Community TNR Program

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)

Humane. Effective. Community-focused.

Our TNR program helps reduce outdoor cat populations safely and responsibly. We provide traps, training, and hands-on support—from the moment trapping begins to the cat’s safe return home.

Request TNR assistance by completing our brief form. Once submitted, our team will review the details, confirm eligibility, and follow up as soon as possible.

TNR Request Form

What TNR Is

Trap–Neuter–Return is the most effective way to reduce outdoor cat populations.
Feral and community cats are trapped, spayed/neutered, vaccinated,
and then returned to the territory they know.

Why TNR Matters

  • Reduces fighting, spraying, and roaming
  • Stops the cycle of unwanted litters
  • Prevents kittens from being born into dangerous conditions
  • Creates healthier, more stable cat colonies
  • Decreases the number of animals entering shelters
  • Prevents unwanted litters

TNR is one of the most effective ways to reduce suffering and improve the lives of outdoor cats.

How TNR Works

Trap–Neuter–Return is a humane and effective method used
worldwide to stabilize community cat populations.

Step 1: Trap
Cats are trapped safely using humane traps.

Proper placement, scent control, and timing make a big difference, which is why we provide both instructions and optional setup.

Step 2:  Neuter/Spay + Vaccinate
Cats receive:

  • spay/neuter surgery
  • a rabies vaccine
  • (when available) additional basic medical evaluation
  • an ear tip, which is the universal sign a community cat has already been sterilized

Step 3: Return
After recovery, the cat is returned to their outdoor home — keeping the colony stable while preventing new litters.

TNR is not abandonment.

These cats already live outdoors, and returning them is what keeps them safe, settled, and no longer reproducing.

What We Offer

Our TNR program is designed to make the process as simple as possible —
whether you’ve trapped before or you’re brand new.

Loaner Traps
Sturdy, humane traps available Sunday–Wednesday.

Hands-On Setup (Optional)
If you prefer, a volunteer can come to your location and set the trap for you, including placement and baiting.

This ensures the best chance of quickly and safely catching the cat.

Transport to the Veterinarian
Once the cat is trapped, we handle the transport for surgery and recovery (when scheduling allows).

If you’re transporting yourself, we provide guidance and expectations.

Support Throughout the Process
We stay available for questions, troubleshooting, and timing guidance — because TNR works best when you’re not guessing.

Trap Rentals

$50 cash-only trap deposit

  • Encouraged to be a donation to support TNR
  • Fully refundable when the trap is returned in good condition

Trap Setup

Before You Trap
Trapping only runs Sunday–Wednesday.
Bring $50 cash for the trap deposit.
Choose a quiet, consistent feeding area for placement.
Prepare bait (tuna/sardines/wet food).
Have a towel ready for when the cat is trapped.

Day Before
Place the (closed) trap in the area for a few minutes to help the cat get used to it.
Avoid strong scents or heavy foot traffic.

Setting the Trap

  1. Place trap on level ground.
  2. Add a thin towel/newspaper to the floor for comfort.
  3. Put bait at the very back behind the trip plate.
  4. Reduce human scent if possible.
  5. Step back and give the cat space.

Trapping Instructions

Monitoring

  • Check the trap every 15–30 minutes.
  • Never leave a trap out unattended for long periods.

If a Cat Is Caught

  1. Cover with a towel immediately.
  2. Keep pets and children away.
  3. Call us for pickup
  4. Do not open the trap.

Trap Return

After the cat is picked up for surgery, the trap stays with us until after recovery and release.

$50 Cash Deposit
Your deposit is refunded once the trap has been cleaned and inspected after the full TNR process—
OR you can choose to donate it back to support more TNR work.

We’ll contact you when your refund is ready.

TNR FAQ

Can I trap any day?
No. Only Sunday–Wednesday due to vet scheduling.

What if I trap the wrong cat?
Cover it and call us. We will guide you on safe release.

Can I borrow more than one trap?
Yes—as long as traps are available.

What if the cat won’t go into the trap?
Adjust location, change bait, or contact us for help.

Do I have to transport the cat?
No—we handle all transport.

Is the deposit required?
Yes. It encourages trap return and good condition.

Want to Help?

Volunteers and donors keep this program running — especially trap maintenance and transport.

For volunteer opportunities with Iridescence Cares, please visit our Volunteer page.

For those who with to support our TNR efforts financially, donations can be made through our Donate page. Your generosity ensures we can continue reducing overpopulation and improving the lives of community cats.