To the editor:

We were not able to access the online survey about the trap/neuter/vaccinate/release (TNVR) program on feral cat colonies. Therefore, we are writing this letter.

We have owned two cats for nine of the 12 years we have lived in Lawrence. They were indoor cats that were only allowed to be in our backyard, which was fenced.

Cats that roam and are trapped but are not adopted should not be released. Similarly, dogs that are roaming, caught and not adopted are not released. Why aren’t there licenses for both dogs and cats to help defray costs of catching strays? Vaccinations for communicable diseases such as rabies should be mandatory for mammalian pets.

We oppose the TNVR program for the following reasons: free-roaming cats kill birds, prey on reptiles, amphibians and small mammals. Feral and stray cats are reservoirs of diseases for pet cats, other wildlife and humans. The parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is found in cats, can be transmitted to humans. Pregnant women are susceptible, and the parasite can infect the fetus.

Some veterinarians might favor the TNVR program because it will give them more income from vaccinations and neutering.

Carol and Dave Kyner,

Lawrence