of Cats and Brats, said, “Cats and their parents will be judged on four criteria — the cutest kitten/cat, the best dressed one, an owner-cat lookalike contest, and the best catwalk.” Misconceptions about cats discourage people from adopting them, say activists. “When you say pets, many think of dogs. They think cats are too wild. Dogs are seen as loyal, but they believe cats will harm children, because they are associated with the big cat family. Cats might nibble but they don’t bite like dogs do,” added Dolwani. Aishwarya Vishwanath, an animal activist who started the blog www.adoptastraypune.blogspot.in, said, “People believe dogs can be cuddled and taken for walks, but not cats. Even though cats are extremely clean creatures, they are relegated as an unhygienic species.” Oswal added, “Dogs are adopted because they can be trained to guard. People think cats are not as interactive or playful, even though they are easier to manage. Cats also need much less attention. If you do the same to dogs, they could even develop behavioural issues. Any awareness programme that helps reduce the animals on the street is important. The novelty of the event may even lead to results,” he added. Activists said it is also important to raise awareness about Indian cats, and abolish silly superstitions. “Pedigree cats need air-conditioning and are not suited to Indian weather conditions, just like some dogs. Indian cats are resilient. It’s common for black cats to be ostracised — such perceptions need to change,” added Vishwanath. “A lot of counselling is required for people who adopt kittens, as compared to knowledge about dogs, know-how about cats is far less. For example, most cats like their own space,” said Ramona Collins, member of the Blue Cross Society. source |
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