Is the Cat Owned or Unowned?
When it comes to cats outdoors, there are a few things to consider. First, is the cat owned or unowned? If the cat is a fixed (spayed/neutered) community cat, then they’ll have their left ear tipped. Community cats are often part of managed colonies which are cared for by a team of volunteers or local residents. If the cat has no eartip, then it’s possible that it hasn’t been through a TNR program yet. It’s also entirely possible that a non-eartipped, outdoor cat is either an owned pet or an abandoned pet. If you are able to determine that the pet is owned, then it’s the responsibility of the owner to seek care for their cat. Links for low cost and emergency vets can be found at the bottom of this article.
What is T-N-R?
The city of Indianapolis recognizes (TNR) Trap- Neuter- Return, as the most effective and humane method for controlling the free roaming cat population. Free roaming cats produce 80% of the kittens born each year. It is the greatest source of cat overpopulation. After cats are fixed, vaccinated and recover, they are returned to the location they were trapped . Most annoying behaviors, such as yowling, spraying and fighting decrease. The cats live out their lives and over time the colony diminishes through natural attrition.
Provide the Basics
- Shelter: Provide shelter to keep the cat safe from bad weather or low temperatures. You can find shelter ideas in the links below.
- Feed: Put out food and fresh water everyday. Don’t leave food out at night as this will attract other wildlife. If you require assistance with food or other resources, please see the links below or reach out to us directly.
- Fix: Free or low cost spay/neuter and TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) are available to get cats fixed and returned to their neighborhood outside or find an indoor home if friendly.
- Care: Make sure the cat is healthy. Seek help if they are injured or sick. Assistance is available to provide medical care. You can submit a request through the Request Indy online portal. Links and instructions can be found below.
Scan for a Microchip
If the cat in question is friendly and you are able to safely handle them, then it might be a good idea to scan them for a microchip. Most vets will scan them for free, but you can contact some local services to double check. Please only transport cats in a carrier or trap if you plan on taking them to a vet office.
If the cat ends up being an owned pet, then please follow these suggestions for reuniting the cat with their family.
Relevant Quick Links
Below you’ll find links to the relevant resources mentioned in the article. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us.
Quick Links
Indianapolis Animal Care Services
- 317.327.1429
- www.indy.gov/acs
- Report Animal Cruelty or Abuse
INC Contact Info
- 317.386.6916
- info@indyneighborhoodcats.org
- Request TNR/Medical Assistance