We do this.......................

To avoid this......................

Trap-Neuter-Return

 What is a feral cat?  What is trap, neuter and return?  Why do we do this? All this and more will be dealt with in this section.

Feral/wild/abandoned cat

There are no native wildcats in Ireland so why do people use the term "wild cat" or feral cat?  Feral simply means and animal has gone from being domestic to being "wild" or living without the help or interference of humans.  The bottom line is, these cats either are, or are descended from domestic cats who have been abandoned and left to fend for themselves.  It is not the fault of the cats, it is the fault of the humans who have let them down.  We should remember that when dealing with these animals.  They are not vermin, although they are often treated as such and they deserve our help and compassion

Trap, Neuter, Return/relocate

This simply means a trap is left where the cats are known to congregate.  The trap is set up and food is placed in the back of it.  It is then covered to disguise it and once the cat enters the trap and stands on the back plate, the door will snap shut and the cat is trapped.  It is important that traps are not left unattended and that it is covered and removed immediately.  The cat should be kept in a quiet place and brought for veterinary treatment as soon as possible.  This would consist of, a vet check, worm and flea treatment and neuter or spay as appropriate.  Once recovered, the cat is brought back to where it was trapped and released.  Where this is not possible, for instance, if the cats are in danger from humans, they should be relocated to a safe location.

Why do it?

Trap, neuter and return is the best way to control a colony of free living cats in a community.  It means there will be no more kittens being born.  the adult cats will also be healthier since they are not breeding year after year, and also the presence of a controlled colony will prevent new cats coming into the territory.

Want to know more?

If you need further information on TNR, like a demonstration on how to use a trap or need help with unneutered cats in your area, please get in touch