Trap-Neuter-Return (#TNR)
TNR Resources
TeamFeral organizes bi-monthly Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) events, where dedicated administrators collaborate with a skilled group of trappers. These trappers invest countless hours in capturing cats for sterilization surgeries. They also volunteer during our TNR events, ensuring the cats recover before releasing them back to their original locations. We deeply admire their commitment and hard work!
Did you know that anyone can trap a cat? No license is required, and it doesn’t matter if the cat isn’t friendly—you don’t need to get close or even touch the cat!
Interested in getting involved with TNR efforts? Explore our resources below to dive into the rewarding world of Trap, Neuter, and Return!
The proper size humane trap for a feline is 30-36” in length
Feral cats are the largest cause of pet overpopulation in Houston. Thousands of feral or street cats are born into homelessness every year.
Left unattended, feral cat colonies can grow out of control. But with your help they can be contained, through humane trap-neuter-return, colonies can be managed and help the continued overgrowing cat population in Houston.
If you have feral cats on your property or are feeding them, you can trap, spay or neuter, and return them to their original location. You might be wondering why they are returned to your area—this is to prevent the vacuum effect.
The vacuum effect is a phenomenon scientifically recognized worldwide, across all types of animal species. Due to the Vacuum Effect, untrapped cats continue to breed, and other cats move into the newly available territory.
Want to TNR a cat?
Utilize our ‘No More Soup’ Program
Our beloved kitten, Soup, was found alone and emaciated, but he quickly became cherished by everyone in our organization. Despite our best efforts, he sadly passed away due to multiple complications. In his memory, the remaining donations are being used to help prevent more kittens like Soup from facing the same fate.
#TeamFeral assists with general public with TNR through our ‘No More Soup Program’; however we have limited spots available based on the funding so it is to be used as a supplementary program or emergency program.
For this with suspected pregnant cats or those who have already utilized HOPE in the past and no longer qualify, you may skip the HOPE voucher application below and send an email request immediately for quick assistance. For all others, please follow instructions below ⬇️
To join our TNR program- you must have proof that you applied for the HOPE Voucher program. The HOPE Voucher program only allots for 6 free vouchers per person, TeamFeral can assist with any additional cats you need sterilized.
After you have applied for the HOPE Voucher program, we ask that you send us an email with a screenshot of your HOPE Voucher request confirmation email (you do NOT have to wait for HOPE to allot you vouchers before sending a #TeamFeral application; you must only send proof of application). We ask that female cats are prioritized over male cats.
TeamFeral does not provide direct assistance with trapping cats. For help with trapping, we recommend reaching out through the Houston TNR Facebook page. Trapping is easy and can be done by anyone! Be sure to check out our TNR trapping tips for helpful guidance.
Sending a TNR Request
Formatting your TNR Request:
Name and location
How many cats needing assistance?
Three days that you would be available to bring the cat in for surgery; written as first, second and third choices. (surgeries are only available Monday-Thursday with drop off 7-8am and pick up roughly 3:30-4:30pm)