Trap. Neuter. Return.

What is TNR?

Trap, neuter, return (TNR) is a humane and effective method for managing feral and stray cat populations. In this process, cats are safely trapped, taken to a veterinary clinic to be spayed or neutered and vaccinated, and then returned to their original outdoor homes. TNR helps stabilize cat colonies by preventing further breeding, while also improving the health and well-being of the cats and reducing nuisance behaviors associated with mating.

FAQs

Please note that there is a 3-6 month waiting list for free TNR services. If you need assistance sooner, we will assist with low-cost spay/neuter appointments, which averages $80 per cat. Please reach out to meowtopiacatrescue@gmail.com for more information.

We will prioritize TNR requests if there are pregnant cats, or if you are willing to trap and transport cats.

  • We're here to help! Please read through all FAQs before contacting us, and understand that we have limited capacity and can only accept a certain number of TNR projects. To help our efforts, please consider volunteering or donating. To contact us about help with TNR, please fill out our TNR Intake Form.

  • It's the opposite! TNR is the most humane solution for cat overpopulation, both for the health of communities and the health of cats. Cats who consistently reproduce are more prone to health issues, chronically underweight, and stressed due to the constant drive to breed and raise their kittens.

  • Feral cats, defined as cats who have no or very little human interaction/contact, may never be suitable for living in homes as pets. Forcing them into an indoor environment is extremely stressful and not in the best interest of the health of the cat. In addition, there are more houseless cats than homes willing to accept them.

  • Meowtopia partners with other rescues to get friendly strays off the streets and eventually adopted by their forever family. Please fill out our Found Cat/Kittens Form and someone from Meowtopia will contact you. Please understand that there are far more friendly houseless cats than there are foster homes. Meowtopia and our partners have limited capacity, but we will do our best to refer you to resources.

  • Wonderful! Meowtopia, and all of Orange County, needs more trappers who are willing to help. Please fill out our Volunteer Application.