Alley Cat Allies and our volunteer Feral Cat Task Force continue to humanely and effectively manage the outdoor cats residing at the Meadows of Chantilly property in Virginia, including distributing cat deterrents and reaching out to residents to share information and learn more about individual’s needs.

Read the updated story here.

Alley Cat Allies' Feral Cat Task Force Begins Work in Chantilly, Virginia

Read the updated story here.

Alley Cat Allies to Ask China to Provide Humane Care for Outdoor Cats

Media outlets are reporting that in preparation for being at the center of the world’s attention during this summer’s Olympics, China’s leaders have ordered a round-up of thousands of cats to be taken off the streets of Beijing and sent to death camps. With your help, Alley Cat Allies is working to open the lines of communication with the Chinese government to stop the spreading of false information and the killing of Beijing’s cats.

Learn more.

Sign the petition opposing the trapping and killing of Beijing’s cats.

Long Island Community Launches Trap-Neuter-Return Program

The town of Oyster Bay, in Long Island, New York, is beginning a Trap-Neuter-Return program, saying it is, “the least costly, as well as the most efficient and humane, way of stabilizing feral cat populations.” Alley Cat Allies has been working in support of such a move and applauds their efforts.

Learn more.

Randolph, Iowa’s Bounty on Cats Out, Trap-Neuter-Return is In and Being Implemented

After a nationwide protest, the Randolph, Iowa City Council shut down the mayor’s feral cat bounty and agreed to implement a Trap-Neuter-Return program instead. Best Friends Animal Society is heading up the on the ground efforts. This story has served as a catalyst for change in communities around the country, many of whom have contacted Alley Cat Allies requesting help planning and implementing their own program.

Read the article.

Read the history of Alley Cat Allies’ involvement.

Cape May City Council Vows to Protect Trap-Neuter-Return Program

On Tuesday, March 4th, the Cape May, New Jersey City Council signed the beach management program provided to them by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, while still vowing to protect their successful 12-year Trap-Neuter-Return Program. Dozens of supporters showed up to rally against the approval of the plan on the steps of city hall. With over 9,000 of your signatures, Alley Cat Allies and its supporters are hopeful that the future of the town’s cats has been secured.

Read the press release.

March

Alley Cat Allies Successfully Negotiates to Protect Virginia’s Cats!

Thanks to your help, property management company Equity LifeStyle Properties agreed to the plan proposed by Alley Cat Allies to continue and strengthen a Trap-Neuter-Return program for the more than 200 cats at the Meadows of Chantilly property in Virginia, abandoning a plan to trap and kill them all.

A Bounty on Feral Cats in Randolph, Iowa

The mayor of Randolph, Iowa wants residents to trap local outdoor cats and bring them in to be killed for a payment of $5 a cat. Local residents are outraged.

Meadows of Chantilly's Trap-Neuter- Return Program in Jeopardy: Equity LifeStyle Properties plans trap and kill at trailer park.

On Monday residents of the Meadows of Chantilly, a community in Fairfax County, Virginia, came home to find a letter stating that their property management company, Equity LifeStyle, had hired a pest control company to trap and kill the cats, most already spayed and neutered, residing on the property.

February

Rally to Support Cape May, New Jersey Cats

Cape May’s successful Trap-Neuter-Return program is being threatened by a Beach Management Plan from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service aiming to shut it down, which will lead to the trapping and killing of outdoor cats. On March 4, the Cape May City Council will vote on the plan. The cats need your help!

Learn how you can join us at the City Council meeting and rally to show your support.

Join the thousands who have already made their voices heard and SIGN THE PETITION TODAY.

Learn more about the situation.

The Cape May, New Jersey, Cats Still in Danger

Cape May’s well-established, successful Trap-Neuter-Return program is being threatened. Abolishing this program would lead to trapping and killing of outdoor cats. The cats need your help. Join the thousands who have already made their voices heard and SIGN THE PETITION TODAY and show your support for Cape May’s outdoor cats.

Learn more about the situation.

