Cat Trap-Neuter-Release Program Launches In Essex

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As spring approaches and the weather improves, Essex residents are encouraged to watch for and notify the animal control officers about colonies of free-roaming cats.

This past February, Essex Town Council approved the new Trap, Neuter and Release program. This program is intended to help slow the growth of colonies of free-roaming or feral cats in the municipality. Free-roaming cats are cats that have reverted to some degree of wild and originate from former domesticated cats that were lost or abandoned. They live in environments involving little human contact and are often referred to as feral cats.

The Town’s Animal Control Officers, with assistance from other volunteers, will trap free-roaming or feral cats using metal traps identified with Town of Essex tags. The cats will be transported to local veterinarians to be spayed or neutered and then returned to their territory or colony. Residents are asked not to disturb the traps.

“Research shows that TNR programs respect a free-roaming cat’s wild state and are considered to be a humane way of stabilizing the growth of feral cat populations,” says Donna Hunter, Director of Corporate Services.

The Town of Essex provides animal control services through Essex County K9 Services. Residents wishing to report the presence of free-roaming cats can reach Essex County K9 Services at 519-816-7627.