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Trap–Neuter–Return

Learn about Flathead County Animal Shelter’s Trap-Neuter-Return program for outdoor, feral cats, including eligibility, services provided, trap requirements, and next steps.

Outdoor Cats

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Program

The Trap-Neuter-Return Program helps reduce the number of feral cats and kittens in Flathead County through humane trapping, sterilization, vaccination, and return.

This program is for outdoor, feral cats only. Cats must be at least 4 months old, or 16 weeks, and must come to their appointment in a humane live trap.

What Is TNR?

Trap-Neuter-Return, often called TNR, is a humane way to help manage outdoor feral cat populations. Cats are trapped, brought to FCAS for veterinary care, and then returned to their outdoor location.

This helps reduce future litters while allowing outdoor community cats to remain in the environment where they are already living.

Programs like Trap–Neuter–Return align with national efforts such as the Million Cat Challenge , which promotes humane, community-based approaches to managing outdoor cat populations.

What Each Cat Receives

Spay or Neuter Surgery Sterilization helps prevent future litters.
Vaccinations Cats receive rabies and FVRCP vaccination.
Parasite Prevention Basic parasite prevention is provided as part of the program.
Microchip Identification Microchip identification is included.
Ear Tipping Ear tipping shows that the cat has already been sterilized.

Program Guidelines

  • This program is for outdoor, feral cats only.
  • Cats must be at least 4 months old, or 16 weeks.
  • Cats must arrive in a humane live trap.
  • The trapping party is responsible for releasing the cat where it was found or rehoming the cat appropriately.
  • There is no charge for this service.

Humane live traps are required

Cats must come to their TNR appointment in a humane live trap. Traps may be rented from Midway Rental or Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, or purchased from a local farm and ranch store.

How to Use the Program

  1. Contact the Animal Shelter.
    Call to ask about TNR appointment availability and current requirements.
  2. Trap the cat safely.
    Use a humane live trap and follow any instructions provided by shelter staff.
  3. Bring the cat to the scheduled appointment.
    The cat must arrive in the live trap.
  4. Pick up and release or rehome the cat.
    The trapping party is responsible for returning the cat to where it was found or arranging appropriate rehoming.

Not sure if this program fits your situation? Contact the Animal Shelter before trapping or transporting a cat.

Schedule a TNR Appointment

Please contact the Animal Shelter to ask about TNR appointments, current availability, and program requirements.

(406) 752-1310

Page Last Updated: May 5, 2026