Spay/Neuter Assistance Program
The availability of free or low cost spay/neuter in New York City has been greatly reduced in recent years. To promote the practice of TNR and help NYC caretakers get their community cats fixed, Neighborhood Cats is offering financial assistance for spay/neuter surgeries. The amount of funding will be determined on a case-by-case basis at the sole discretion of Neighborhood Cats. SNAP is supported by the Community Cats Podcast.
To apply
- Please read the program guidelines
- Complete the one-page application form and return to jackie@neighborhoodcats.org
Info for veterinarians on community cats
Eartipping
The universal mark of a neutered community cat is a straight line cut of 1 centimeter off the tip of the left ear. By identifying the cat as having already been spayed or neutered (and rabies vaccinated), an eartip prevents unnecessary re-trapping and promotes effective management of community cat colonies. Go to Eartipping for a detailed medical protocol, sample photo of a correct eartip, and sample video of the procedure.
Caring for cats in traps
Neighborhood Cats strongly recommends community cats, if they are feral, remain housed in their traps while at the clinic. For the safety of staff and the cats, do not attempt to transfer them in and out of cages. Instead, keep and care for them in their traps except when they are sedated. For a detailed protocol and video on how to do so, go to Caring for cats in traps. Contact us if you need a pair of dividers or purchase them at Tomahawk Live Trap.
Veterinary protocols for community cats
Learn from the experts! For how to best manage and treat community cats, see Community cat protocols for a detailed guide from the ASPCA as well as articles from other veterinary professionals.
FIV/FeLV testing
For the vast majority of TNR programs, testing for FIV and FeLV is not standard procedure. Testing is considered appropriate only when a cat is symptomatic and the veterinarian believes it will assist with diagnosis and treatment. For a discussion of why tests are not usually performed, go to FIV/FeLV testing.