“There is little to no difference in the physical appearance of feral, stray, and pet cats. Though the contest organizers noted that any participants would be disqualified for harming a microchipped cat, animal rights groups still expressed significant concern that pets would be hurt and also general alarm at the idea of enlisting children to cull animals. “Disgusting group of sadists,” said another. “What kind of sick nut job encourages kids to kill cats? Training the future criminals of tomorrow.Worst idea ever!” wrote one incensed poster. 15 out of 16 of the written reviews are strong critiques of the cat contest. On Facebook, the event page currently has a 1.3 star rating. However, basically as soon as the competition was introduced, criticism poured in. The most successful child would have won a $250 NZD prize (equivalent to about $155 USD), according a now-removed weekend post from the event organizers, the Guardian reports. The plan was for kids to compete to off the highest number of invasive felines. This year was the first time that the feral cat category was introduced. Participants pay to enter, and category winners receive small payouts. The event is an annual community fundraiser for a local elementary school and swimming pool. The now-defunct plans for a youth cat killing spree came as part of the wider North Canterbury Hunting Competition. People were so incensed by the plan to have kids hunt feral cats, they reportedly sent threatening messages to an elementary school.
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