I am pleased to inform residents about a collaborative program involving Town of Hempstead residents and a volunteer organization known as P.A.W.S. (Pioneers for Animal Welfare Society).

Through this program, promoted by Hempstead Town, P.A.W.S. offers residents free spaying/neutering for up to three cats during the months of April, May and June.

The spaying of female cats and the neutering of male cats has multiple benefits. The most significant benefits associated with these surgical procedures relate to behavior and health. Spayed cats are less likely to develop cancer or potentially fatal infections.

For example, spaying a female before her first heat eliminates the possibility of uterine and ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the risk of breast cancer. In addition, once a female cat is spayed, it is less likely to attract male cats.

Neutered cats are less inclined to suffer infections or disorders in the reproductive or prostate glands. They are also less likely to develop disorders, which may lead to kidney disease. Alteration of the male helps eliminate the problem of spraying.

In addition, cats that have been spayed or neutered are three times less likely to bite and are less inclined to roam, fight with other animals or exhibit anxious or aggressive behavior. In many cases, the cat becomes more affectionate.

One of the leading reasons to have cats spayed or neutered is that there are more cats being born than there are homes for them. Spaying and neutering cats helps limit this overpopulation.

I encourage all residents who own cats or who have stray cats by their homes to take advantage of this opportunity to have up to three cats spayed or neutered. Please note that P.A.W.S. will pay for the surgical procedure only. Any other mandated fees are the responsibility of the client. Those who would like further information can call (516) 364-PAWS.

Clients are asked to send a self-addressed, stamped envelope and the number, gender and age of the cats to P.A.W.S., P.O. Box 861, Hicksville, N.Y. 11802. A voucher for a participating veterinarian will then be mailed to the requestor.