Cape May Postpones Decision on the Fate of Feral Cats

Cape May, NJ - On Tuesday night, February 19, the Cape May city council meeting played to standing room only as more than 100 dismayed residents packed the quaint auditorium over a proposed vote on a beach management plan. The proposed plan would virtually eliminate the city’s groundbreaking and highly successful twelve-year old Trap-Neuter-Return initiative from many of the community’s beachfront neighborhoods. Mayor Jerome “Jerry” Inderwies tried to explain to the distraught residents, many of whom are active caregivers, that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection are essentially holding this year’s beach-sand replenishment hostage pending the council’s approval of their flawed, ineffective beach-management plan. (more)

Cats No Longer Threatened by Virginia Senate Bill

A Virginia Senate committee dropped all references to cats from a recent bill that would have mandated cat licensing and required animal control to impound any cat found without a collar and license tag. Due to the concerns of Alley Cat Allies, its supporters, and other citizens, the Virginia Senate Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources voted on Monday, January 15 to amend the bill and remove the cat licensing and impoundment provisions. Alley Cat Allies will continue to monitor and object to legislation that harms the interests of cats.

Click here to read the letter Alley Cat Allies sent to the Senators on the committee considering the bill.

Alley Cat Allies’ National Advocacy Conference

In October Alley Cat Allies held a National Advocacy Conference in the DC area. Over 100 were in attendance. To view presentations and photos from the conference click here.

Nova Scotia Trap-Neuter-Return Group Logs Successes and Credits Alley Cat Allies

TeamTNR in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia looks back on their successful ongoing Trap-Neuter-Return efforts, using Alley Cat Allies as the source of their information and planning ideas. Read more. Have a similar story? Tell us.

January

ACA Sends Letter Urging Sen. Boxer to Oppose H.R. 767

Alley Cat Allies has been actively monitoring proposed bill H.R. 767, which seeks to eradicate “harmful nonnative species” in federal wildlife refuges and adjacent private lands. The bill could leave hundreds of species open to target—cats among them—and could lead to the wholesale slaughter of numerous species, subsidized by citizen tax dollars.

Click here to read the letter ACA sent to Sen. Boxer.

Click here to learn more about the bill.

Charge Against Galveston Feral Cat Caregiver Dropped

On Monday, January 15, 2008, the city of Galveston, Texas, dropped the misdemeanor charge against Mr. John Newland, the feral cat caregiver who testified against Jim Stevenson in last year’s cruelty trial. Mr. Newland had been charged with “keeping” too many animals.

“We’re glad the city dropped this unwarranted charge,” says Wendy Anderson, legal director of Alley Cat Allies. “Animal control laws apply to pet owners, not to Good Samaritans like Mr. Newland.”

Read more about this story in The Galveston Daily News.

To learn more about the State v. Stevenson cruelty trial, visit our Anti-Cruelty Center.

To learn more about the adjective “feral” used to describe some cats, click here.

Feral Cat Video Gaining Momentum

Alley Cat Allies has turned up the volume in the fight to save feral cats. Already 25,000 people have viewed our new video public service announcement and learned the important truth about feral cats. But so many more still need to hear the message. With your help, we can reach 50,000 people in 50 days to share this message and build the movement to stop the killing and start humane care.

Click here to watch the video today. Have you already watched the video? Send it to friends and family to educate more people.

ACA President's Letter Supporting J.F.K. Airport Cats Printed

Becky Robinson, President of Alley Cat Allies, responded to an article in USA Today. Her letter was published Friday, November 30, 2007.

Interested in sending a letter of support for the cats? Click here.

URGENT: Virginians, Tell Your Senators to Oppose a Bill Which Will Kill More Cats!

The Virginia Senate will meet Monday, January 21 to consider a mandatory cat licensing and cat “leash-law” bill which would require animal control to pick up and impound any cat found without a collar and license tag. These animals will be taken to pounds and shelters where the majority of cats are killed. All cats are at risk, but for feral cats, who do not have traditional “owners” to license them, this bill would be a death sentence.

Click here today to send your senators a letter urging them to oppose this bill!

Click here to read the letter Alley Cat Allies sent to the Senators on the committee considering the bill.

Local Veterinarians Train to Help in Effort to Manage Cat Population in Baltimore

BALTIMORE, MD — Alley Cat Allies and the Maryland SPCA will hold a full-day, hands-on laboratory training session for local veterinarians on Saturday, January 12 to teach them the latest spay/neuter procedures for cats so that low-income pet owners and stray and feral cat caregivers in Baltimore may more easily access these critically needed services. (more)

For more information about what ACA is doing in Baltimore, click here.

2007

December

The New York Times Misses the Mark: Humans Kill Birds

The New York Times article “Kill the Cat That Kills the Bird?” (Bruce Barcott, December 2, 2007) skirts the real issue: humans are the number one threat to birds. The article only fleetingly mentions that human habitat destruction is the greatest cause of bird species decline. Instead, it focuses on a perceived struggle between cats and birds, which trivializes the greatest threats facing birds today.

