City May Start Requiring Leashes for Cats

Cats will need leashes just like dogs if a proposal before the Kenai council in Alaska wins approval, the AP reports. Kenai Mayor Pat Porter and council member Tim Navarre have proposed a cat leash law after complaints from residents about roaming felines. According to the Peninsula Clarion, current city code does not include cats on its list of animals that need to be restrained. The proposed ordinance also cites complaints about the impact of a growing cat population on the Kenai Animal Shelter's resources. Kenai City Manager Rick Koch says shelter resources are sufficient. Some residents are concerned about compliance and whether the law will tax animal control resources. A hearing and vote is set for Oct. 5. (More cats stories.)