Statement on SMU feral cat program

To support the health and well-being of our campus community, it has become necessary for SMU to plan safe and humane measures to reduce its feral cat population. The University is not taking action at this time but will work with feral cat program volunteers toward this goal.

Concerns about animals in urban areas include overpopulation and the risk of diseases transmitted by insects such as fleas, which have increased throughout the region in part due to the heavy spring rains. As a result, several SMU facilities required extensive treatment this summer to prepare for the fall term. At the same time, the feeding stations for SMU’s feral cat population can attract other wild animals.

SMU has sponsored its feral cat program for several years. However, changes must be made to meet our top priority, the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff.