The California Veterinary Medical Association encourages and supports actions to eliminate the problem of free-roaming, abandoned and feral cats. The veterinary profession promotes the health and welfare of the animals, residents, and natural environment of California.
A. CVMA supports early (8-16 weeks of age) gonadectomy in cats in an effort to stem the overpopulation problem in this species. The CVMA supports the use of “trap-neuter-release” (TNR) methods as an interim measure to manage cat overpopulation.
B. CVMA supports the concept of using microchip technology or some other form of permanent animal identification.
C. CVMA supports rabies vaccination for cats.
D. CVMA supports licensure of cats.
E. CVMA encourages that owned cats be kept indoors, in an outdoor enclosure, or on a leash. Cats in rural areas must be confined to the property.
A managed colony is one in which the TNR method is being used to sterilize the cats and that is under the regular care and observation of a caretaker.
The ultimate goal is to eliminate the problem of free roaming, abandoned and feral cats.
The CVMA supports management of these cats, which ideally would include the following:
1. Written permission of the property owner.
2. Communication between local Animal Control and individuals providing support for the cats’ maintenance.Daily feeding and monitoring and addressing sanitation needs where applicable.
3. Maintenance of an ongoing healthcare program which provides sterilization, vaccination, disease screening, and other medical and surgical care.
4. Managed cats should not be within close proximity to a school, playground, recreational area, or hospital.
5. When managed cats are encroaching onto a biologically sensitive area, consideration should be given to the impact of the cats on the environment.
6. Education and training for caregivers and the general public should be provided including, but not limited to, public health, personal safety and the impact on wildlife and the environment.