Internet debates single picture of a cat trapped in a cage

Furious debate has erupted over an Australian’s heartbreaking decision to put down a pet cat that was roaming the neighbourhood killing native wildlife.

A photo posted to Reddit shows a black cat captured in an animal trap moments from being shot dead.

The picture was shared as a reminder for owners to desex their felines and keep them indoors.

‘Have some sympathy for the guy that has to shoot this cute little thing. Desex your cat and keep them indoors,’ the post was captioned.

‘It’s not the first in the last month and it won’t be the last. They are a menace to both livestock and wildlife.’

This photo of a beloved pet in a cat trap serves as a timely reminder to pet owners 

The photo went viral and divided the internet with hundreds of comments within hours. Some agreed the cat should be shot dead.

‘It’s a sad reality but it needs to be done. A bullet is just as swift as an injection. I’d much rather see the end of all the feral cats in Australia than a rare migrant bird species that has a dwindling population due to said cats,’ one man commented.

Another added: ‘You are doing the Lord’s work mate. So disappointing to see others who have no idea how devastating feral cats impact has on our wild life. Keep it up mate, it’s not easy, but your kids will thank you.’

Others felt sorry for both the man and the cat.

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‘Not its fault it was born feral. Not your fault you have to do what’s necessary to protect the environment,’ one wrote.

‘It’s the idiots who don’t take responsibility of their pets that cause the problems. Desexing is a no-brainer, it’s a shame those who fail to do it aren’t held more responsible.’

But not everyone agreed that the cat should be killed with one describing it as a d*** move.

‘Unsure of location and how rural you are, but may be worth checking for a microchip before (literally) pulling the trigger,’ one person suggested.

The photo posted on Reddit divided the internet and attracted hundreds of comments

Another added: ‘It doesn’t look like its showing any fear or aggression. Ears are upright, pupils aren’t dilated, looks pretty calm. Yeah it’s cowering a bit but that’s probably to be expected.’

A third wrote: ‘That cat looks pretty healthy and clean for a ‘feral,’ so wouldn’t it be morally correct to take it to a shelter to be scanned for a chip? Shooting it seems like a d*** move.’

Many animal lovers and pet owners slammed irresponsible owners who let their cats roam outdoors.

Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world, according to the RSPCA.

Approximately 69 per cent of Australian households in Australia have pets with a third home to cats.

A number of councils across Australia have implemented strict cat curfews which include hefty fines for owners who let their kitty roam outdoors.

Cats kills thousands of native wildlife species each year (stock photo)