Click here to read more about the number one cause of bird species loss.

Click here to read more about the number one cause of cat mortality in the U.S.

November

Baltimore Mayor Signs Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Bill!

Baltimore, MD – Tuesday, November 27, 2007 Mayor Sheila Dixon of Baltimore signed the proposed changes to the city's animal control ordinances. It was with your help that changes which would make it easier for feral cat caregivers to practice Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) passed. Alley Cat Allies applauds the City of Baltimore for taking such a firm stand in favor of reducing the number of cats killed in their local shelters and supporting the local volunteers who care for their community’s cats. Click here to see a local news report or here for more information.

ACA Chicago Volunteer in the News

Chicago, IL - Trap-Neuter-Return is the goal of a Chicago woman. Yvette Pina says it's great for the animals and the community. (more) Make sure you check out the video on the side!

Galveston Cruelty Case Won't Be Retried

The Galveston County District Attorney's office decided not to retry the case of the Galveston, Texas, man charged with animal cruelty for shooting and killing a feral cat. The trial ended in deadlock on Friday, November 16, with eight of 12 jurors voting to convict. It is important to note that although defendant was not found guilty, he was also not found innocent. While the decision not to retry is disappointing, fortunately, Texas law has recently been clarified to expressly include feral cats. Please visit our Anti-Cruelty Resource Center for more information.

October

National Feral Cat Day

Events are being held through the month of October. Click here to find events in your area.

Read the official press release here.

Alley Cat Allies President Becky Robinson explains how a new public opinion survey reveals that 81% of Americans want stray cats to live. Listen to the interview.

National Victory for Trap-Neuter-Return Program

CAPE MAY, NJ - City council voted unanimously Monday to keep the Trap, Neuter and Return (TNR) program for cats operating despite pressure by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to adopt a plan that would have eliminated TNR. (more)

ACA Gives Workshop in Kansas

Learn how to help outdoor cats by joining us as we give a workshop in Wichita, KS, with Friends of Felines this Saturday, Oct 20th.

National Capital Spay and Neuter Center – “Collar Unbuckling”

WASHINGTON, DC – Alley Cat Allies and Washington Humane Society have formed a partnership to launch the region’s first low-cost spay/neuter center to serve the entire DC metropolitan area.

Alley Cat Allies’ Becky Robinson and WHS’s Lisa LaFontaine “unbuckled the collar” at the ceremony. The facility will provide spay and neuter services for feral and stray cats and estimates it will complete 8,000 total surgeries in the first year.

Stray But Not Forgotten

The Washington Post reports on the important work of Alley Cat Allies and President Becky Robinson.

"A lot of people were told, 'If you want to help cats, you should help the tame ones. You can't take these into your home,' " she said. "And that's okay with us. But we still want to improve their lives, and we don't want them killed." (more)

ACA to Help Launch DC Spay and Neuter Clinic

WASHINGTON, DC – Alley Cat Allies and Washington Humane Society have formed a partnership to launch the region’s first low-cost spay/neuter center to serve the entire DC metropolitan area.

The new facility will be able to provide services to at least 75 animals per day and will play a crucial role in sterilizing and therefore controlling the reproduction of stray and feral cats through Trap-Neuter-Return. (more)

TAKE ACTION: Make TNR the Only Option for Feral Cats in Baltimore

Help make Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) the only method of outdoor cat management in Baltimore! On August 13th, the ordinance was formally introduced to City Council by the Mayor. Tell Baltimore’s City Council why you support TNR and why they should too!
This action for Maryland residents only.

View the official press release here.

To learn more about the new coalition of humane organizations in Baltimore click here.

Animal Planet's Cat Hero of the Year Award

Multiple nominees for Animal Planet's Cat Hero of the Year Award support feral cat programs and TNR! Nominees include Gertrude Maxwell, Cimeron Morissey and Maryanne Farrell. To learn more and to vote click here.

Attend Alley Cat Allies’ National Cat Advocacy Seminar October 12 & 13. Register Today!

Join Alley Cat Allies, the nationally recognized experts on improving the lives of outdoor cats, in our nation’s capital. Learn how you can unite and mobilize to make nonlethal policies and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) the norm.

Conference details here.

Cats on Campus
Stanford University's Feral Cat Program: The Stanford Cat Network

The Stanford Cat Network was highlighted in The Chronicle of Higher Education. This publication is the No. 1 source of news and information for college and university faculty members and administrators.

