Jill Thomas and many others like her in Natchez care for the innocent and helpless animals that live around them. They are simply unable to see animals in need without working to help.

In recent weeks, several of the cats for which Thomas provides care — and which she considers her pets — have gone missing. Two cats have returned to her in the last week with horrifying injuries — hair and skinned rubbed away on their necks and backs — and in obvious pain. The pet of another of Thomas’s neighbors in the Morgantown area of Natchez has also come home recently with similar neck injuries.

By all indications, the cats have fallen victim to a wire “kill” trap. In short, the trap works by ensnaring the animal in a wire noose. The more the animal struggles to free itself, the tighter the noose grips until the animal is strangled and dies.

The use of kill traps on unwanted animals is without question cruel.

It’s also against the law.

Thomas has filed reports with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, and a spokesman for that department said the cases are being taken seriously and pursued as a threat to public safety.

Not everyone loves animals. Humane traps are available to safely catch unwanted pets, which can then be taken to the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society. Those who live in the City of Natchez can call the Natchez Animal Control at (601)- 442-6452 for more information on how to safely catch stray animals.

But the best way to help reduce the population of stray, feral and free-roaming animals is to have your pet spayed or neutered. The Humane Society can provide information about low-cost options for those procedures. You can reach them at (601)-442-4001.

Harming unwanted animals is never the answer. It’s just wrong.

Thomas, others who are like-minded and law enforcement officers are working to find those who are causing this pain and suffering and make certain they are brought to justice. If you know anything that may help law enforcement officers with their investigation, please call them and offer to help.