Feral and Community Cats

The ASPCA uses the term "community cats" to encompass any unowned cat. Included under this umbrella are feral cats, those who have been lost or abandoned, and cats who might receive food and intermittent care from one or more residents in a community. Feral cats are cats who are too poorly socialized to be placed as a typical pet.

The ASPCA supports the management of community cat colonies primarily through TNR (Trap/Neuter/Return) and scanning for the presence of a microchip, vaccination, sterilization, ear tipping and, when feasible, microchipping.

Shelter & Rescue Group Resources

Download: The Special S/N Needs of Community Cats
This beautifully illustrated, full-color guide covers everything you need to know about spaying and neutering community cats – from trap handling through exams, ear tipping, surgery, tattooing, recovery and release.

Webinar: Infection Control in Home-Based Programs
Discover a systematic approach to infection control that focuses on keeping animals healthy, especially in home-based operations and foster care.

Webinar: Is that Cat Feral?
Learn techniques for determining if a cat is feral or just shy and fearful.

Forms & Samples: Feral Cat Room Sign
A sample sign you can use to label your feral cat room and explain it to visitors.

TNR Resources

Tips: How to Talk TNR
These four tips can help you win over TNR resisters, whether they are pet lovers or not.

How-to: A Mobile Clinic for Feral Cats
The Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon's mobile hospital provides s/n and veterinary care in seven counties.

Forms & Samples: ASPCA TNR Postcard
A sample postcard you can customize to help educate your community about TNR.

Caretaker Resources

Tips: Caring for Ferals in Winter
Top 10 tips to help get your colonies through the cold months.

Tips:  Responsible Feeding Practices
Top 4 tips to provide food to community cats while keeping the peace with human neighbors.