Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the practice of humanely trapping free-roaming cats, spay or neutering, vaccinating for rabies, and eartipping. Healthy cats are then returned to their colonies to live out their lives without producing kittens or being a nuisance. The cats are managed by a caretaker who provides food, water, shelter, and any needed vet care.

 

TNR is the most humane and cost effective approach for stray and feral cats. Now in practice for decades in the U.S. after being proven in Europe, scientific studies show that TNR improves the lives of feral cats, improves their relationships with the people who live near them, and decreases the size of colonies over time.  Spaying and neutering improves the lives of the cats by preventing certain cancers, relieving constant stresses of mating and pregnancy.  Mating behaviors cease like roaming, yowling, spraying,  and fighting and unwanted kittens being born under your porch or in your shed.  These behaviors are seen as a nuisance and the cause of frequent calls to your local animal control. 

 

TNR allows the cats to remain in their current territories without being collected and taken to our already overcrowded shelters.  Because feral cats are not adoptable, they are often euthanized.