Feral Feline Program
What is a Feral Feline
Feral, stray, community cats, or pet cats are all members of the same species; they are all domestic cats. Yet, by examining their distinct behaviors and interactions with humans, we can discern the unique characteristics that differentiate them. While stray and feral cats may seem alike at first glance, their levels of socialization with humans are distinct and can be easily overlooked.
Feral cats exhibit "flight" or "avoidance" behaviors when humans are present. These cats have a strong social structure within their group or colony, but do not exhibit the same bond with humans as domestic cats do.
Adult feral cats are not socialized to people, which means they cannot be adopted to indoor homes. As a result, they are likely to be euthanized if picked up by animal control or brought to shelters, so it is in the cat’s best interest to continue living outdoors. On the contrary, feral kittens can be successfully integrated into homes with proper early handling and socialization.
Trap-Neuter-Return
Trap-Neuter-Return, or TNR, is a compassionate approach to managing feral cat populations, promoting both feline welfare and community well-being. By sterilizing and vaccinating community cats, TNR reduces the number of unwanted kittens, prevents the spread of disease, and enhances the quality of life for these cats. Cats participating in TNR programs undergo humane trapping, microchip scanning, sterilization (spaying or neutering), vaccination, ear-tipping, and tattooing before being returned to their outdoor homes.
Remember, a feral cat CANNOT be picked up and placed in a carrier. If the cat can be picked up and placed in a carrier it is not feral, it is a stray/community cat.
Stray/community cats will pay regular spay/neuter surgery prices.
How to Trap
Preparing the Trap
Place the trap on a flat surface. Unlatch the rear door and take it off so you can get your hands inside the trap. Fold several pieces of newspaper lengthwise and place them inside the bottom of the trap. Place about one tablespoon of bait food in the rear center of the trap. Next, drizzle some liquid from the bait the entire length of the newspaper inside the trap. Place about 1/4 teaspoon of bait in the middle of the trap and 1/4 teaspoon inside the front of the trap. This strategy is meant to entice the cat into the trap, making its way to the larger amount of food at the rear of the trap. It is important not to put too much bait in the front or middle of the trap, because this may satisfy the cat and it will leave without setting off the trap.
Setting up the Trap
Set up the trap at the trapping site, most likely in the feeding area. Place the trap on the ground and make certain it is stable and will not rock or tip. Cover the entire trap with a sheet or towel, leaving the opening uncovered and ensuring the cover won’t interfere with the door shutting. If using multiple traps, stagger them, so they are facing in different directions. Move quietly and slowly. Try to remain relaxed so your behavior won’t frighten cats away and leave the area quietly. The cats are unlikely to enter the traps if you are standing nearby. Traps should never be left unattended under any circumstances. It is good to check the traps frequently and quietly, from a distance. Never leave a cat in a trap unattended.
Do NOT attempt to transfer a trapped cat to another cage or carrier. Before moving the trapped cat, ensure the trap is covered with a sheet or large towel. It is normal for the cat to thrash around inside the trap; the cat will calm down eventually. Use twist ties to ensure the rear door is secure.
Holding Area
The cat will need to be placed in a holding area. Try to trap the night before or in the morning on the day of your appointment. If you need a place to keep the trapped cat until you drop it off for surgery, make sure the cat is kept in a place that is dry and warm. This can be a basement, garage, shed, mud room, or bathroom. Do NOT leave a trapped cat in extreme cold or heat nor in direct sunlight.
Transporting to the Clinic
Before transporting a trapped cat to the clinic, it is advised to cover your vehicle seats with a sheet, large towel, or plastic trash bag to prevent damage to your upholstery. If your vehicle has a hatchback, you can place the trapped cat in the rear as long as it receives proper ventilation; do NOT transport a trapped cat in the trunk. Ensure the trap is securely situated in the car, so it will not tip over or fall off a seat while you are driving. Keep the trap covered with a sheet or towel.
How to Return
Returning
Returning a cat to its original location is generally the best approach after TNR. Relocating cats is only recommended as a last resort, usually when the cats are in immediate danger. If relocation is necessary, it should be done carefully, ensuring the new location is suitable and the cats are properly introduced to any new animals or environment.
To release a feral cat from a trap, ensure the cat is safely contained and then open the trap door from a distance, allowing the cat to exit on its own. Never put your hand in the trap. If the cat is hesitant, try covering the trap with a towel and then uncovering the exit to encourage it to leave.
Trap Rentals
If you do not own a trap, you will need to make arrangements to rent one from the clinic or from another local group. If you are trapping a large group, you may be able to rent several traps at a time.