Community Resources

What is TNR?

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a humane approach in which community cats are safely trapped, spayed or neutered, typically vaccinated, and returned to the outdoor location where they were living.

• Prevents additional litters.
• Helps stabilize community-cat populations over time.
• Allows healthy unsocialized cats to return to familiar territory.

What Does an Ear Tip Mean?

A cleanly tipped left ear is commonly used to identify a community cat that has already been through a TNR program.

Friendly or Social Cat

If the cat readily approaches people, appears accustomed to living indoors, or seems newly displaced, it may be a lost or abandoned pet.

• Check for identification if it is safe to do so.
• Ask a veterinary clinic or shelter about scanning for a microchip.
• Check local lost-and-found pet listings.
• Contact the appropriate local animal-control agency when needed.

Unsocialized Outdoor Cat

A healthy cat that avoids people and appears established outdoors may be a community cat. Check for an ear tip first. If the cat is not ear-tipped, a TNR organization may be the appropriate resource.

Found Kittens

Very young kittens found outdoors are not always abandoned. Their mother may be nearby getting food or waiting for people to leave.

If the kittens are warm, quiet, clean, and appear well-fed, observe from a safe distance before moving them unless they are in immediate danger.

Sick, Injured, or in Immediate Danger

If a cat has a serious injury, is struggling to breathe, is unresponsive, or is in immediate danger, seek veterinary or animal-control assistance as appropriate. Do not put yourself at risk attempting to handle a frightened or injured cat.