Feral cats face numerous challenges – lack of shelter, exposure to diseases, and frequent conflicts with wildlife and humans are all threats to these vulnerable felines. Uncontrolled feral cat populations in particular struggle greatly with disease and food resources, and can have a negative impact on local ecology and biodiversity as well. Fortunately, there is a humane way to protect and reduce feral cat populations. It’s called TNVR.

What is TNVR?

TNVR stands for Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Return. This euthanasia-free strategy for population control involves humanely trapping cats, neutering or spaying them, vaccinating them against diseases, and then returning them to their original locations. This approach helps manage and reduce the feral cat population effectively and compassionately, without euthanizing healthy animals.

Results in the Charlottesville Community

Since the inception of our TNVR program in 2011, we have witnessed remarkable changes. Historically, our intake numbers for stray cats were quite high – in 2011, we admitted 1,763 stray cats into our shelter. Fast forward to 2023, and that number has dropped significantly to just 885. This near 50% decrease highlights the effectiveness of the TNVR program in controlling the stray cat population.

TNVR not only helps control the cat population but also significantly reduces the spread of diseases. Each cat we trap, neuter, and vaccinate represents a step toward a healthier community for both the animals and the residents.

About our program: 

Our Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program is available for free to residents of Albemarle County, with a small fee for those outside the jurisdiction. The program includes the spay or neuter surgery, FVRCP+C and Rabies vaccinations (for kittens 3 months and older), and post-operative pain medications. Each treated cat is ear-tipped on the left ear to indicate they have been sterilized. We also offer humane trap rentals and support for those managing cat colonies, including assistance from our community cat manager upon request through an inquiry form on our website. 

 

For more information on how you can TNVR your colony, or get involved with our TNVR efforts, please visit our Community Cats page here. Your support saves lives and creates a more humane world for us all!