Resources
Feral Cat / Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Resources
What is TNR?
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the practice of trapping feral cats (cats that are acclimated to the outdoors, unused to human contact, and not suited to be pets), taking them to a veterinarian or clinic for spaying/neutering, and returning them to their original location. Ideally, this should be a permanent "cat colony" that is monitored and managed by humans experienced in caring for feral cats.
TNR projects large and small require planning and preparation. In addition to securing humane traps (traps designed not to harm the animal) and other supplies, you will need to arrange veterinary care for the trapped cats beforehand, as well as a location for cats to recuperate after their surgery. You also must ensure that the location where you will be returning the cats is safe, and that you are complying with local laws and regulations. Use the FixFinder database to locate TNR organizations and TNR-friendly, low-cost spay/neuter services in your area.
The following resources will aid you in planning a TNR project -- whether you are planning to trap a single cat or an entire feral cat colony.
General Resources
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Visit our Financial Assistance page for low-cost vet care resources
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TNR Action Kit - Best Friends Animal Society (resources for working with local governments and influencing public policy)
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National Animal Care and Control Association (online TNR training classes)
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Animal Protection League of New Jersey (list of low-cost spay/neuter services for TNR projects in NJ)
Organizations that Can Assist with TNR Projects*
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FixFinder Database (search for TNR and low-cost spay/neuter resources in your area)
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Village Trappers (feral/TNR services and support in South Jersey)
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Forgotten Cats (feral trapping services and support in the SE Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware areas)
Specific How-To Guides
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How to Build Feral Cat Shelters Using Common, Inexpensive Materials
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How to Build an Easy, Inexpensive DIY Feral Cat Feeding Station
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How to Release a Skunk (or other wild animal) from a Humane Trap
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How to manage female ferals who may be pregnant or nursing during a TNR project.
TNR: A Step-by-Step Guide
Although this video shows a large TNR project, the basic principles can be applied anywhere.
How to Set a Feral Cat Trap (Havahart "snap" style)
How to Set and Use a Feral Cat Trap (Tru Catch style)
How to Use a Drop Trap
NOTE: Because they can be dangerous to cats, drop traps should only be used by or under the guidance of experienced trappers.
Caring for a Feral Cat Colony After TNR
How to build shelters, arrange feedings, etc.
How to Safely Transfer a Cat from a Trap to a Carrier
Updated July 29, 2023
* TNR/trapping assistance is subject to the organizations' availability, resources and policies.
** Available for individuals only; not available to shelters or rescue groups.
DISCLAIMER: These resources are provided for information purposes only. Purrfect Angels Cat Rescue makes no warranty as to the performance or availability of these resources, and inclusion of a resource here does not necessarily imply endorsement. Purrfect Angels Cat Rescue has no interest, financial or otherwise, in any of these listed resources.