Chief Asks Residents Not to Feed Stray Cats

If a cute kitty cat comes crying at the back doorstep, it may be tempting for some residents to put out a bowl of milk or a dish filled with cat food for the stray feline.

However, Hellertown Police Chief Robert Shupp said June 4 that borough residents should resist the temptation to feed strays.

Over the past few years the number of stray cats in the borough has appeared to decline, and the population will remain small if residents avoid leaving treats outside, which only encourages more strays to move into the area, Shupp said.

A few stray cats have been spotted recently in the vicinity of the , it was noted.

One of those cats is currently being cared by a local resident who described the stray as "beautiful." She asked anyone who's recently had a cat go missing in Hellertown to contact her at 610-838-1168 with identifying details.

The borough does not have a formal plan in place for dealing with stray cats, although near the on West Walnut Street.

Many communities have instituted "trap-neuter-return" programs for dealing with stray cat populations.

Shupp advised residents who lose a pet to report it missing by contacting the Northampton County 911 Center by calling the center's non-emergency number, which is 610-759-2200.