For more information on The Stanford Cat Network click here.

September

NFL Player Loses Court Case over Feral Cats: Court Rules in Favor of Feral Cat Caregiver

Carolina Panthers punter Jason Baker lost his suit. The court rejected the “conventional wisdom” that feral cat caregivers are the factual cause of feral cat colonies, and held that a caregiver was not liable for property damage caused by feral cats in a colony she was properly managing. Read the legal analysis and the court opinion.

New! View Alley Cat Allies' Trap-Neuter-Return Videos on the Web

You are now able to view The Humane Solution and Trap-Neuter-Return videos on the internet.

Trap-Neuter-Return: A Humane Approach to Feral Cat Control
You can download the video here for free or purchase it in our Marketplace.

The Humane Solution: Reducing Feral Cat Populations with Trap-Neuter-Return
You can download the video here for free or purchase it in our Marketplace.

SC Town to Continue Feral Cat Program

Pawleys Island, SC - Pawleys Island Town Council has decided to continue a cat catch-and-release program after Waccamaw Neck residents and representatives from the St. Frances Animal Center told council members the program is effective. "The thing that seems to work is the trap, neuter and release program," said Nancy Campos, director of the St. Frances Animal Center. "Whether a person is an animal-lover or not, there is still a responsibility to act in a humane fashion."

Connecticut Gives Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Grants

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture introduced in fiscal year 2007, a new grant program to provide up to $40,000 in vaccination/sterilization benefits for feral cats. Applications must be turned in by September 29, 2007. For more information click here.

August

Pittsburgh City Council Says “No” to Cat Licensing

Thanks to Alley Cat Allies’ supporters, Pittsburgh City Council members received more phone calls and e-mails about this topic than any other so far this year – and they listened.

Alley Cat Allies Gives Felines Political Clout

WASHINGTON, DC - ACA started as a grass-roots organization in Becky Robinson's home. Today, Alley Cat Allies is a national force with a $3 million budget and a volunteer force of 100,000. In many states, it works to set policy promoting TNR. ACA targets an estimated 40,000 publicly funded shelters and animal organizations on behalf of feral felines. "A sheltering program that doesn't protect those animals, that instead kills them and doesn't provide life-saving measures like sterilization and training for the public, we believe that is something taxpayers should know about, and that's politics," said Robinson. (more)

Alley Cat Allies in Chicago

7/14/07 – ACA held the first in a series of educational public meetings about stray and feral cats. Chicago residents, both English and Spanish speaking communities, are very concerned about how they can help cats and ACA has provided comprehensive materials and advice. The Saturday meeting in Pilsen confirmed the community feels obliged to assist “neighborhood cats.” They learned about the veterinary clinics available for spay/neuter and vaccinations in targeted zip codes of the city. (more)

The Day the Cat Bylaw Came Back

An editorial written on a Canadian council’s attempts to “regulate” cats by imposing laws and ordinances – closely relates to cat ordinances on U.S. soil. A clear argument against cat regulation. Read the editorial.

ACA’s Atlantic City Feline Frenzy – Overwhelming Success

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - It was a feline frenzy for volunteers looking to help control the feral cat population in Atlantic City this weekend. The method they use is widely accepted as the only humane, yet effective technique to help keep the cats under control.

Read the full story or watch the newscast (courtesy of NBC40)

Support Cape May's Premier TNR Program!

CAPE MAY, NJ - Early in the morning on Saturday, May 18th, 37 cats were killed in a fire that broke out in two trailers where the cats were housed. Cape May’s feral cat Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program was one of the first of its kind and has been thriving for twelve years. Unfortunately, the local government is considering stopping the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program. Send a letter with your condolences for the cats and your support for their premier TNR program. (more)

July

ACA Chicago Feral Cat Program Highlighted

CHICAGO, IL - Chicago – In an effort to shed light on the growing Trap-Neuter-Return movement in the city, Chicago Public Radio covers an Alley Cat Allies community TNR workshop in the neighborhood of Pilsen, on Chicago’s South Side, and follows area trappers in their quest to trap cats that night.

June

State Issues Fines to Feral Cat Caregivers

Upper Keys, FL - Florida Fish and Wildlife have issued several feral cat caregivers fines for feeding cats and creating a public nuisance; one ticket resulted in a $295 fine. The caregivers, who have spent their own money to sterilized and vaccinate the cats, will be fighting their citations in court. (more)

TNR Program Helps Save Furry Four-Legged Friends

Salt Lake City, UT - The West Valley City Animal Shelter and No More Homeless Pets in Utah formed a unique partnership in 2002 that has produced phenomenal results in terms of saving lives. Prior to the partnership, roughly 70 percent of all the animals entering the shelter were being euthanized; now, that number is down to 34 percent. (more)

May

Alley Cat Allies Appeals to Hugh Hefner to Protect Feral Cats in the Florida Keys

Alley Cat Allies (ACA) appealed to Playboy founder Hugh Hefner for help in a last-minute effort to save countless feral cats from a controversial attempt to assist declining rabbit populations. ACA has worked for years to stop the U.S. FWS’s lethal population management policies, seeking the use of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), not trap-and-remove to manage the outdoor cat population. Click here for more information. Click here to take action.

Click here to read ACAs’ open letter to Hugh Hefner

Urgent! Protect Cats in the National Key Deer Refuge

Effective immediately, the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service has begun the process of trapping and killing feral cats residing within the National Key Deer Refuge in southern Florida. Feral cat advocates have fought for several years to prevent harm to these cats – still the authorities are insistent. Take Action – contact your federal representatives today and tell them you oppose killing cats on federal lands.

Feral Felines in Pontiac To Be Trapped and Neutered with City's Consent and Money

Pontiac, IL- The council voted to give city staff authority to spend funds for volunteers to capture unsocialized, outdoor cats and to have veterinarians alter them. The caught kitties will either be put up for adoption or released to their colonies. (more)

Alley Cat Allies Advisory Board Member and Vet School Director Dies

Dr. Richards was a mentor to many, a friend to feral cats, and served on the advisory board of Alley Cat Allies. (more)

The Ithaca Journal article can be found here.

Time Is Running Out!

Join ACA and committed advocates to learn how you can unite and mobilize to make nonlethal policies and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) the norm in your community. Register now for the San Francisco or San Jose Feral Cat Advocacy Seminars to be held May 7th and 9th respectively.

Cat Food Recall Continues

The FDA's website stays up-to-date with new information about the continuing pet food recall. Check the list often as more products may be added. Please keep your eye on the news and internet for the latest developments as they occur.

Katrina Recovery Project

Read about ACA's current work
in Louisiana.

April

Feeding Feral Felines Called Foolhardy

Omaha, NE - Omaha City Council will review amendments to city ordinance that could mean fees, permits and strict regulations for feral cat caregivers. (more)

Man Indicted for Feral Cat’s Death

Galveston, TX — A grand jury Wednesday indicted the founder of the Galveston Ornithological Society on a felony charge of cruelty to animals. (more)

Feral Cats: The Neighbors You May Never See

"It is estimated that the feral cats living on the streets of the United States number in the tens of millions." Read up on feral cats and TNR as Encyclopaedia Britannica highlights the issue on their weekly Advocacy for Animals blog. Scroll down to the second story. (more)

Feral Cat Cull on Island Has Devastating Effect

A plan to clear a remote Australian island of feral cats to save the millions of rare seabirds on which they were preying has created an alarming ecological domino effect. The resulting degradation of Macquarie Island, half way between Tasmania and Antarctica, has been branded an international embarrassment by scientists. (more)

Chicago Feral Cat Seminar A Success!

Alley Cat Allies and other activists, shelter employees, and rescuers met up this weekend in Chicago for the Midwest Cat Advocacy Seminar. Read the official press release about the event and stay tuned for more details!

The Cat's Meow of Animal Control

St. Paul, MN - The Cadillac of cat-neutering RVs is ready to roll. The Neuter Commuter, a spanking new, $171,000 RV custom made for spaying and neutering animals, is the main tool in a plan to limit the feral cat population.

Victory for Feral Cats in Torrance, CA

With the help of Alley Cat Allies local activists came together to stop a proposed feeding ban from coming to fruition. While more meetings are to come between the City Council and local residents about the details, the Council has firmly agreed to allow for the feeding of feral cats in managed colonies. (more)

March

Spay/Neuter Funding Available in FL

Grant applications are now available for funds collected from the Florida Animal Friend spay/neuter license plate fund. The committee will accept proposals for feral cat sterilization programs.

The grant application is available here.

Animal Killing on Way Out, Boks Says

Los Angeles, CA - Animal Services boss Ed Boks isn't content with the 7 percent drop in dog and cat deaths during his first year in office. "As we get our feral cat ... populations under control, we will take yet another giant leap toward no-kill," said Ed Boks.

February

Feral Cats: Giving Compassion the Boot

THE PLIGHT OF FERAL CATS is one of those hot topics sure to generate lots of missives to these pages. Sadly, the feline proclivity for procreation creates multitudes of strays that band together in colonies. Disease and starvation is often their lot, unless warmhearted humans--like 76-year-old Dolly Beszterczey of Fredericksburg--step in. Now, for the simple kindness of feeding stray cats, she's being evicted. (more)

It's still a cat's world on Mare Island

Mare Island - Feral cats are no longer being shot and killed on Mare Island thanks to the newly formed Mare Island Feral Cat Committee, led by city councilmember Stephanie Gomes. Gomes hopes to implement a program that traps the cats, then spays and neuters them. (more) (article only accessible in paid archives)

Mini-Feline Frenzy and Spruce Up Day for Feral Cats on Philadelphia Waterfront

Philadelphia, PA - On December 2, 2006, Alley Cat Allies teamed up with local volunteers and the ASPCA in a mini-Feline Frenzy and early holiday gift by holding a clean-up day for a feral cat colony living on a Philadelphia pier. (more)

January

Court Rules: Feeding and Sheltering Feral Cats Does not Violate Zoning or Housing Codes

Oneonta, NY - On May 9, 2006, the Supreme Court, Otsego County, held that the City of Oneonta, New York, had acted arbitrarily and capriciously when it interpreted various zoning and housing code provisions as prohibiting the feeding and sheltering of feral cats. Read the analysis and text of the Court’s opinion here.

National Feral Cat Day is More Than Just One Day

NFCD, held every October 16th, is actually the kick-off of a yearlong campaign to promote awareness of feral cats and feral cat issues.

As a supporter you can help us with this important cause. We’ve provided materials on www.nationalferalcatday.org that will help you inform others throughout the year and prepare you for NFCD '07!

Garden's Cats May Get TLC and TNR

San Antonio, TX - Communitywide TNR is endorsed in the Animal Care Services five-year strategic plan to reduce the number of cats entering the municipal shelter, but the City Code must be rewritten to make it legal. If the council approves the agreement, the Tea Garden colony will be exempt from the code while the ACS advisory board revamps it with an eye toward citywide TNR. (more)

Metro Cat Action Team (MCAT)

Alley Cat Allies has formed Metro Cat Action Team (MCAT) to bolster and promote Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) services in the Washington, DC metro area, encompassing the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia, and suburban Maryland. ACA’s monthly Northern Virginia No-Cost Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Clinic, founded in 1997, is the cornerstone of the area’s growing resources.

If you live in the DC metro area, check out www.MCATdc.org. If not, click here for resources in your area.

2006

December

Feral Cats Deserve Attention

Joliet, IL - You don't have to be an animal rescuer per se, or have any affiliation with a shelter or rescue organization, in order to be involved in this campaign. All you need is belief and dedication to the cause, and a willingness to do something about it. However, not all cat lovers know the difference between a stray and a feral cat. (more)

AzCATS Breaks Spay/Neuter Goal

Phoenix - In honor of National Feral Cat Day on October 16th Arizona Cat Assistance Team (AzCATs), vowed to set a new record. “Our goal was to humanely trap and end the breeding cycle for 1,000 free-roaming cats during the month of October, the organization’s largest TNR effort since its inception,” says President & CEO, Melissa Newton. “We are pleased to announce that we not only achieved our goal, we surpassed it, ending the breeding cycle for 1,200 free-roaming cats in October.” (more)

October

Trying to Herd a Cat Stat

Can a single female cat and her offspring really produce 420,000 cats over just seven years? This is one feline number that has nine lives. Though no one I spoke to could say for sure where it comes from, and no one defended it, the myth of the precociously procreating cat has lived on as an advocacy tool for spaying cats for at least 18 years. (more)

Absurd Law Plagues Cat Lover

San Antonio, TX - Nydia Montero, a concerned citizen who used her own money to TNR feral cats in her neighborhood, has been charged with allowing the cats to roam without wearing a county license and a rabies tag.

"It is so illogical," Jenny Burgess, who runs Animal Rescue Connections in San Antonio, told the newspaper. "If it weren't tragic, it would be laughable."

Oct. 16th is National Feral Cat Day Learn the Truth about Feral Cats!

