Ear-Tipped Cat Already Sterilized

There’s usually nothing to worry about if you see a cat with a clipped ear. Having a pet can be good for kids.

Ear-tipping alerts other volunteers that the cat is sterilized. Barbarajo/Shutterstock

Q: A new friend invited me to her home, and I was surprised that one of her cats was missing an ear tip. What was left of the ear looked normal, except that it had been cut in a straight line. I’m wondering: Is this woman in a cult that tortures cats, and should I report her to the authorities?

A: You should start by talking with her. Ask her why her cat’s ear tip was cut off in a straight line.