Hmm…where were we? Aha! We had just finished talking about the materials you need in order to execute TNR properly.
Now we’re gonna discuss how to actually do it. Ok, so first, you gotta set your little trap up. I recommend doing TNR during dusk or dawn, as that’s when the cats are usually most active. But that isn’t necessarily required, so don’t push yourself.
Most humane cat traps have a pressure plate inside and have the doors close when stepped on. This is why you need the bait to lure the cat inside. Place the cat food inside and set up the humane cat trap so it’s door is open, but make sure the pressure plate works, first. There’s usually a manual in case you help setting the door up. I recommend placing the trap in a place where you’ve seen the cat the most.
Next, you just have to wait! Stay close enough to the trap so you can see the feral cat and get to it quickly if it gets trapped, but far away enough so the cat doesn’t get scared away by your presence. If you accidently trap a cat that has already been neutered or spayed, trapped a pet cat, or a completely different animal, release it and keep waiting.
Once you have finally trapped trapped your kitties, approach the cage (be careful, and DON’T open the door!), and put your blanket over the cage. This will help calm the feral cat. If the clinic you planned to go to isn’t open yet, bring the cat to your home until the clinic does open. If the clinic is open, bring the cat to your car and head to the vet. If you’re doing TNR in any cold seasons, make sure your car is warm enough. If you’re doing TNR in the hotter seasons, make sure your car is air conditioned. Don’t leave the cat alone in the car!
Your finally on the last step! Drop the feral cat off, and come back later. (sometimes the clinic will lower the cost of the surgery, or even make it free if you explain to them that you’re doing TNR, or you’re working with a TNR organization.) The vet will most likely call you once the surgery is done. Usually after the surgery, the clinic will keep the cat overnight. However, if they don’t have enough room you may need to keep it at your house overnight.
At last, the day has come to release the feral cat. Go to the exact same spot you trapped the cat, and release it! The feral cat will most likely bolt out of the cage, and you’ll officially have done TNR! Congrats!
I hope this article has encouraged you to do something to help the cats, and if you do, good luck!
The Feline Queen