I don't have any kids; 4 cats, though. They lead comfortable lives and kill rodents but I really don't envision myself serving a life sentence for any of them.
Last year I had a bear wander into my back yard on several occasions. It was very destructive and on one visit it got very close to the screened patio door.
According to the Wisconsin DNR (Department of Natural Resources) or as they are refered to around here, Damned Near Russia, had I killed the bear I would have been subject to hundreds of dollars in fines, confiscation of my firearms, and revocation of my hunting license.
These are the same people who promote killing cats.
The logic escapes me.