wildy

Friends of Felines - Cape Hatteras Island

Organized efforts of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) began in Denmark and England over 35 years ago.  TNR was formerly introduced to the United States in 1980, and in 1990 Alley Cat Allies created a nationwide network.  Since then there has been a progressive movement for the protection of feral cats and their offspring.  In communities where TNR is practiced, feral cat numbers have dropped.

The definition of 'feral' is to exist in a natural state; having reverted to the wild state as from domestication.  In other words, cats that have reverted back to the wild state after being lost or abandoned, or the offspring of a stray or abandoned cat that has had no human contact for the first few weeks of life.  TNR is a comprehensive management plan where all healthy feral cats are sterilized, vaccinated and returned to their habitat where long-term care is provided.  TNR programs operate largely or entirely through the dedicated efforts of committed volunteers.