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TNR

In partnership with municipalities and the colonies’ caretakers, we have implemented a nationwide mass sterilization program.

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What is TNR?

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is an humane and effective method of controlling cat colonies and reducing the stray feline population. The process involves trapping all the cats from a colony, sterilizing them, ear-tipping them for identification purposes, deworming and, finally, returning the animals to their territory of origin, where they are fed and protected by their caretaker. Whenever possible, docile adults and younger animals still of socializing age are removed from colonies and sent for adoption.


Useful information about TNR

TNR advantages

In the community

  • Fewer stray cats across community;
  • Decrease in the number of animals put down;
  • Fewer complaints to the municipal services;
  • Greater cooperation among caretakers;
  • Mobilization of volunteers;
  • Cost reduction;
  • Better public relations for municipal services.

In the colony

  • There will be no more reproduction, and the cat population will decrease over time,
  • Drastic noise reduction;
  • The smell becomes much less intense;
  • Rodent control is maintained;
  • A healthier and less visible colony;
  • No more pity/sadness factor;
  • The presence of a caretaker;
  • Avoid the creation of another colony, not sterilized.
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Failed alternatives to TNR

One of the main reasons for advocating TNR is that nothing else results. Whether we want to reduce the feline population or the people’s discomfort, no other technique has so far demonstrated such long-term success. This becomes clearer when we examine the alternatives practiced.


Capturing and killing

Capturing stray cats, transporting them to a kennel/cattery and slaughtering them can, in the short term, reduce the feline population in a given location. However, this reduction is only temporary, and the population returns in strength shortly thereafter. There are several reasons for this to happen: the vacuum effect, excessive reproduction, abandonment or lack of resources of municipal services.

Stop Feeding

At a first glance, this method is quite appealing due to its simplicity – do not feed the cats and they will leave. Stray cats are extremely territorial and will not go far to search for food. Instead of moving away, cats tend to move closer, risking getting closer to the people homes as their despair increases. In addition, a cat can spend weeks without eating and still reproduce.

Shelter or Relocation

Relocating animals to a safe place or sanctuary is a solution applauded by many when they encounter a colony at risk. However, there are very few animal sanctuaries, and they are constantly short of space and overcrowded. If you are going to move the colony, you will have to find a suitable place as well as someone willing to commit to feeding them forever.

Do nothing

If nothing is done, a colony will be as large as is naturally possible, which will be the result of food and shelter availability. When the capacity of these resources is exceeded, population control comes in the form of disease and hunger.