Bethesda, MD: National Feral Cat Day is October 16th and this year Alley Cat Allies is kicking off a yearlong campaign to publicize the “Truth about Feral Cats.” In preparation, Alley Cat Allies has distributed thousands of advocacy kits to activists across the country, encouraging them to inform their friends, family, neighbors, and local governments. (more)

August

Better to Neuter Feral Cats Than Kill Them

Bismark, ND - "Killing feral cats should not be 'business as usual'"(Bismarck stray animal policy clarified, July 21), wrote ACA's Elizabeth Parowski in response to the Bismark police department's feral cat policy. (more)

ACA Highlighted in MD Paper

Annapolis, MD - This week, I would like to dwell a bit on cats. Feral cats, in particular. I received my newsletter from Alley Cat Allies and was wondering how many people know what this caring outfit does. (more)

July

ACA in Animal Fair Magazine

Alley Cat Allies is in Animal Fair magazine (volume 27) where feral cat photos by David Tanen are featured. The feral cat colony at Brighton Beach in New Jersey is the subject of the 2006 calendar by David is used to raise awareness of feral cats and support Alley Cat Allies programs.

SPCA Announces Task Force To Help Trap Feral Cats

Briarcliff Manor, NY - “In the past, many animal control agencies and municipalities have rounded up and euthanized feral cats to control the population. Extermination is not only inhumane, but also costly and ineffective, as new cats soon move into the areas where other cats have been removed. Numerous studies have proven that trap, neuter, and return is the most successful, practical method of stabilizing the feral cat population at the least possible cost to local governments,” said Steve Diller, Executive Director of the SPCA.

Workshop Brings Local Groups, National Experts, and Animal Lovers Together to Help Stray and Feral Cats

On June 22, 23, and 24, Alley Cat Allies hosted The Feline Forum 2006: Creating a Bright Future for the Feral Cats of Louisiana and Mississippi. (more)

June

Animal Control Officer Opposed to Spay/Neuter Legislation

Cumberland, RI - Mandatory spay/neuter legislation is being opposed by a RI animal control officer. "Much of this law is just unenforceable," said Cumberland Animal Control Director Paul Rose, "What gives me the right to go to your house and say, 'Hi, let me see your cat'? It's an invasion of constitutional rights and people's privacy."

Sacked for Feeding Feral Cats

Cornell, NY - A former farmhand at Cornell University has filed a $20 million lawsuit against the Ivy League school for firing him - because he refused to stop feeding a colony of feral felines that hung around the dairy barn.

Feline Forum 2006: Rebuilding the Gulf Coast Safety Net for Stray and Feral Cats

New Orleans, LA - Join Alley Cat Allies on June 22, 23, or 24 for one of our three workshops for Louisiana and Mississippi caregivers, advocates, and animal control professionals to plan the future for stray and feral cats.

Click here for dates and additional details.

Helping Philly’s Stray and Feral Cats

Philadelphia, PA - Cat lovers, concerned citizens, and animal welfare advocates from across the city of Philadelphia are invited to gather on Tuesday, June 20th at the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel, to learn more about how to help stray and feral cats.

For more information on this event, click here.

Help promote this event in Philadelphia by printing the poster displayed above.

Black and White Version - Color Version

Ruling Allows Caregiver to Continue Caring for Feral Cats

Oneonta, NY - A state Supreme Court judge who ruled in favor of a city property owner in a dispute over a cat shelter on Fairview Street said the city’s actions were "arbitrary and capricious." (more)

In Memory of Shannon Moore

Shannon Moore, passionate advocate for animals and active volunteer for many humane organizations in the New Orleans area, including Alley Cat Allies, passed away unexpectedly on May 31st. A true friend of the animals, she is already greatly missed. (more)

May

Illinois Proclaims National Feral Cat Day

On May 3, the Illinois House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 1235 proclaiming October 16th as National Feral Cat Day throughout the state. This resolution, together with the enactment of Anna’s Law (IL Public Act 94-0639) last August, endorses Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) to manage and reduce outdoor cat populations in Illinois. This is a critical step in informing Illinois residents about feral and stray cats and the importance of using humane methods like TNR to effectively reduce their numbers. Learn more about National Feral Cat Day at www.nationalferalcatday.org.

New Orleans Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Drive is Under way!

New Orleans, LA - Alley Cat Allies is underwriting a massive feral cat spay-neuter drive for much of May in the areas of Louisiana ravaged by Hurricane Katrina and will join with the St. Tammany Feral Cat Consortium to provide the free services beginning today at the Humane Society south of Covington. (more)

Feral Cat Spay-Neuter Drive Gets Under Way Today, The Times-Picayune

New Community Hotline for Feral Cats

East Bay, CA - The East Bay SPCA is now providing Contra Costa and Alameda County residents no-cost feral cat trap rental and no-cost spay and neuter surgeries to help reduce the number of homeless cats in the East Bay. (more)

Illinois Will Recognize Feral Cat Day!

