Gandalf wrote:

They often have beautiful cats, with the reason(s) on their cage card
for surrendering the cat listed as: 1) responsibility is too much. 2)
cannot afford 3)Takes too much time. And other mind numbingly stupid
reasons.

Whisky Tango Foxtrot: why did these idiots even GET a cat in the first
place? Cats need to be fed, at least twice a day. Their litter box needs
to be cleaned, usually once a day. They need regular vet care. Young
cats usually only needs vaccinations. But, just like people, they can
and do get sick, which requires vet care. Cats also require a certain
amount of attention. They are curious, and affectionate little beings;
they crave attention, in the form of petting, scritching, and playing.

THAT'S WHY PEOPLE GET A CAT. For the wonderful affection and company
they provide.

A lot of people have either never had a pet before, or perhaps grew up
with pets but didn't have to do any of the caretaking because the adults
did it, so they have no idea what it really takes. All they know is "Cute
kitty!!" - and they want one. I'm not convinced this makes them idiots,
but they are clearly uneducated about the realities.

Many shelters and rescue groups do try to provide that education before
letting people adopt, but if someone has never actually done it before,
then it's still pretty abstract. It's like, "Yeah, yeah, get them the
shots, scoop the litter, I get it - GIVE ME THE KITTY!" You wonder if
they're even listening. I think everyone should be required to show proof
that they've done X number of petsitting jobs (or shelter volunteer jobs)
before they can adopt.

Unfortunately, all too many people have *babies* for the same reason.

--
Joyce ^..^

(To email me, remove the X's from my user name.)