The New
York City Feral Cat Initiative recommends the following guidelines for
the practice of TNR, taking considerations of economy, safety, and the
cats' well-being into account:
1)
Training
Before working directly with feral cats, all persons
should receive adequate training
on safe trapping and handling techniques.
2)
Community Relations
Before you begin to plan to trap the cats, take some
time to talk to your neighbors. This is an important step that can
be crucial to paving the way for the cats' future well-being in
the community. Explain the benefits of TNR (less noise, less smell,
no more kittens, and continued rodent control) and be sure to emphasize
that feral cats are not adoptable. An appeal
letter can be an effective way to share information.
3)
Holding/Recovery Space
The cats will need a space that is warm (65–70°F),
dry, and secure (not accessible to other animals or to people not
associated with your project) for a few days before the surgery
and a few days after. The recommended minimum post-surgery recovery
time is 2 days for males and 3 days for females. All cats should
be checked prior to release to make sure they are alert and that
there are no medical conditions requiring further veterinary treatment,
such as severe upper respiratory infection, bleeding, or excessive
lethargy.
4)
FIV/FeLV Testing & Vaccinations
FIV/FeLV testing is
not recommended, except when test results would be useful in diagnosing
the condition of a symptomatic cat, or when a cat is being considered
for adoption. It is strongly recommended that rabies vaccinations
be administered, but that other vaccinations, including FVRCP, not
be administered because of cost, inability to follow-up with necessary
boosters, and stress on the immune system from multiple vaccinations
being administered at the time of neutering.
5)
Eartipping
Returned cats should be eartipped
in accordance with the universal symbol of a neutered feral cat
— ¼ inch off the left ear in a straight line cut.
6)
Long-term Colony Care
Cats and their colonies who are TNRed should be provided
with long-term care, including the provision of adequate food and
shelter and consistent monitoring by a designated caretaker. More
information on Feral Cat Colony Care.
