HSFC is proud to introduce the HSFC Community Cats Program, a community-driven initiative focused on supporting Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) efforts and helping residents care for outdoor cats in a humane and effective way.

What Are Community Cats?

Community cats are unowned, free-roaming cats that often live outdoors. Many are feral due to limited or no human interaction. Before TNR was widely implemented, these cats were frequently picked up by animal control and euthanized in shelters.
Today, TNR offers a more compassionate solution: cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, ear-tipped for identification, and returned to their original outdoor home.

What is TNR?

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the proven, humane method for managing outdoor cat populations. Here’s how it works:
1. Cats are safely and humanely trapped.
2. They’re taken to a veterinarian for spay/neuter surgery and vaccinations.
3. After recovery, they’re returned to their original territory.
4. A local caretaker provides food, water, and shelter.
TNR stops the breeding cycle, helping colony sizes decline over time. It also reduces disruptive behaviors like fighting, yowling, and spraying. As a bonus, the cats help control local rodent populations.

Why TNR Works

For years, the traditional “trap-and-kill” approach tried to control cat populations, but it failed. Removing cats simply creates a vacuum effect, where new cats move in and reproduce.
TNR, by contrast, stabilizes colonies and reduces the number of cats over time—all without sending them to shelters or removing them from their environment.
Relocating community cats is not an option. In Georgia, it’s considered animal abandonment and is illegal. Sadly, fewer than 50% of relocated cats survive due to unfamiliar hazards like predators, cars, or lack of food.

How HSFC Helps

The HSFC Community Cats Program provides vital support to caretakers and concerned citizens, including:
• Lending humane traps and providing trapping instructions
• Educating the public and colony caretakers on best practices
• Offering low-cost or free spay/neuter services through the HSFC Spay & Neuter Clinic and trusted veterinary partners (eligibility required)
Please note: This program is a resource, not a rescue. We empower you with the tools and knowledge to manage the cats in your area responsibly and compassionately.

Need Help with Community Cats?

We’re here for you.
Request TNR Assistance
Download Cat Trapping Instructions

Together, we can create a safer, healthier environment for both cats and people.