Why Trap Neuter Return?
Trap Neuter Return (TNR) programs help manage feral cat overpopulation by stopping the breeding cycle. While removal of feral cats from the community may arguably rid an area of cats temporarily, it is not an effective long-term solution because of a scientifically-documented phenomenon known as the vacuum effect (source: alleycat.org). This means that when cats are removed, new cats move in, or the surviving cats left behind breed to capacity. TNR allows the existing colony to remain in a stable state until the colony numbers naturally decline due to attrition.
TNR lowers cat intake into shelters, thereby lowering shelter euthanasia rates. Research shows that spay and neutering also reduces spraying, fighting and yowling as well as reducing the number of new cats into the neighbourhood. Through TNR, homeless and free roaming feral cats are humanely trapped, evaluated and sterilized by veterinarians. They are vaccinated, microchipped and then returned to their original habitat.