the problem
Removing and killing feral cats does not reduce feral cat populations. This only opens up the territory (as a feral cat population is territorial) for more cats to move in and start the breeding process all over again. Unspayed, feral female cats spend most of their lives pregnant and hungry, as will their female kittens that survive. Unneutered tomcats roam and fight to win mates (continuing the cycle of feral kittens) often suffering debilitating wounds in the process. Half of all feral kittens die within their first year.

 

the solution

TRAP . NEUTER . RETURN (TNR)

TRAP - Humanely capture feral cats who can't be handled. Take them to the vets who treat their injuries and diseases.

NEUTER - Spay or neuter the cats and confine them safely until they recover. RETURN-MANAGE - Return the cats to the original habitat/trapping site and

provide for feeding and monitoring by volunteer caretakers.

Trap-Neuter-Return, the humane method of feral cat population control, is more effective than trap and kill, and it is more reflective of a caring human community. Feral cat populations are gradually reduced. Nuisance behaviors associated with breeding, such as the fighting, yowling and spraying are virtually eliminated. The spread of disease and malnutrition are greatly reduced. The cats live healthy, safe, and peaceful lives in their territories.

The PetPromise Program
Through our City Kitty Program, we provide, rabies vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery for feral cats who have caretakers who are willing to feed and care for these cats as outdoor feral cats for the rest of their lives. Additionally, PetPromise offers the use of its humane traps as well as guidance and support in the humane trapping of and post surgical care of altered feral cats and kittens. PetPromise volunteers also provide advice and assistance to novice caregivers in their guardianship of feral cats in their neighborhoods.

Cost
While the City Kitty Program is designed to help all feral cat caregivers regardless of ability to assist with the cost of the medical care of the cats....we do ask that you make a donation to PetPromise to help us continue to offer this sort of assistance to other caregivers and cats in need.

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Click here to download the full City Kitty Guide: