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Homeless Cat Facts

What is TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return)?

TNR reduces homeless cat populations by surgically sterilizing cats so they cannot reproduce. TNR, when accompanied by ongoing homeless cat management, is the most effective, humane method of reducing homeless cat populations.

Cats are trapped, taken to shelters or veterinary clinics where they are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and have their ears tipped/notched so they can be identified as part of a managed colony. Only healthy cats are placed back in their colony so there is not a health risk to other cats and animals.

Sterilization helps make cats better community citizens; colonies gradually diminish in size.  By reducing or eliminating yowling associated with mating, fighting and wandering, TNR makes colonies more stable, decreases the number of newcomers and improves the health of the cats.

Furthermore, TNR saves money. It costs cities up to $250 to pick up, house and euthanize one homeless cat. For the same price, they can spay/neuter five cats.

Homeless Cat Facts

• There are an estimated 125,000 homeless cats in Santa Clara County.
• Cats represent two-thirds of all animals in shelters and are euthanized at a far greater rate than dogs or rabbits.
• Santa Clara County shelters euthanized approximately 14,000 cats in 2005 at a cost of approximately $2.4 million.
• HSSV supports TNR. 

Please call 408-262-2133 x 108 for currently offered programs through HSSV.

Silicon Valley low-cost Programs
Humane Trap Rental Resources
HSSV Homeless/Feral Cat Trapping instructions