Rhode Island has become the first state to require that owners spay or neuter their cats

Rhode Island has become the first state in the nation to require cat owners to spay or neuter their pets.

Governor Carcieri signed the bill into law Friday.

It requires cat owners to spay or neuter pets older than six months unless they pay $100 for a breeder's license or permit for an intact animal.

Violators will be fined $75 per month.

Under the law, low-income pet owners would be able to receive subsidies for low-cost spay and neuter surgery.

Farmers are exempt.

Supporters of the law say it will save thousands of cats from being killed each year. The governor says it will also save money because it will cut down on housing and feeding costs at city animal shelters.