Program Overview
The Community Cat Care and Management Program is a holistic program that provides a targeted and systematic trap, neuter, and release element, as well as continuing care of the community cats, with the support of communities experiencing feral cat overpopulation. CATF also provides spay and neuter services through this program to owners who meet a low-income threshold.
With the support of the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA), we implemented a Community Cat Care and Management pilot program in 2019. The first cat clinic took place in the hamlet of Carseland, Alberta, supported by the Carseland Public Benefit Club. It was very successful, with 84 feral cats trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, treated for parasites, provided with permanent identification, and released under the care of local caregivers. An additional 25 cats were placed with rescue groups.
Components of the Program
The Cat Care and Management Program requires strong support from the communities we serve. We work closely with impacted communities and deploy a variety of tools to ensure long-term success.
Community Support
We engage local stakeholders including veterinarians, elected officials, Bylaw Officers, local cat caregivers, rescue groups, and community members. We request funding for the program from the municipality but may subsidize the program if needed.
Establishing Leadership
A CATF representative acts as the point of contact for the program to ensure a consistent message and to facilitate humane and safe care of community cats.
Communication and Community Outreach
We share information about the program and upcoming events through local and social media. We share information about the importance of spaying/neutering, registering, and vaccinating owned cats.
Locating and Counting Cats
Identifying colonies and problematic areas; estimating the number of cats and evaluating the health of community cats.
Accessible Spay and Neuter Programs
We provide high-volume spay and neuter clinics, either within the community or at a partner veterinary clinic. We have protocols on ear tipping, parasite control, tattooing, labeling traps, quarantining, sedation, surgery, recovery, housing and low stress handling.
Ongoing Care
With support and mentorship from CATF, designated community caregivers act as a liaison between businesses and community members to address any concerns. Local caregivers are expected to provide food, water, and shelter; keep colonies clean; monitor for new intact cats; and monitor for illness or injuries. A budget is set up for veterinary care after the clinic is complete.
Looking for Assistance?
We cannot accommodate all requests for assistance at this time, but we are working to expand our cat program. Due to the high volume of requests, please be patient as we do our best to follow up with you.