In a significant shift aimed at addressing the growing feral cat population, Tazewell County Animal Control has announced that it will no longer euthanize feral cats. Instead, the county will implement a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program designed to humanely manage and reduce the feral cat population over time.
Last year, Tazewell County experienced a 15% increase in the number of feral cats caught by its animal control department compared to the previous year. This rise in numbers highlighted the ineffectiveness of the current method, which involved euthanizing many of the captured cats.
The TNR program, set to launch on June 1, will involve trapping feral cats, spaying or neutering them, vaccinating, microchipping, and then returning them to their original locations. This approach not only prevents future births but also helps maintain the territorial integrity of the feral cat colonies, discouraging new cats from moving in.
Libby Aeschleman, Director of Tazewell County Animal Control, explained the benefits of the TNR program: “By this method, you’re now putting a sterilized cat back into the community where it is territorial and will keep other cats from moving in. Therefore, it would prevent the birth of future kittens and bring down the population over time.” Additionally, this method frees up shelter space, allowing more cats to be adopted and saves money for other shelter needs.
The program will be rolled out with assistance from the Tazewell County Animal Alliance, which will help cover medical costs associated with spaying, neutering, and vaccinating the cats. Animal control plans to trap one colony of cats at a time, ensuring a systematic approach to managing the feral cat population.
While the TNR program has its supporters, there are some who oppose it due to concerns about the welfare of cats living outdoors. Mary Tiefenbrunn, Board Member of the Illinois Animal Welfare Federation, acknowledged these concerns: “They understand we want to prevent the euthanasia of cats, but they also think cats being left outside – even though they may seem to be okay – are certainly subject to a lot of risks.”
Residents who spot feral cats are encouraged to contact Tazewell County Animal Control at 309-925-3370. By participating in the TNR program, the community can help manage the feral cat population humanely and effectively.
The move by Tazewell County reflects a growing trend towards more compassionate and sustainable animal control practices. The success of this program could serve as a model for other counties and municipalities facing similar challenges.
