In just four months, we’ve helped TNR (trap, neuter, return) almost 200 cats in middle Georgia. Our goal is to continue at a pace of 40-50 per month to humanely reduce the free-roaming cat population.
No other organizations in middle Georgia focus exclusively on helping free-roaming cat communities. There are many very worthwhile organizations to help pets but the needs of cats are often superseded by other animals. It is not unheard of to see money specifically raised for cats diverted to other rescue efforts.
TNR programs are the most widely implemented non-lethal method of managing free-roaming cats. TNR helps to reduce the number of new kittens born to outside and can directly reduce the kill-rates at shelters and animal control facilities. Cats can breed multiple times per year. One study showed that an unaltered female will have, on average, one or two litters per year with about three kittens per litter. Therefore, a sustained community effort is needed to have a real impact.
Sadly, another study showed that 75% of the kittens born to free-roaming cats died or disappeared before 6 months of age. Trauma was found to be the most common cause of death. By altering the moms, this unnecessary suffering can be avoided.
When we have the cats neutered, they are also provided a rabies vaccine.
TNR is only one part of a more comprehensive solution to managing populations of community cats but it is a very important first step. Our hope is to leverage this effort to provide the ability to rehome friendly cats, reunite lost strays with their owners, and help community cat colonies stay healthy and safe.