Uncontrolled cat populations are a concern in many communities, leading to overcrowded shelters and the suffering of stray cats left to fend for themselves outdoors. NASAP’s Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program offers a compassionate solution. TNR involves humanely trapping stray and feral cats, spaying or neutering them, providing vaccinations, and then returning them to their outdoor homes. By preventing future litters, TNR is a proven, effective way to reduce stray cat populations over time.

Unlike removal or relocation, TNR keeps cats in their familiar environments where they’ve established territory and resources. By stabilizing these cat populations, TNR helps lessen the strain on animal shelters and reduces nuisance behaviors like fighting, yowling, and spraying, improving the lives of both the cats and the people who live nearby.

NASAP’s Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program makes it simple for community members to play a role in reducing stray and feral cat populations. Through NASAP’s “TNR and Compassion Fund,” all medical costs for the TNR process are covered, so there’s no cost to applicants.

Here’s how the program works:

1. Submit an Application: The first step is submitting a TNR application form to NASAP. This form helps NASAP understand the situation and includes essential details about the cats needing assistance, such as estimated age, gender, color, and whether there are any specific health concerns. 

2. Application Review and Next Steps: A NASAP volunteer will review your application once submitted. Within 2–3 days, a team member will contact you to discuss the next steps, ensuring you understand the requirements and timing for the TNR process.

3. Trapping and Transport: If approved, you will be required to trap and transport the cats to a partner veterinary clinic in Sherwood Park. 

4. Medical Care Provided: On the day of surgery, NASAP will cover spaying or neutering, FRCP and rabies vaccines, topical parasite treatments, pain medication, and an ear notch to identify the cats as part of the TNR program. Any additional medical care will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

5. Return to Their Habitat: After the cats recover, they are returned to their familiar outdoor home, where they’ll continue to live without contributing to further population growth.

NASAP’s Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program relies on the support of the community to continue providing this essential service for stray and feral cats. Here’s how you can help ensure the program remains available for cats in need:

1. Make a Donation: All TNR medical expenses are covered by NASAP’s “TNR and Compassion Fund,” made possible through donations and grants. Contributions of $20 or more are eligible for a tax receipt, and every dollar directly supports the medical care of cats within the TNR program. Donations help cover spaying/neutering, vaccinations, pain management, and other vital medical services.

2. Volunteer: NASAP’s volunteers are the heart of the TNR program. One of the primary ways NASAP raises funds is through monthly bingo shifts staffed by volunteers. If you’d like to help by volunteering, even occasionally, please visit our volunteer page and fill out a volunteer application Your time and support make a direct impact on the lives of these animals.

3. Spread the Word: Increasing awareness about NASAP’s TNR program helps connect more community members who may need assistance or want to contribute. Share information about the program and the benefits of TNR with friends, family, and social networks to amplify its reach.

Every form of support—whether it’s financial, volunteering time, or spreading the word—contributes to a more humane and effective approach to managing stray and feral cat populations in our community.