I am sad to say that I did not learn about TNR until I was in my twenties. If I knew that there were groups and organizations out there helping trap, neuter (spay), and release cats, I might have saved a lot more cats. When we lived in Queens, there was a colony of cats and kittens that I used to feed. At times I would take my little cousin Jenny with me so she could pet the cats through the gate. One day when I went, almost all the cats were gone. There was also a sign that said not the feed the cats. I was devastated, thinking that someone poisoned them or did not want the cats on the property. What else could have happened to them?
Later on I learned that there were people that dedicated their time and efforts to trap these cats and give them homes. When we moved to the woods, I did not expect to see any feral or outdoor cat. Well, the joke was on me because two years later we were trapping a cat and taking it to the local SPCA. Bobby ended up having eight kittens, one which died in birth.
When Mama and Brother started sticking around I started calling local vets to see if they did TNR. I also asked SPCA but neither of them could help. Then once Mama had her litter, I became more desperate. It felt like destiny to meet sweet ladies that were at a Bagel festival promoting TNR efforts and taking cat adoption applications. Thanks to them, I was able to trap and fix Mama, Brother, their four kittens, Baby, Batman, and unexpected One-Eyed Willie. They worked with TARA van and were able to help me trap the cats and fix them all for a discounted price. Since our town worked with TARA I was able to fix all the cats for $35 each!
How can you help with TNR
One way to help make sure that your cat population is in control is by volunteering your time to help trap them. A lot of organizations can’t be in multiple places at once and need people to set up traps and bring cats to their appointments. You might even get to do the exciting thing like releasing the cats back to their locations.
You do not need to give up your free time looking for cats to trap in order to help. There are other ways you can help make sure that your neighborhood is aware of trapping efforts and assistance. This can be done by sharing local Trap and Release efforts and organizations. You can post and share their number or email, and spread the word so others can get the help they need. Another way you can assist is by telling them about a colony or person that needs help.
If you are shy or don’t have social media, you can simply donating food, blankets, and money. It usually costs money to fix the cats and that’s why a lot of people don’t do it. When I called the vets, they wanted over $300 just for one cat! Do your research and call your town to see if they have an agreement or offer low cost spay and neuter vouchers. This is what my towns does, but it’s only two vouchers per household. Be sure to let your neighbors know about these low-cost options and spread the word. You’ll be amazed at what a difference that can make!
