MAY 26

MAY 26, 2003
Culling cats will lead to rat problem

MAY I know the logic behind the aggressive culling of stray cats over the past few days?

There has been no proof that the spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome is linked to cats.

Besides, there will be a rat problem once the cats go.

I believe that this is the case at the Pasir Panjang Wholesale Centre, where stray cats were recently killed and some stall-holders have noticed an increase in the number of rats.

Rats are known to be notorious spreaders of all sorts of diseases.

Are we putting ourselves in more danger from unknown viruses without the stray cats to keep the population of rats in check?

Some may argue that pest control companies can be hired to get rid of the rats, but who will foot the bills?

The extra cleaning work being done is already expected to increase maintenance fees.

Are we killing our 'free' pest controllers and replacing them with something which will cost more and may be less effective?

JANE LEE