Regarding Pittsfield’s problem with stray cats in the article, “Stray cat defenders expected at Pittsfield meeting” (BDN, Jan. 3-4), there is an alternative to shooting, trapping and killing trespassing cats. Alley Cat Allies is an organization organized expressly to help communities solve issues involving stray and feral cats.

ACA works with local people to capture stray cats and have them vaccinated and neutered. Adaptable animals are offered for adoption. Adults, who can fend for themselves, are released into appropriate areas where volunteers ensure they are fed and sheltered. Because the cat population does not increase the number is manageable.

Pittsfield has a less than stellar reputation where cats are concerned. About 10 years ago, there was the mass gassing of 26 cats with diesel fumes though their deceased owner had properly stipulated in his will that the cats were to be humanely euthanized by a local veterinary clinic. He had even set aside funds to cover the cost.

Then there were the teenagers who tortured and killed a cat by shooting him at least four times with a BB gun, dragging him by the tail behind a car for a mile before running over him twice and throwing him into a snowbank. They returned the next day and played kickball with his frozen body.

For years, Portland’s waterfront cat population has been well controlled by a group called Friends of Feral Felines. The group can be contacted at friends- offeralfelines@hotmail.com.

Alley Cat Allies can be reached at 202-667-3630 or visit its Web site at alleycat@alleycat.org.

Linn Pulis

Gardiner