Before regulatory laws were finally passed in the early 20th century, birds were indiscriminately killed globally for their feathers, to be used for fashion.
Unfortunately, birds are excluded from our present U.S. animal welfare act, and the demand for their feathers in fashion is again growing. This is partially occurring because the use of fur has plummeted, and people perceive use of feathers as more humane. It is not. Birds such as ostriches and peacocks are farmed and slaughtered for their feathers. These factory type farms are often overseas.
Peacock feathers are often used for cat toys, and can be easily purchased on Amazon. They are even used in animal shelters. The Humane Society does not approve of the use of these feathers because of the inhumane cruelty the birds must suffer for their procurement.
Please do not purchase clothes decorated with feathers, and don’t use peacock or other feather toys for your cats. If you see them being used in a shelter, please speak up.
Wendy Hollis
Agawam
