What is Trap, Neuter, and Release (TNR)?

What makes a cat feral?
Feral cats are born outdoors and have never been handled by humans. Due to their lack of socialization and fear of people, they are considered wild and cannot be adopted. As a result, they are routinely euthanized in many animal shelters.

 

How Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) Works

TNR is the process of humanely trapping feral cats, sterilizing, and vaccinating them. They are also “ear-tipped,” to signify that they have been part of a TNR project, then returned to their outdoor environment where they are happiest.

 

Feral cats often have caregivers who love them, feed them on a regular schedule, and provide them with outdoor shelter.


Why TNR Is Worthwhile
TNR is known to:

• Stablize the population of feral cats

• Reduce shelter euthanasia rates

• Improve the overall health of feral cat colonies

• End undesirable behaviors displayed by unaltered cats
   

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How to Plan a Successful TNR Project

The TNR process requires careful planning. Alley Cat Allies provides a helpful guide that details what's involved.  We are experienced in planning and administering TNR projects and are here to help.