Editors note: This opinion-piece does not represent the opinion of Beaver’s Digest but rather it reflects the personal opinions and observations of the writer
Forget the beavers, Corvallis might secretly belong to the local cats.
If you’re ever wondering about the neighborhoods near Oregon State University, you might come in contact with one of the local cats.
Although these cats are dangerously adorable, many have wondered why they are out in the streets. And why so many of them?
One issue Jonny Mills, Co-Owner of RAD pets affordable surgery, speaks about when it comes to the overpopulation of cats is the cost of regular vet care.
“We wanted to offer realistic prices,” Mills said. “Our processes allow us to do a lot more animals, which allows us to charge lower prices.”
RAD pets is a surgical and dental clinic here in Corvallis that offers pets fast treatment, not only for cats but also for dogs.
When walking around Corvallis, you might spot a cat or two, some old, some young.
When speaking to Jonny Mills about cat overpopulation, he said, “Because we offer affordable spray neuter, we help the community a lot.”
It’s important to note that if you ever come across a stray cat, check whether it has an owner before taking it to a clinic.
“That can be a caution for the community to be careful not to try and medically care for someone else’s cat,” Mills said. “The first thing I would do is check if it has a microchip.”
These cats are getting pretty paw-pular around OSU, with multiple sightings on campus and in the neighborhoods.
Not all strays are friendly; it’s another good reminder to make sure the cat is calm and comfortable before reaching to pet it.
If you’re ever wondering how you can help these local cats, Jonny Mills speaks about Trap and rescue.
Trap and rescue allows the community to capture an animal in distress, take it to one of the town’s clinics for proper treatment, and then return it to the community.
It’s essential for the community to offer support to these cats, since they help so many community members daily.
Just by being a cat, they can help our community by reducing rodent issues and assisting sad students who miss their cats at home.
If you’re ever missing your cat from home, take a walk through the neighborhood on a dry day, and you’re sure to see some feline friends.
