In 2013, Macomb County Animal Control initiated a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program as a humane and non-lethal approach to long term free-roaming cat population control. Cats that participate in the TNR program are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and have their ear tip clipped to symbolize that they have been sterilized through the program, and they are returned to the area that they came from.
Outdoor, unowned or free-roaming cats that live in our community are referred to as "community cats." Community cats can have a range of behaviors and socialization levels, and can live long, healthy lives outdoors. They are occasionally called stray, feral, alley, wild, neighborhood or tomcat.
The community cat population can be controlled if we take proactive action to prevent them from reproducing. If you notice a cat that is living in your area that doesn't have an ear tip, there is a chance that the cat is not sterilized. It is sad and unfortunate that these cats have ended up living their lives outside, but many have adjusted and become happy with the outdoor lifestyle. As a resident of Macomb County, you have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of these animals and maintain a healthy and sterile community. Read about our Shelter-Neuter-Return program!
Macomb County residents now have the opportunity to request a voucher from Macomb County Animal Control to cover the cost TNR sterilization package offered by All About Animals. Participants will be limited to 3 vouchers per month. Community cats must be trapped within our service areas of Macomb County and must then be safely released back into the originating area. An appointment must be secured through All About Animals Rescue following their stray community cat protocol. Participants are responsible for completing a voucher request form, humane live trapping, scheduling appointments with All About Animals, transportation (including drop-off and pick-up) on their scheduled appointment date, and the safe release of the community cat. Our team will follow-up with participants to verify that the voucher has been properly utilized.
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Program
The Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program is proven to be humane and effective at controlling outdoor cat population growth. Using this technique, cats will be vaccinated, spayed/neutered, ear-tipped for identification, and then returned to their original territory. The goal of this SNR program is to maximize quality of life for the cats and to minimize growth of the colony over time.
Macomb County Animal Control (MCAC), its staff, and participating vet clinics use qualified staffing and approved materials for all procedures performed. Carefully read, understand, and agree to all of the following before signing your name.
This program is not currently available for the residents of Eastpointe, Mount Clemens,
Sterling Heights or Warren. These residents should contact their city
Animal Control departments in regards to the TNR programs that are available in their areas.
TNR terms and conditions:
- I agree that all cats participating in this program will be spayed/neutered and will be ear-tipped, no exceptions. Cats will also receive age-appropriate vaccinations.
- I understand that the cat(s) must be transported and remain in a live trap due to temperament and in order to ensure safety of the animal(s) and the staff.
- I understand that there is some risk of injury to the cat(s) or death in the procedure and the use of anesthetics and medications. If the cat is pregnant at the time of surgery, I understand that pregnancy will be terminated.
- I understand that cats must be visually healthy in order to participate in the TNR program. Sick cats must receive medical care from a licensed veterinarian.
- I agree that any cat who is medically untreatable or in severe or chronic pain will be humanely euthanized at the veterinarian’s discretion while the cat is under anesthesia. I understand I will be notified post-euthanasia.
- I understand that if a bite occurs during the TNR process, staff will follow Michigan State Rabies protocol unless vaccination records can be produced.
- I agree to pick the cat up after surgery is performed, according to All About Animal protocol and return the cat to the location it was trapped and release it.
- I agree to provide adequate food, water, and shelter to the cats following Community Cats Best Practices, after their release.
- I understand that there are consequences if I fail to comply with the Terms & Conditions of the TNR Program. If I am not present nor I do not make arrangements for picking up the cat at my scheduled time, I will be charged with abandonment.
- I understand that failure to comply with the terms of this agreement will prevent me from participating in the Macomb County Animal Control TNR program in the future.
Check out local low-cost TNR options: