Stanislaus nonprofits ask for help with feral cat problems
When it comes to cat overpopulation, Stanislaus County nonprofits are calling for help.
Megan Scoullar, director of adoption services for the Astro Foundation, said the nonprofit spays and neuters over a thousand animals each year. The organization serves areas like Oakdale, Escalon and Riverbank.
Another nonprofit was recently called out to John Thurman Field, home of the Modesto Nuts for an issue involving multiple cats that kept having litters.
"When they can't get fixed and they start multiplying, that's really when it starts becoming an issue," said Connor Skustad, director of operations for the Modesto Nuts.
The organization spayed and rehomed dozens of cats, leaving the stadium with just three.
"Couple of cats really aren't bad," Skustad said. "They're actually a benefit to our business here."
Other areas in the county are a glaring reminder of the consequences of overpopulation. One group of friends frequents an area infamous for its cat population — estimated to be home to roughly 200 animals.
"The cat problem is just, it's insane at this point," Elise Canella said.
Stanislaus County Animal Services Agency low-cost clinics spay cats for just $25 when they have availability. The agency said it could only spay and neuter a handful of animals per month after running out of grant funding for the project in 2019.
Residents expressed their frustrations with the lack of funding for low-cost clinics back in November during a cat meeting hosted by Modesto City Councilman Chris Ricci.
Now, Ricci has a different idea for funding.
"We need to get them more revenue, right? And so when you license your pet, that gives the county revenue, and so when you have more revenue, we can hire more vets," Ricci said.
It is an issue that, without a solution, will only continue to grow.
"It's having an organization that's structured enough to put it in place, to have the space for a vet clinic, have the staff for a vet clinic. Quite frankly, in my opinion, it is doable. It takes money and organization," Scoullar said.
