What is TNR?
TRAP-NEUTER-RETURN
TNR is the most effective way to reduce feral cat populations. Once the approach to controlling feral cat numbers was to trap and euthanize them. However, nature abhors a vacuum , and more abandoned or stray cats will move into the vacated territory. With a population that is spayed and neutered, the numbers of cats will stay relatively stable. If everyone is fixed, there are no litters of kittens, and no roving cats coming in to breed, and staying for the food. The cats are humanely trapped in live traps, and brought to a veterinarian to be spayed/neutered, and to receive rabies and distemper vaccines. This keeps the colony healthy, and safe. The cats' left ears are notched so that those that have been fixed and vaccinated can be easily identified. One can imagine the difficulties of trying to tell 30 black cats apart! Once the cats have recovered from surgery, they are returned to their colony, and the food, water and shelter that it provides. With breeding stopped, the population will gradually reduce. Without having to provide for litters of kittens, food goes further, and makes for healthier adult cats. Territorial spraying, fighting and yowling virtually disappears. TNR is an act of compassion for un-homed cats.
