Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)

Trap-Neuter-Return, commonly referred to as “TNR,” is the only method proven to be the most effective (as well as humane) method of controlling the feral and stray cat population.
  1. Feral cats in a colony are trapped.
  2. They’re taken to a clinic to be spayed or neutered.
  3. Then they’re returned to their territory where caretakers provide them with regular food and shelter.
  4. Young kittens who can still be socialized, as well as friendly adults, are placed in foster care and eventually adopted out to forever homes.

TNR immediately halts the growth of a colony by eliminating new litters. The nuisance behavior, mating activity and the odor of un-neutered males spraying to mark their territory including the yowling and fighting (which is often associated with feral cats) is dramatically reduced. Those cats that are returned to their colony also guard its territory, preventing un-neutered cats from moving in and carrying on the cycle of overpopulation and problem behavior. In urban areas, these cats continue to provide natural rodent control. 

Another significant advantage of the TNR method is that, when put into practice by multiple neighboring communities, it lessens the number of kittens and cats being born, that would ultimately end up being taken into local shelters. This results in more successful adoptions, and less instances of euthanasia.

TNR is it is the ONLY WAY to effectively manage a feral cat community! Doing nothing to the once popular trap and kill,  has resulted in the current overpopulation crisis. Trying to “rescue” the cats and find them all homes is utopian and unattainable given their numbers and the futility of trying to socialize most of them. And some cats just don’t want to live in people houses. TNR is a movement that will continue to grow as more and more caring people see its potential and, in time, it will become the predominant method of feral cat management.

TNR Application Process

 

We will not be working on any new TNR applications until the spring of 2025.  If you want to apply, fine, just know we won’t get to you for a few months.  You can try Spay Illinois in Lisle or Tree House, PAWS or Anti Cruelty  in Chicago.  We will also not lend any traps during this time and if you already have any of our traps, please return them.  Thanks and have a happy winter!

 

 

TNR is a simple step-by-step process:

  1. Fill out the TNR Online Application Form.
  2. Download TNR Application and Feline Inventory. Complete and send to:
    P.O. Box 851
    Maywood, IL 60153
  3. Read the CC Ordinance and Caretaker Responsibilities.
  4. Once TNR applications are approved, we will contact caretakers for training.

TNR Fees

  • The fee is $55 per cat, which covers surgery, rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine, Revolution, microchip, and ear tip. 
  • Pet cats are $125, which covers the same except no ear tip. 
  • Combo test for Feline Leukemia and FIV is an additional $25. 

If you don’t have funds, don’t let that stop you. Contact us.

Learn how to become a colony manager

We are still missing some traps!

If you still have any that were loaned to you, please return them to us as soon as possible. Every empty trap means more kittens somewhere.