'Refrain from feeding' Emporia says don't feed wild cats

EMPORIA (KSNT) - The City of Emporia is telling citizens not to feed cats at a public park.

On Monday, April 15, the City of Emporia announced it would be partnering with the Emporia Street Cats Club to solve an issue plaguing Soden's Grove: feeding wild cats.

The City said citizens have been leaving cat food bags and containers at Soden's Grove. Because the park is so close to the David Traylor Emporia Zoo, it's creating an elevated risk to zoo animals.

"Over the past few months, well-meaning citizens have left an increasing number of empty cat food bags and containers at Soden’s Grove," the City of Emporia wrote on Facebook. "Due to the park’s proximity to the Emporia Zoo, this presents enhanced risks to zoo animals by drawing in unwanted wildlife."

Emporia officials said that in order to comply with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), it must ensure an environment free from wild or feral animals.

According to the social media post, the Street Cats Club will gradually relocate cats by moving their feeding stations away from Soden's Grove.

"Simultaneously, the Zoo will research humane stray cat deterrents recommended by the Street Cats Club," the City of Emporia wrote on Facebook. "Additionally, the Emporia Police Department is discussing ways for Animal Control Officers to collaborate with the Street Cats Club in support of their trap/neuter/return efforts throughout the city."

"If you encounter a stray cat, please refrain from feeding it and instead contact the Street Cats Club or local animal control for assistance," the city said.

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