[Cheeks]

I see an alarming number of questions from people who cannot afford basic veterinary care for their cat. They come online here, expecting us to be able to treat their cat, even asking advice for how to put a dying cat out of its misery. Is it too much to ask to assess the cost of care before taking on a pet? Doesn't anyone realize how irresponsible it is to not properly care for an animal?

[Jennifer M]

People do the same thing with children too.

[Chicago's 1st Lady]

I dont think its about not being able to care for the animals, maybe they could just use advice from other people. I have 2 cats, and I dont have a lot of money. I am a full time student who doesnt work. But there are plenty of places I can and do go to get Vet care, in fact they provide great services for free if not its at a discounted rate.

[3cats]

I hear you. I don't know what to think of some of these people. If one of my cats even looks at me funny, I take her to the vet. How can people have animals and not provide medical care for them when they need it or waste time posting questions on this website when their animal is seriously ill instead of rushing them to the vet? Where is their common sense?

[Spottedfire]

I guess because they can. Also, many, many cats are out there without a home. I guess it's better to give the poor thing some shelter and love than to keep it out on the streets. Especially if it's an outdoor cat, because then it can hunt for its food. Water shouldn't be a problem to come by. I guess the only problem would be vet care, but the cat would be in a much worse condition if it was left on the streets. I think that if you have the money to care for your cat, you should, otherwise it's just cruel.

[Sherry]

It's a shame how irresponsible people can be. No one should take a pet if they can't care for it. caring involves more than just food and water. A lot of people thinks it's going to be just that easy. This is why it seems the cats are so neglected. People have the crazy idea the cat takes care of itself. I had a neighbor once tell me he didn't worry about his cat when he went on vacation. He just put his cat outside and let it fend for itself for 2 weeks while gone. After a couple years the cat never came back home. This is another reason you see so many wild alley cats.

[Alleycat]

AMEN TO THAT! I don't understand how people can be so selfish and cruel. It also comes down to laziness. If you are resourceful, you can find a way to get your cat veterinary care...get a 2nd job, beg, borrow, and barter. Research rescue organizations that will help you. This is why I like my cats more than most people.

[pj m]

The problem lies with people thinking that these types of animals can fend for themselves in the wild. They allow them to run free all day and night. I don't understand what companionship can be earned from keeping a pet outside most of its life. Domesticated animals do not do well in the wild. They just don't realize what's bad and what's not. It's the same with dogs. People buy or acquire dogs that are rather big and allow them to run free over the neighborhood. They chase bikes, cars, bark at people, do their duties all over your lawn. Now it's time to mow that lawn. Guess what? Yuk!Yes, someone here said they do the same with children. Oh, that person is so right. We can talk ourselves blue in the face, but it's not going to change.

[joyfulspirit@rogers.com]

I agree. I think too many people fail to realize the scope of their responsibilities when they adopt a pet. They think it's a 1-way street with the pet being all about what it does for them. Too many people don't seem to realize their responsibilities in having a pet.We have taken in many rescue dogs over the years, and we've just taken in our first rescue cat (now being in the position to do so). We've also done short-term temp rescues of a number of other animals from guinea pigs to birds to reptiles. Sadly, too many people don't understand the concept of a "pet" or a "domestic animal." These are animals that rely upon us -- and when we fall short, they suffer!!There is much to be gained from having a pet -- but it's a huge responsibility too. People need to recognize that...c..