Trap-Neuter-Release Program Controls Feline Population

In an effort to reduce the over-population of feral and community cats within the city, the Moreno Valley Animal Shelter has launched a Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) Pilot Program where the Moreno Valley Animal Shelter will spay or neuter and vaccinate healthy feral and community cats brought in to the shelter and return them to the area where they were found or trapped. Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) Programs are one of the most effective methods for controlling the population growth of feral and community cats. When these felines are spayed/neutered and vaccinated, it improves their health by reducing wandering, mating and fighting and the incidence of disease. Feral and community cats once spayed or neutered, will be identifiable by an ear notch indicating that the cat can no longer reproduce offspring, thereby reducing the overall population of cats. This method of animal population control will reduce the incidence of these healthy animals being euthanized at the Animal Shelter, simply because they were born without having any social interaction with people. Spaying and neutering of these cats is currently funded through donations. Residents and interested parties that wish to donate to this worthwhile cause may contact the Moreno Valley Animal Shelter. Suggested methods residents can use to help keep cats out of their yards and gardens: • Use motion-activated sprinklers • Use an ultrasonic animal repellent available at most lawn and garden stores • Plant the herb, "rue" to repel cats • Scatter orange and lemon peels; cats dislike citrus smell • Place 10 inch plant stakes in flowerbeds eight inches apart to discourage scratching and digging • Spray cat repellent along areas where cats have been observed; cat repellent is available in most pet supply stores