Trap-Neuter-Return-Manage, or "TNRM,” is the most humane and effective method known for managing feral and stray cats.  The cats, who usually live together in a group called a colony, are trapped by dedicated animal rescuers, often at their own expense, and brought to a veterinary clinic. The cats are then given a general exam, spayed or neutered, vaccinated for rabies and ear tipped to identify them as altered.   After they've recovered from their surgeries, the cats are returned back to their original territory as long as the location is deemed safe.  Once the colony has been been completely spayed/neutered, the caretaker who provides regular food and shelter should continue to monitor for additional cats and continue to TNR the new cats.   When foster or permanent homes are available, young kittens and friendly adults are removed and placed for adoption.

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TNR is not only good for the cats, but it is good for the neighborhood too!  Spaying and neutering also greatly reduce nuisance behavior. Once the cats have been altered,  fighting, yowling and other noise associated with mating is eliminated. The foul odor caused by unaltered males spraying to mark territory disappears. The cats themselves are healthier and less likely to spread feline diseases. Meanwhile, rodent control is maintained by the cats' continued presence.

Because of it’s winning track record, TNRM has begun to  attract the attention of the communities, there is an influx in volunteers, funding and other resources. This is why more and more municipalities and shelters are supporting TNRM and developing their own programs. Many communities are seeing dramatic drops in cat intake and euthanasia at their local shelters as a result of TNRM. 

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