Question
Hi! My roommates, neighbors, and I have been taking care of several neighborhood cats. We have all purchased food for them at different times, but I bought the outdoor cat house, treats, and toys. I spent many days bonding with one cat in particular and allowed him to come into my room, where we bonded even more. He got used to waiting for me on the porch and coming into my room at night to sleep under my bed. I also have pictures of him.
I recently found out that my roommate took him to be neutered (although I am not sure if that is true) and then gave him away to someone else. My questions are: Can I file a police report, and can I get the cat back?
Thank you for your time.
Answer
Most importantly, I hope the cat is doing well and is in a loving, forever home (and kept indoors where it is safer). I am happy to hear that the cat has been neutered. Spaying and neutering greatly help to reduce the population of dogs and cats (and other animals) and the tragic consequences of overpopulation.
Without proof of “parenthood,” such as an adoption/purchase agreement or veterinary records, it may be difficult for you to prove your “parenthood” of what you described as “neighborhood cats.”
I cannot say whether the police will take a report or do anything about the situation you described but I doubt it. People who believe that their animal was wrongfully taken or wrongfully rehomed can commence a civil lawsuit to try to get the animal returned. Consider, however, that your roommate, who shared in taking care of the cats, took control of the situation, at least with the cat in question, by having the cat neutered, thus preventing the birth of many more homeless kittens.
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