Trap-Neuter-Return Program

Animal Protection

It is tempting to feed feral cats because they are cute and look like domestic cats, but these animals are not domesticated. They have been born in the wild and may carry diseases and, in some cases, rabies. The feeding of feral cats and other types of wildlife also disrupts their natural feeding habits and can result in wildlife being concentrated at artificial feeding areas like your yard.

The Township of Livingston has implemented a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). Under this program, Livingston’s Animal Control humanely traps feral cats, scans them for a microchip, and transports those without a chip to a local veterinarian. There, they are examined, vaccinated, and neutered/spayed before being returned to their respective colonies within 24 hours by Animal Control.

Overpopulation

The TNR program helps to prevent feral cat overpopulation in the community (which protects other native animal populations), treats cats humanely, keeps them from being killed in a shelter, improves public health by vaccinating feral cats for rabies, and can help to save taxpayer dollars.

Leave Them Alone

Diseases:  Feral cats may carry diseases that can be dangerous to humans or other animals, such as rabies. Trying to feed or trap them can result in injury or illness to human or animal. 

Feeding:  Feeding feral cats disrupts their natural feeding habits and can result in wildlife being concentrated at artificial feeding areas. This can lead to large and increasing numbers of cats becoming dependent on human feeding, then breeding, increased populations, and potentially fighting and spread of disease. 

Do not ever bring or allow feral cats inside your home. They are naturally afraid of humans and this will cause them to experience undue anxiety and stress.