The number of feral and abandoned cats in the United States is estimated to be between 30 and 80 million. Trap-neuter-return (TNR), also known as trap-neuter-release, spay-neuter-return (SNR), and trap-neuter-return-monitor (TNRM), is a humane method of controlling stray and feral cat populations in communities. Free-roaming cats are humanely trapped, spayed, or neutered at a veterinary facility and then returned to the place where they were living.

TNR is an alternative to other programs that aim to control free-roaming cat populations, such as trap-and-kill programs and relocation, which are generally considered inhumane and ineffective. Return (TNR) is the only humane and effective approach to community cats or unowned cats who live outdoors.

Scientific studies show that TNR effectively addresses the community cat population by ending the breeding cycle, meaning no new kittens are born in a community cat colony. As sound public policy, TNR addresses community concerns, reduces shelter intake and killing, and reduces calls to animal services, all saving cats’ lives and taxpayer dollars.

When cats are free from the burdens of mating and reproducing, their relationships improve with those who live near them (think: no more kittens outdoors or yowling, roaming, fighting, or spraying). Additionally, many reproduction-related diseases, like certain cancers, are prevented.


Please get in touch with the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) regarding their Feral Fix Program.
940-566-5551