Feral cats are unsocialized cats. They were either born outside and have never known human companionship, or they were pets who got lost or abandoned, and after an extended time without human contact, have learned to fear humans. Feral cats form colonies around a food source such as a Dumpster. Reproducing to the limits of the food supply, they lead meager lives often shortened by malnutrition, disease and trauma.  Most kittens born never make it through their first year.  Their mating behaviors of spraying, fighting, and howling often cause them to become a public nuisance. Constant reproduction adds to the problem. Getting the cats spayed or neutered virtually eliminates these problems. Once neutered, males will no longer spray to mark their territory. Fighting over females also stops. Noise and smell is no longer a problem. The colony size gradually diminishes with no kittens being born. Cats in a managed colony can live healthy, happy lives without causing problems for neighbors.

Started as a grassroots effort in the U.S., Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is now becoming accepted all across the country. TNR is the only proven humane method that solves the overpopulation problem while allowing the cats to live out healthy lives. The Humane Society rents humane traps for those looking to find a way to transport feral cats for the TNR program that is safe for humans and cats alike. Rental fee is $15 for ten days, with a $100 deposit refundable upon return of the trap. Call (210) 226-7461 for more information on renting a humane trap.