While this is a wonderful gesture, it is not necessary for community cats to thrive. These caregivers provide food supplement and/or temporary shelters during the winter. Sometimes there are caregivers for one or more cats in a community. Should I provide food or shelter for community cats? We can also provide resources upon request.

A quick internet search can provide information on creating a den. If you are worried about community cats staying warm during the winter, we encourage you to put out a winter den. Additionally, if a cat is left in a trap it has less ability to stay warm.Ĭats are smart and know where the best places are to hide and stay warm in the winter. Because this is the coldest time of year cats don't typically breed, so there is no urgency to get them fixed. If they are brought in for any length of time they could start to shed that undercoat putting them in jeopardy. This protects them from the cold and wetness. During the winter, outdoor cats develop a thick undercoat - just like all wild animals. Outdoor community cats are different from the sweet, spoiled cats that curl up inside on the couch. Why is the program only available by appointment during the winter months? However, from November 20 through January 31 the program is available by appointment only. The cats are then returned to where they were picked up or trapped. Ideally, they should be in the Shelter no longer than 48 hours – enough time to do a health assessment, vaccinate them, and get them fixed. It is not only the most humane method of preventing cats from entering the shelter system it’s the most effective.Ĭommunity Cats are trapped and brought to the shelter.

Trap/neuter/return (TNR) programs involve trapping, neutering/vaccinating, and returning community cats to their original outdoor locations.

What is the Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) Program?

The best way to do this is through the Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) Program. The Community Cat program aims to achieve these goals while helping the maintain a No-Kill status among the shelter population. The purpose of the community cat program for West Valley City/Taylorsville Animal Services is to reduce the breeding and over population of community cats while addressing complaints and concerns from our residents.

Download trapping feral cats for free