Originally Posted by gaigai
Oh dear. I'm afraid you may not like my opinion. Here is my opinion: Cats are domestic animals just like dogs. They are NOT wild animals. Just as you wouldn't let your dog run loose, you should not let your cat run loose. And one of the main reasons is exactly what happened to your mom's cat, among a host of others. According to almost all animal experts I've ever read, and every vet I've had a relationship with, cats should be indoor animals only. If they are allowed outside, they should be supervised, or in an enclosure they cannot get out of.
I am very, very sorry this happened, but I believe that the full responsibility lies with the owner of the cat. And I do have both dogs and cats.
I agree 100%. Check your local ordinances. If they have a leash lawn . . . they almost certainly will have a "cat containment" law too. The only way to protect your pet (whether dog or cat) is to keep them CONTAINED (either in your fenced yard or on leash if dog and inside if cat). Now, you should brush up on the local ordinances and contact the authorities anytime you see dogs about in the neighborhood off-leash. Take photos, collect eye-witness accounts ect. Many times if the owner is fined for violations, they will learn their lesson and do the right thing with there roaming dogs.