In a recent incident on August 27, a stray cat was found precariously perched above the Metro tracks on Exposition Boulevard, amid a sweltering 97-degree day. Colin Nguyen, a law student set to graduate in 2025, encountered the feline and attempted to assist it but was met with hisses. Concerned for its safety, Nguyen felt helpless without a cat trap or knowledge of local resources. After contacting animal control, he learned they could not intervene, as the cat was classified as “free-roaming.” The next day, the cat had vanished after accepting only water and turkey scraps from Nguyen.
Los Angeles is home to nearly one million “community cats,” according to L.A. Animal Services. In 2020, a citywide program was launched to manage these populations through methods like Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), which involves capturing cats, neutering them, and releasing them back into their environment. Some cats may be feral, while others are lost pets or outdoor dwellers, often identifiable by the tips of their ears being cut.
Skyler Nahouray, a junior and president of USC’s Humane Society chapter, has witnessed an increase in students seeking help for strays. “We’ve received numerous inquiries from students who find stray cats near their homes,” he noted. The Humane Society advises building trust with the animal before contacting local organizations, such as the Stray Cat Alliance.
Kitty Bungalow-Charm School for Wayward Cats, located near USC, is another crucial resource. This organization focuses on TNR and cares for cats suffering from illness or injury. Executive Director Toni Barrett emphasizes that feral cats are particularly elusive. “They’re smart and adept at hiding,” she said, advising that friendly cats can be approached cautiously.
Nguyen may have encountered a “Coli cat,” part of a colony at the L.A. Coliseum, where Kitty Bungalow conducts TNR as a pest control measure. These cats help manage local rodent populations, although they tend to stay hidden during large events.
Organizations like Kitty Bungalow are dedicated to improving the lives of community cats, ensuring they can either be adopted or live safely on the streets. The L.A. Department of Animal Services also offers spay and neuter vouchers for residents. However, Barrett highlights a significant challenge: the scarcity of veterinarians and clinics willing to perform TNR procedures. “While resources exist, accessing them can be difficult,” she stated.
As awareness of community cats grows, so too does the network of support for these animals, highlighting the commitment of individuals and organizations to protect their well-being.
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