Why Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)?
Trap-Neuter-Return is the only proven, humane method to control outdoor cat populations. The process involves humanely trapping outdoor cats, having them spayed or neutered, microchipped, ear-tipped for easy identification, and vaccinated, then returning them to where they were found. This process prevents them from reproducing and also puts an end to many problematic behaviors like yowling, fighting, and marking.
Ordinance
Section 7-3.1 of the city ordinance allows for the care of feral cats participating in an approved TNR program.
What is a feral cat?
A feral cat is any homeless, wild or untamed cat. However, TNR can be used for
community cats as well. These are cats that are social but do not have one single home. Learn how you can get involved in TNR and help community cats.
Are you the manager of a community cat colony? Fill out this application so that we can keep track of the cats in Dallas. Please email your completed application to: DASServiceRequest@dallascityhall.com.
Why Don't You Trap and Euthanize the Cats?
Trapping and euthanizing cats was used for decades in the United States and has proven ineffective in controlling the cat population. Why?
PLEASE NOTE: Due to COVID-19, DAS is NOT taking in healthy community cats at this time; we are ONLY taking in emergency cases, including kittens. DAS considers sick or injured cats and kittens and confirmed orphaned bottle-baby kittens (not weaned or eating solids) to be emergencies. We are not taking in healthy moms and litters, healthy kittens that are weaned and eating solids or "gruel" or bottle baby kittens that are not confirmed as orphaned. Any kittens with a mother should be monitored until 8 weeks of age rather than brought to the shelter. For more information regarding nursing or orphaned kittens, please click here.
Learn how to get involved in helping community cats.
