Trap-Neuter-Return

What Is TNR?

The Whitman County Humane Society (WCHS) provides Trap–Neuter–Return (TNR) assistance for feral cats residing in Whitman County.

TNR is a humane, evidence-based population management strategy for free-roaming cats. Cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered by veterinary partners, and returned to their original outdoor location.

This process:

  • Prevents future litters

  • Reduces nuisance behaviors associated with unsterilized cats

  • Stabilizes and gradually reduces colony size

  • Improves overall health and welfare of outdoor cat communities

Free-roaming cats account for the majority of kittens born each year. TNR is the most effective long-term solution for managing feral cat populations.

Who Qualifies?

  • Residents of Whitman County

  • Feral cats only

Feral Cat Definition:
A feral cat is a domestic cat that lives outdoors and is not socialized to humans. These cats are typically fearful, cannot be safely handled, and are not suitable for indoor adoption.

Feral cats differ from stray cats, which are lost or abandoned pets and may be re-socialized and adopted.

How to Participate

  • Ensure the cat is feral and located within Whitman County.

  • Complete the WCHS TNR Program Application.

  • WCHS will confirm eligibility and provide next steps.

  • Humanely trap the feral cat. (trap rentals are available.)

  • The cat remains safely inside the trap and is taken to a participating veterinary clinic for spay/neuter surgery.

  • The cat is spayed or neutered.

  • After recovery, the cat is returned to its original outdoor location.

  • Traps must be returned undamaged within 30 days to receive the deposit refund.

TNR Application
TNR Application

Trap Rentals

WCHS offers humane trap rentals to approved participants.

  • $50 refundable deposit required

  • Deposit returned if trap is undamaged and returned within 30 days

Cost & Donations

A donation of $45 per cat is suggested but not required.

Funding for this program is provided through donations and grants. Contributions help offset medical and material costs for our veterinary partners and allow WCHS to continue offering TNR services to the community.

Please note: Applications may be denied if program funding is not available at the time of request.

Thank you for helping improve the health, stability, and long-term welfare of outdoor cat communities in Whitman County.