Before this story gets blown further out of proportion,
the assertion that killing a cat somehow constitutes a federal crime ought to trigger the BS meter of everyone on this board. Congress has no inherent police powers; it uses - and seriously ABUSES - the Commerce Clause to effect its desired results.
Unless it can be shown that treatment of stray cats in some way, shape, manner or form affects INTERSTATE COMMERCE, there is no basis for federal involvement. I think the claim that this is a "federal felony" is absurd on its face.
As for those who think such acts can be dismissed because prisons are full of "real criminals," a reality check: Studies show that sociopaths BEGIN by abusing small animals and their own pets, move up to larger victims and end up attacking humans. Early intervention protects us all.
"I did when I had the cat lady from hell as a next door neighbor in the city 10 years ago. She did not take care of the cats she just broke open a 20 lb bag of cat food in her yard everyday and dozens of them came running, alon with some king sized rats, who waited for some of the cats to leave. The smell was horrendous in the summer time, especially when they climbed up and sprayed on my flat roof at night."
You have just described a textbook example of NUISANCE. This is actionable on your part, AND by a complaint to your board of health, as well as your mayor, town manager, selectmen or whomever. The issues of health and property values give you a direct cause of action. Never mind the animal officer; go to the top!