NAC Core

What is TNR?

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a humane approach to managing and reducing the population of stray and feral cats. It involves humanely trapping cats, having them spayed or neutered, and then returning them to their original location. All TNR’s are also given a rabies vaccination, greatly reducing the risk of rabies being present in feral cat communities.

Why TNR?

TNR is essential because it addresses the root cause of feral cat overpopulation—uncontrolled breeding. By humanely trapping, neutering, and returning cats to their original location, TNR effectively stabilizes and reduces cat populations over time. It also improves the health and well-being of the cats, reduces nuisance behaviors like fighting and spraying, and lowers the number of kittens born into harsh conditions. TNR is a proven, compassionate solution that benefits both the cats and the community.

Our TNR’s

Our student volunteers dedicate their time to helping trap feral cats in high-volume colonies throughout the town and on personal properties when owners request assistance. We work closely with the Humane Society of Nacogdoches, which funds all our TNR efforts through their TNR assistance program. In the 10 months since establishing Nac CORE, our students have successfully performed over 125 TNRs and assisted in an additional 100.

The Vacuum Effect: the case against euthanasia

The "vacuum effect" occurs when a population of cats is removed from an area, and new cats move in to fill the void, often leading to continued breeding and population growth. TNR prevents the vacuum effect by allowing the neutered cats to remain in their territory, which discourages new, unsterilized cats from entering. This helps stabilize the population, reduce the number of new litters, and minimize the overall number of cats in the area over time.