NACA rejects the argument that cats are wildlife, and adopts the policy described for dogs. Public health concerns include the threat of rabies or other diseases from cat-inflicted bites or scratches. Damage to property and overpopulation results in the degradation of community appearance and sanitation. NACA cites the pet - food industry as one example of American's society's classification of cats as domestic animals.
Cats share people' s lives, homes, and hearts as proven companion animals.
Cat ownership, then, should require responsibility for their welfare and owner responsibility to the general public. Cat licensing also extends to owners the benefits or legal ownership, a valuable means of identification, and services that cats considered as wildlife might not otherwise be afforded. Licenses considered as permits may be revoked for specific violations. NACA recommends that licensing programs be designed to provide a fast, efficient means of identifying cats and their owners. Licensing records can be easily maintained via a central, local registry.