SPCA of Florida

Cats have been living close to humans outdoors for more than 10, 000 years. They typically live in groups called colonies and have strong social bonds with their colony members. These un-owned cats are called Community Cats and if left uncontrolled to breed can spread disease and become health and safety hazards to people. Community Cats are not socialized to humans and, therefore, are not adoptable in an animal shelter. Traditional animal control efforts to remove and euthanize these cats simply create a vacuum effect: if food, shelter and breeding conditions exist, cats will return and multiply.

Science shows us that managing Community Cats through trap-neuter-vaccinate-return programs reduces uncontrolled cat populations. Cats are humanely trapped, examined by a veterinarian, spayed or neutered, vaccinated and permanently identified by a harmless ear notch. Cats are returned to their colony and managed by a colony caretaker who monitors ongoing health and safety needs of the cats.

Community Cats Protocol*:

• Cats must arrive & depart from Cat Patio (located in left back side of Medical Center) in a humane trap 7 and 8:30 a.m. Pick up time is 5:30 p.m.
• Spay or neuter performed by the Veterinarian
• All pregnant cats will be aborted
• Left ear notched by the veterinarian while anesthetized
• Inoculate against rabies with a 3-year vaccine
• Antibiotic injection
• Post-operative pain medication injection