The Campus Cat Coalition

The general guidelines of the Campus Cat Coalition's trap/neuter/return/maintain program are described as follows:

Trapping: Humane traps are used. We prefer Tru-Catch Traps because they are so quiet and less likely to traumatize the cats. Trapping is done by only one member of The Coalition who has received pre-rabies vaccinations. Traps are monitored at all times and never left unattended. When trapped, cats are then covered and transported to local veterinarians who participate in the project by offering reduced-rate services.

Testing: Cats are tested for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). Thorough exams are also performed.

Vaccinating: Cats are vaccinated against rabies, panleukopenia, and upper respiratory diseases.

Altering: Cats are surgically spayed or neutered. Dissolvable sutures are used so they do not have to be retrapped for suture removal.

Identification: For identification purposes the cats are "ear tipped" (While under anesthetic, the tip of the left ear is cropped and cauterized. This method is a national standard used for identifying members of managed feral colonies.) Cats are also microchipped.

Return: After complete recovery the cats are returned to their original site on campus and released.

Feeding Rules : The Coalition implements strict feeding rules. Feeding stations are kept clean and hidden from high-traffic and populated areas. Random feeding by anyone who is not a Coalition member is strongly discouraged.

Maintenance: Logs and pictures are kept with detailed information regarding each cat and its location. Colonies are monitored on a regular basis for newly emerged kittens, newcomers, injured or diseased cats, etc.