theshadowytiger: TNR stands for trap/neuter/release. There are TNR programs worldwide to manage fera
theshadowytiger: TNR stands for trap/neuter/release. There are TNR programs worldwide to manage feral cat colonies. Since they’re too wild to be tamed these cats are caught, given shots, and neutered/spayed before being released. Although it is a bit of a scary experience the benefits are huge. Not only to control cat populations, but lessening likelihood of illness and risk-taking behavior. Receiving shots gives them added protection to survive. It also allows a vet the chance to see to them, giving them medical attention for the first and likely only time in their life. You can tell a cat has been TNRed if it has been ear tipped. This means a sliver of an ear tip has been removed by a vet. Now if any other human sees LeClerc they will know he has already been helped. TNR groups automatically include this for ferals. TNRing cats is a slow, muddled road with a rewarding end. Every call along the way always led to another organization to refer to. Finding the information was a huge hassle (one supposedly in-the-know person I spoke to even said NY doesn’t do it!). However we did manage to get vouchers for some of the cats in the end and that’s what matters. This process is for cats beyond the point of being tamed. This is why feral kittens should be caught as soon as possible - they are not beyond pethood. Never wait and try to gain the trust of a kitten to encourage them to come in on their own, trap them or call a shelter to have a professional trap them. Kittens experience a critical period of development and it’s so important not to miss handling them in this tiny window. The humans managed not to miss it for me, but my siblings are adults now. For adults TNR is a great option to help cats get much needed medical attention. Untamed adults, who if rescued would spend their whole lives cowering under a couch in fear, experience a better quality of life continuing to live outside. LeClerc, pictured here, is a TNR kitty, and my brother. He is back outside now. Reposting important info: say it louder for the people in the back! -- source link