It is now illegal to leave food out for wild housecats in Westwego.
The new ordinance, passed by a five-nothing vote, went into effect October 15.
As it is written, there are various penalties for feeding and caring for feral cats.
"If you feed a feral cat, you become liable for that cat’s behavior," explained Jeff Dorson, executive director of the Humane Society of Louisiana explained.
Should that cat cause property damage, you can be cited and taken to court if you cannot control their behavior.
"The court can order, on the high end, incarceration of up to 6 months and/or a $500 fine," said Dorson.
Another regulation states residents must pick up the food and water daily so as not to attract other pets and wildlife, thereby creating a public nuisance.
A copy of the ordinance follows:
