Tnr -

Matilda's Garden participates in local TNR effors. TNR stands for trap, neuter, return- which means that we trap feral cats, have them spayed or neutered, get them vaccinated, and return them to their homes outside. We do this when a cat has been born outside and is no longer in the age for socialization. Kittens and friendly adults are brought inside and socialized with a foster until they are ready to be adopted. TNR is the most humane way to cut down on the overwhelming feral population. All TNR colonies are looked after by a caretaker.

If you spot a cat outside with one of its eartips missing, that cat has more than likely been TNR'd and is cared for in a colony. Please do not remove it from the area.

What's the difference between a stray and a feral cat?

A stray is a pet that has either been abandoned to the streets, or has gotten separated from its family. Stray cats are more prone to coming up to humans and wanting to interact.

A feral cat was born outside and is more wild than stray cats. Feral cats tend to be more fearful of humans, ready to run away at first sign of danger. They are very difficult to handle.

I found kittens outside. What do I do?

Leave them alone, but keep an eye on them! If they look healthy, mom is likely nearby. She may be out hunting for food and nourishment for herself. Here's a wonderful guide by the Kitten Lady. Kittens 5 weeks old will still spit and hiss when you go to collect them, but don't let that fool you. They are adaptable at this age and it's the best time to begin to socialize them. Keep in mind! Where there are kittens, there are cats. Reach out to your local TNR group to get mom spayed so that she doesn't have another litter of kittens.

Meet Manny; a local TNR
volunteer. He now has a
permanent marker to show
that he has been neutered,
vaccinated and is cared for.

Additional DFW area TNR resources;

- TNR Texas; A list of North Texas TNR advocates.
- Community Cats; A Dallas-based TNR program.
- TCAP; Texas Coalition of Animal Protection TNR program. A low cost solution for spay and neuter.
- Alley Cat Allies; Fort Worth based TNR program.