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Trap Neuter Return

 

TNR = Trap, Neuter, Return

TNR is a comprehensive plan where entire feral colonies are humanely trapped, evaluated, vaccinated
and spayed or neutered. Feral cats are returned to their familiar habitats to live out their lives under the
watchful care of devoted caretakers. Kittens and cats deemed tame enough are placed into foster care
for further socializing and are later put up for adoption.

TNR works. Cat populations are gradually reduced. Nuisance behaviors associated with breeding, such as
yowling, fighting, roaming or spraying are virtually eliminated. Disease and malnutrition are greatly reduced.
Consequently, the cats live healthy, safe and peaceful lives within their territories.

Ear-Tipping

When a cat has the top one-quarter portion of the ear missing, it means he/she has been sterilized and
vaccinated as part of a Trap-Neuter-Return program. A vital part of TNR, ear-tipping, ensures that altered
cats can be visually identified from a distance so they won’t be mistakenly re-trapped. The simple procedure
is performed while the cat is under anesthesia during surgery. It’s important that this permanent marker
be evident, as no other method for identification is as safe, effective, or easy to recognize.

Benefits of TNR

• Feral cat populations are stabilized at managed levels, preventing overpopulation.

• Feral cats benefit their communities by keeping rodent populations in check.

• Annoying mating behaviors are eliminated.

• TNR is more cost-effective than repeated attempts at eradication, which is not only inhumane
but essentially ineffective.

• TNR has proven to be the most humane and effective way to control feral cat populations and
to improve their quality of life. This method is being used with success all over the world.

Do it for the cats

• They will be healthier.

• They will stop fighting, yowling and spraying.

• They will stop having sickly unwanted kittens.

• Their numbers will decrease.

Do it for your neighbors

• They will find less cat poop in their yards.

• They will see fewer cats each year.

• The healthy cats that remain will be eco-friendly alternatives to rodent control.