Trap-Neuter-Return

The proven approach to managing feral cat populations

Trap, Neuter, Release or TNR, is a method of managing feral cat colonies humanely and effectively. Feral cats are trapped in humane cages using food as bait then they are sterilized by spay or neuter and released where they were originally trapped. The method curbs overpopulation and keeps feral colonies to manageable levels. Feral cats that become apart of TNR have the tip of one ear cut off while under anesthesia to indicate that it has been sterilized and it apart of a managed colony.

The Components of a TNR Program

• Trap Free-roaming cats are humanely trapped using food as bait.
• Neuter The cats are taken to a veterinarian where they are sterilized.  The point of their left ear is “tipped” (flattened slightly) so people will recog­nize that the cats have been sterilized.
• Return The cats are returned to their original colonies where their caregivers agree to continue to provide them with food and wate

Why TNR works

• Ends the breeding cycle and stabilizes the population
• Vaccinates against rabies protecting residents
• It stabilizes the size of a colony, preventing it from reaching outrageous, unmanageable levels.