ALDF, Cat Sanctuaries Ask California Fish and Wildlife to Regulate Hybrid “Franken-Cats”

These larger than average cats often grow up to spray, bite, and otherwise wreak havoc. Because of this, hybrid cats are at increased risk of abandonment by owners unprepared for their wild behavior. Animal shelters are hesitant to take these dangerous animals in because of the unlikelihood of their adoption. Public health concerns include increased aggressiveness and lack of an approved rabies vaccine. Native wildlife is also threatened by the presence of hybrid cats, who possess amplified hunting prowess. ALDF’s proposed amendments ensure that California’s regulation of hybrid cats, found in 14 C.C.R. § 671, follows the state legislature’s requirements to restrict wild animals who are a “menace to native wildlife” or whose possession threatens animal welfare under Cal. Fish & Game Code §§ 2118 & 2118(i).

“Some people are drawn to the idea of owning an exotic-looking animal, but breeding these undomesticated cats causes problems for wildlife and for public safety,” said Stephen Wells, executive director of the Animal Legal Defense Fund. “Wild animals should not be fads or status symbols, and there are too many tragic endings for the cats and for the families who purchase these high-priced hybrids bred for profit.”

Copies of the petition are available upon request.

http://aldf.org/press-room/press-releases/animal-legal-defense-fund-cat-sanctuaries-ask-california-fish-and-wildlife-to-regulate-hybrid-franken-cats/

http://aldf.org/