Several organizations warn cat owners to keep their pets inside

The Calgary Humane Society, Calgary Police Service and Animal & Bylaw Services warn cat owners to keep their furry little friends indoors as there have been several incidents recently where cats have been found mutilated, severely injured or killed.

Twelve outdoor cats have had suspicious deaths in the past year and from the investigations done by the Calgary Humane Society Protections Officers all the deaths could have been prevented.

“While some cat owners will argue depriving a cat of outdoor freedom decreases its’ quality of life, the reality is quite the opposite,” Brad Nichols, Senior Manager, Animal Cruelty & Investigations said in a statement.

“Cats at large are also prime targets for cruelty, whether that be trapping and inappropriate disposal or easy targets for those looking to abuse animals.”

Allowing a cat to run outside free is an offense under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw.

Nichols wants cat owners to understand “there are a multitude of dangers posed to cats allowed to wander at will.”