RESOURCES

Community Cats, Humane Trapping & TNR

Outdoor does not mean homeless.
Many free-roaming cats have owners, caretakers, or established territories. Before trapping or removing a cat, take time to determine whether the cat is truly in need of assistance.

Community cats are a common part of life in Siskiyou County. Some live independently outdoors, some are cared for by neighbors, and some have dedicated owners who allow them to roam.

What Kind of Cat Is It?

Feral Cat

A feral cat is not socialized to people and prefers to avoid human contact.

  • Avoids people
  • Lives independently outdoors
  • Experiences extreme stress when confined

Helpful Resource:
Consider local TNR resources for spay/neuter assistance.

Stray Cat

A stray cat is a lost, abandoned, or dumped pet cat.

  • Relies on people
  • May appear confused or frightened
  • Often benefits from human assistance

How We Can Help

Check for a microchip and look for an owner.

Free-Roaming Cat

A free-roaming cat is an outdoor cat with an owner or caregiver.

  • May have an owner
  • May visit several homes
  • May be fed by neighbors

How We Can Help

Observe before intervening. Outdoor cats are not automatically homeless.

Siskiyou Humane Society does not currently operate a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program and does not provide trapping or sterilization services for community cats. We do, however, provide educational resources and, when available, humane trap loans through our Lend-A-Trap Program.

TNR & Spay/Neuter Resources

Siskiyou Humane Society does not currently operate a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program. The organizations below may be able to assist with feral cat spay/neuter services.

 SHS Can Help With

  • Education and guidance about community cats
  • Determining whether a cat may be feral, stray, or free-roaming
  • Resources for found kittens
  • Humane trap loans when available

Thinking About Trapping?

  • Is the cat feral, stray, or owned?
  • Are kittens involved?
  • Do you have a veterinary plan?

Cats should not be trapped simply because they live outdoors.

Need to Borrow a Humane Trap?
Call (530) 926-4052

Found Kittens?

Many kittens that appear abandoned still have a mother caring for them nearby.

Before picking them up, observe from a distance and determine whether the mother returns.


Help! I Found Some Kittens