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Feral cats and trap-neuter-release (TNR) programs are a hotly debated topic, with many people on both sides feeling very passionately. Recently, a report released by the University of Nebraska, Feral Cats and Their Management, has raised even more debate about the subject of feral cats and how to handle them.
Is Trap-Neuter-Release Successful in Managing Feral Cats?
Trap-neuter-release programs are not without their critics. One of the primary criticisms with these programs is that these feral cat colonies have a tendency to out-compete the native wildlife in their area. These cats are predators that hunt and kill songbirds and other small mammals. While this may be useful in keeping populations of mice and rats under control, the effects on the populations of other species are problematic.
That being said, trap-neuter-release programs have been successful in managing populations of feral cats in situations where addition of new cats to the colony can be controlled.
The Life of a Feral Cat in a TNR Colony
The average life-span of a feral cat is 3-5 years. That’s a pretty short life-span and feral cats are subject to predation by larger animals (coyotes, fox, etc.) in addition to being subject to various other forms of trauma and illness.
I’m soft-hearted enough that the thought of these cats living this kind of life bothers me more than a little bit. However, many of these cats are not easily tamed and do not adjust easily to indoor life, if indeed the transition is possible at all. The alternative, unfortunately, is putting these cats to death and I like the thought of that even less.
Are Lethal Methods Necessary or Appropriate for Feral Cats?
The report issued by the University of Nebraska talks at length about both lethal and non-lethal methods of dealing with feral cats. The report comes to the conclusion that both methods are necessary to deal with the problem.
Shooting Is Recommended as an Option
Among the many methods covered in the report is shooting. The report urges people to aim for the head or the chest of the cat in order to avoid unnecessary suffering for the cat. I strongly disagree with this advice.
Firstly, there is the issue of safety. It seems less than wise to encourage a person who is likely frustrated and angry about the feral cats in their area to declare open season on the cats. In fact, to me, it seems a recipe for disaster. Stray bullets can injure innocent animals or even people.
The second issue of concern is cruelty. Even for an accomplished marksman, shooting a cat that is moving rapidly is difficult. Assuming that shooting the cat in the head or chest truly is humane (and I think that could be debatable as well), how likely is it that the average person would actually be able to make that kind of shot? More likely, the shot will miss entirely or worse mortally injure the cat, allowing escape and a painful death.
The report also suggests that shooting a trapped cat may be appropriate as well. I strongly disagree with this suggestion also. If euthanasia is truly necessary, there are much safer, more humane methods available once the cat is trapped.
Trapping Feral Cats
While the report talks about humane traps, it also talks about using leg traps. In my opinion, trapping a cat in this fashion is inhumane and cruel. The report states that these traps should be checked regularly to make sure that a cat is not trapped for a significant length of time. But realistically, are the people willing to use these types of traps to begin with likely to worry about how long the cat remains trapped or how much the cat suffers in the meantime? I seriously doubt it. I see no reason why these traps should need to be used. I also see no advantage to using a leg trap in place of a more humane trap, such as a Havahart or similar trap.
I admit that feral cats can and do pose a problem and that trap-neuter-release programs, while helpful, may not be practical in all situations. However, I think that there needs to some compassion and some common sense in how these cats are handled as well. Some of the suggestions offered in this report are, in my opinion, barbaric and dangerous.
Medical Disclaimer: All advice offered is general, and the Pet Health Care Gazette is not responsible for any problems arising from the use or misuse of the information. Since each animal and each situation is unique, we recommend that you contact your own veterinarian for help with any health or behavior problems in your pet.
Photo Credit: Gail S/Flickr.com
About Lorie Huston, DVM
Lorie Huston is a veterinarian, pet health and pet care expert, professional writer, blogger, social media and blogging consultant, and SEO strategist.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I am totally appalled at the recommendations in this article. It sounds like something from the 1940′s. There are so many other options with trap and release. I am also horrified at the recommendation of using a leg trap. The only way that I could see that a leg trap would work with a cat, would it would need teeth, which would cause major injury to the cat as he tried to escape. Granted there may be situations where the elimination of a cat colony is necessary, but to trap with leg traps or shoot is absolutely inhumane.
Thank you for your comments, KJ. I agree with you completely. I was horrified when I read this article too. It’s especially troubling that this report was released by an academic institution. Speaking as a University of Nebraska alumnus, I’m embarrassed that my alma mater would even consider these kinds of reccomendations!
Thank you for your comments, KJ. I agree with you completely. I was horrified when I read this article too. It’s especially troubling that this report was released by an academic institution. Speaking as a University of Nebraska alumnus, I’m embarrassed that my alma mater would even consider these kinds of recomendations!
I agree with all of you. Why do people always have to cause harm to animals? People are so cruel.