by Jessica Hughey

Created on: November 17, 2009

It is estimated that there are more than ten million feral cats in the U.S. They live in barns and back allies, in old cars and under porches and decks, foraging for food and water and regularly falling victim to extreme weather conditions, illness and predation. According to the ASPCA, if he manages to survive kitten-hood, the average lifespan of a feral cat is less than two years. Even if the cat is lucky enough to be part of a colony that has a caretaker, the lifespan only increases to five years. Many have tried and failed to find a solution for the feral cat overpopulation problem, with ineffective, outdated methods, including elimination by death and relocation to other areas. Both of these methods are ineffective at best and cruel to the cats, at worst. The most successful, humane method of managing feral cat colonies is Trap, Neuter and Return.

Trap, Neuter and Return, or "TNR" is a program whereby an animal welfare or other organization subsidizes the cost of basic health care and sterilization of feral cats, with the help of community volunteers, who then commit to feeding and caring for the colony, once they are returned. Volunteers humanely trap the cats and transport them to a veterinarian for treatment and services. Sterilization of feral cats is the only way to stem the tide of countless litters of unwanted, homeless kittens. It is very important to have all feral cats spayed and/or neutered, because it is the only 100-percent effective way to prevent unwanted kittens, says Aimee Hartmann, Director of the ASPCA Mobile Clinic.

Indeed, it is well known that female cats can begin to reproduce as early as five months of age. Little more than kittens, themselves, it is very difficult, if not impossible, for them to care for their helpless litters at such a young age. In addition, these females usually become pregnant again shortly after giving birth and the cycle begins again. Repeated pregnancies, with little time in between, can take a huge toll on their health and well being. Without proper nutrition for the mother cat, many of the kittens die or become ill shortly after birth. The ASPCA estimates that over half the kittens born outdoors will die within the first year of life.

Besides sterilization, feral cats in TNR programs also receive basic immunizations and a thorough physical examination by a licensed veterinarian. They are, then, routinely "ear tipped" whereby the tip of one ear is painlessly removed. This helps to distinguish the cats and kittens who have already received services from the ones who have not, once they are returned to the wild. Feral cat caretakers provide food and water, watch out for the cats and provide medical attention when needed. They may also build or purchase shelters for the cats in inclement weather. However, it's best to let the cats remain with their colony, outdoors, rather than attempting to bring them indoors.

For more information on TNR or to find a TNR organization in your area, go to Alley Cat Allies Online Community where you will find both national and local resources for feral cat management.

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