How many times have you heard this story or maybe even experienced it? The cat population over here has exploded out of control! It usually starts with a couple cats; they have three litters of six and by year end a total of 38 cats are living in a group. They might be in your neighborhood, in your barn or behind your business. The mother cats are probably tame, but all the offspring are feral (wild) due to no human interaction.
It’s amazing how fast cats can multiply. What’s the solution and whose responsibility are they anyway?
TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) is the most efficient and humane answer to this dilemma.
The cats are trapped and transported to the vet for sterilization, FeLV testing, and vaccines, including rabies. When they are recovered, they are returned to their original location. We implement this program with the cooperation of the “sponsor”, owner, caretaker (whatever the case may be). That person agrees to feed, and provide water and shelter for the returned cats.
The best implementation of the program is to catch the problem early; that is before you have a population of 7 or more. A CAWS representative can assess the problem and determine the best course of action. CAWS can provide financial assistance to fund the project but we do ask for some help from the client. We can work with the client to do the trapping, transporting and return. Each situation is assessed on an individual basis.
Cats that are sterilized and returned to their original location are able to live healthy lives. They are no longer forced to endure the stresses associated with mating, birthing and food finding. Neighborhood nuisances such as spraying, fighting, yowling and offensive behavior are eliminated. Everyone Wins!!!
The Humane Society of the United States has been on the front lines of this procedure for many years and has documented its success. In 2009 CAWS TNR’d 164 cats in the Hotchkiss, Paonia, Cedaredge, Delta area. That amounts to HUNDREDS of unwanted cats that will never be born and 164 cats who will have a comfortable life.
Let’s work together to help these unfortunate cats, we can make a difference.
For more information, please contact Pat Gwinn at (970) 527-3424 or email gwinette@paonia.com