How it works
The TNR Cycle, Step by Step
TNR is a humane, proven way to help community cats live healthier lives and gently reduce colony sizes over time.
1
Trap
Cats are gently caught in safe, humane box traps, usually with tasty food as bait.
2
Neuter
A veterinarian spays or neuters each cat, so no new litters are born.
3
Vaccinate
While under care, cats get a rabies vaccine to protect them and the neighborhood.
4
Ear-tip
A small, painless snip on the left ear tip shows from a distance that the cat is fixed.
5
Return
Once recovered, cats go back home to their familiar outdoor territory and caretakers.
Common Questions
What is a community cat?
A community cat is an unowned cat who lives outdoors in a neighborhood. Some are friendly strays, and many are feral and not comfortable living indoors with people. Outdoors is their home.
Why not just remove the cats?
When cats are removed, new unsterilized cats often move in and the cycle starts again. TNR keeps a stable, healthy group in place that slowly gets smaller over time.
How does spaying and neutering help?
Sterilized cats can't have kittens, so colonies stop growing. Common nuisance behaviors like yowling, fighting, and spraying usually drop, and the cats tend to be healthier.
What does the tipped ear mean?
A small, straight cut on the tip of one ear is done while the cat is under anesthesia. It's a painless, universal sign that the cat has already been spayed or neutered and vaccinated.
I feed cats in my yard. Can I still help?
Yes, and thank you. Caretakers are a big part of TNR. Reach out through our Get Help page and we'll talk through next steps together.
A SMALL SIGN, A BIG MEANING
Why the Ear-tip?
While a cat is under anesthesia for spay or neuter surgery, the vet removes a tiny, straight tip from the left ear. It heals quickly and doesn't hurt the cat. That little flat edge tells neighbors, rescuers, and animal control from a distance: this cat is already fixed and vaccinated. It keeps cats from being trapped twice and helps everyone recognize a cared-for community cat.