Also known as trap-neuter-release or trap-neuter-vaccinate-return (TNVR), TNR is an effective method of community cat colony management that is endorsed by leading animal welfare organizations, including the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). “Community cat programs are the most effective way to save lives, reduce the burden on shelters and improve save rates by about 80 percent,” says Richard Angelo, legislative attorney for Best Friends Animal Society‘s who focuses on the organization’s cat initiatives. It’s important to note that TNR programs vary from rescue to rescue, and community to community. While some programs strictly focus on trapping, neutering, vaccinating and releasing unowned cats, others provide more holistic veterinary care and work to find homes for socialized cats who were once pets (aka strays) and have little chance of surviving outdoors. Shauna Frye, operations director at Philadelphia-based nonprofit The Cat Collaborative, refers to their TNR strategy as “trap, neuter, respond,” as release is not appropriate for every outdoor cat they trap. “Our first goal is always to get the cat fixed to help reduce the overpopulation problem,” says Frye. “But if it’s a friendly cat who could live as a pet, we want to do right by that cat and find them a home. It’s certainly harder work, but it’s work we’re really proud of.” TNR relies largely on volunteers to trap and release the cats. Interested in learning more? From start to finish, here’s how TNR works:,If you’re an animal lover who’s noticed feral cats in your community, you might be wondering, “How can I help them?” After all, feral cats are rarely adoptable, so taking them to an animal shelter (or taking them in yourself) isn’t a solution. But there is one proven, humane way to improve the lives of outdoor cats, while helping to stop the cycle of overpopulation. Trap-neuter-return programs (TNR) capture, sterilize and vaccinate free-roaming cats, then return them to their environment. While widely practiced in the United States and abroad, TNR remains unfamiliar to many people outside the rescue community. In fact, according to Best Friends Animal Society, a nationwide animal rescue nonprofit based in Kanab, Utah, the majority of people (67%) are unfamiliar with the practice. Have we piqued your interest? Read on for everything you need to know about TNR services, including how you can get involved and help your community’s kitties!