Trap Neuter Return

The Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) Program is a community-driven initiative that allows residents to help manage feral cat populations within Mesa limits. Residents who are aware of feral cat colonies within Mesa limits can register with Mesa Animal Control to participate in the program.

Once registered, participants receive a unique Participant/Trapper ID and are paired with a designated veterinarian. Participants are responsible for trapping the cats and scheduling spay/neuter surgeries with their assigned vet. Mesa covers the cost of the procedures.

Registration meetings are held several times a year—in Winter, Spring, and Fall. These sessions provide important information on program guidelines, responsibilities, and participation requirements.

Due to limited space, residents interested in attending a registration session should email TNR@MesaAZ.gov to receive updates on upcoming meetings.

What is TNR?

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a humane and effective method to help control feral cat populations and reduce nuisance behaviors including fighting, spraying, destructive behavior, and predation. With TNR, cats are humanely trapped, spayed/neutered, ear-clipped, and returned to their environment.

Trap: A feral cat is humanely trapped.

Neuter: The cat is spayed or neutered by a veterinarian. An ear is “tipped” or “notched” to identify the cat has been altered. This is a universal identifier of a sterilized feral cat.

Return: The cat is returned to its original location where it was previously living when trapped. Returning the cat stabilizes the colony and prevents a vacuum effect which causes other feral cats to take over the voided territory. This effect is a phenomenon that is scientifically known across all types of animal species.

TNR Benefits

Ends the reproduction cycle, limiting the growth of feral cat populations
Eliminates or minimizes annoying behaviors such as spraying, yowling, and fighting
Helps end the increase of unwanted cats in a community

How do I use the TNR Cat Trap?

Our TNR program cat trap is designed for ease of use, with straightforward steps to ensure quick and effective setup. Watch the video below for a step-by-step guide on how to properly arm and set the trap.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is TNR?
TNR stands for Trap-Neuter-Return. “Feral” or “community” cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, ear-tipped for identification, and returned to the area where they were trapped.

2. Why are cats returned instead of removed?
Returning cats helps keep the colony stable. If cats are removed, new unaltered cats may move into the same food/shelter source, often called the “vacuum effect.”

3. Where should cats be returned after surgery?
Cats should be returned to the location in which they are trapped, the location does not have to be the exact spot in which the trap was placed, however it should be the same residential address, so the cat will return to a familiar place.

4. Who qualifies for the program?
You must be a city of Mesa Resident to register. Please note if you are in a Maricopa County or outside the city limits you are not eligible for this program.

5. Is there a cost?
The only cost is your time! The city of Mesa incurs fees associated with spay and neuter surgeries.

6. How many cats can I get help with?
As many cats as our budget will allow. We do not limit the number of cats individual participants can bring in, however if funds become limited, restrictions may be put in place.

7. Do I have to trap the cats myself?
Yes, our program is community-driven and requires our registered trappers to trap and transport cats. Participants are also responsible for scheduling surgery with assigned veterinarians.

8. Where do I get a humane trap?
Once you become a registered trapper the City of Mesa will provide you with one trap, if available. You are not required to use this specific trap; however, we ask that all traps used are safe and humane for the cats, our vets, and you.

9. What information do I need to apply?
To apply for our program, you must be a city of Mesa resident. We require all residents to provide a valid form of ID (drivers license, State ID Etc.) and a utility or insurance bill with the same residency address as your ID (Car registration is also valid).

10. What if the cats are causing nuisance issues?
Here is a link to a list of cat deterrent tips to help keep cats off your property: See Cat deterrent tips link: https://www.mesaaz.gov/Resident-Resources/Animal-Control/Cat-Resources

11. Who should I contact for assistance with TNR?
TNR@mesaaz.gov for registration email list if interested in the City of Mesa TNR program, or ADLA (Animal Defense League of Arizona) for one time spay and neuter or other resources for outside the city of mesa.

Low Cost Services

Interested?

Are you a Mesa Resident and interested in TNR?

Send an email with your name and phone number, along with a note stating your interest, to TNR@mesaaz.gov.