Los Angeles Animal Shelters Report Increase in Cat and Kitten Euthanasia Due to Rising Intake
Los Angeles animal shelters have experienced a significant rise in the euthanasia rates of cats and kittens during the first half of the year. The increase is attributed to a surge in the number of animals brought to the shelters. From January to June, nearly 900 kittens were euthanized, marking a 43% increase compared to the same period last year. Similarly, the euthanasia of cats over eight weeks old rose by 32%, with 1,142 cats euthanized. Gabrielle Amster, general manager of L.A. Animal Services, noted that the influx of kittens, which increased by 30% in April, has overwhelmed the shelter system. The city has increased its budget for spay and neuter programs, but activists argue that more needs to be done to prevent births and reduce the number of animals entering shelters. 