HR 1235 passed the IL House Rules Committee on May 3 making October 16 officially National Feral Cat Day in Illinois! Click here to thank Representative Sara Feigenholtz for proposing this important legislation.

It's a New Orleans Feline Frenzy!

New Orleans, LA - Alley Cat Allies and several other animal welfare organizations in the New Orleans area are hosting a spay/neuter extravaganza from May 8 - May 21. Local volunteers are desperately needed so that we are able to reach our goal of spaying or neutering 1000 cats! (more)

April

Feral Cat Activists Express Opposition to Inhumane Ordinance

Britton, S.D. - An ordinance making it illegal to feed stray animals in Britton has elicited a nationwide response and made some city officials fearful of the reaction the law is getting. "A lot of people are really upset because it sets a really big precedent to be making laws like this that are inhumane," said Pilara Felgate, regional coordinator for Alley Cat Allies. "It's wrong. Everybody should know that." (more)

Angry Neighbor Has Cat Euthanized

Long Island, NY - A wildlife rehabilitator who keeps birds was charged with trapping his neighbor’s cat and taking it to the shelter. This situation happens far too often because shelters are excessively quick to kill. If this shelter took the time to have a dialog with residents to determine what was going on and mediate then they would have been able to intervene and save this cat. Further, if this shelter took humane measures to handle the cats in their shelter, the cat would not have been killed. Let this be a reminder that you should microchip your cats and, if you loose a house or outdoor cat, to be sure to check your local shelter first – go there, don’t just call – and look at every animal, including any they deem “feral." (more)

ACA Helps Tour for Life Kick Off 20-City Campaign

Washington, DC - The North Shore Animal League America, British soul singer Joss Stone, and professional NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, kicked off the 2006 Tour for Life today in Washington, D.C. Alley Cat Allies was on hand to educate visitors about the care and non-lethal control of feral cats in their neighborhoods. (more)

Volunteers Work Long Hours to Reduce Feral-Cat Population

Seattle, WA - The Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Project is ground zero in the Puget Sound area's efforts to curb feline overpopulation. Founded in 1997 by veterinarian Christine Wilford, the project's veterinarians have spayed and neutered tens of thousands of homeless cats for free, including more than 1,000 since Jan. 1 alone. (more)

March

A New Policy and a New Clinic for DC’s Feral Cats

Washington, DC - History was made in Washington, DC, when four colonies of feral cats were sterilized and vaccinated at the Washington Humane Society’s new feral cat spay/neuter clinic on March 12. Thirty-three healthy, sterile cats returned to their outdoor homes today (March 13), fully recovered from surgery. WHS’s new policy is Trap-Neuter- Return (TNR) for DC’s feral cats. Alley Cat Allies assisted caregivers by trapping the cats and transporting them to the all day clinic. Congratulations Washington Humane Society and DC’s feral cats!

Movement Growing to Stop Killing Shelter Animals

BETHESDA , MD. and SAN CLEMENTE , CA., Feb. 27, 2006 -- Two months ago, a healthy orange tabby cat named Wild Bill was killed by the Alexandria , VA , Animal Welfare League. His only crime was not having an indoor home, which according to that shelter's written policies was punishable by death. Alley Cat Allies and No Kill Solutions have called for an end to the killing. (more)

Operation Felix Tackling Toledo's Cat Overpopulation

Toledo, OH - Toledo’s Operation FELIX puts their money where their mouth is with an new spay/neuter clinic and an aggressive sterilization and education program. They show that the answer to breeding cats does not come in a syringe. (more)

Feds Kill Record 2.7 Million Wildlife

Washington, DC - Feral cats are not the only victims of misguided public policies. In 2004, Wildlife Services, a branch of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, killed 2.7 million “nuisance” animals, including but not limited to beavers, opossums, prairie dogs, black bears, coyotes, wolves, and many bird species. The 2004 kill was more than one million animals higher than 2003. Read this report from Public Employees for Environment Responsibility (PEER) here.
Source: www.peer.org

February

Working Together to Save Lives

New Britain, CT - The Animal Alliance Welfare League Inc., and the city of New Britain, are working together to halt New Britain's growing population of feral cats. Jimmy Russo, an animal control officer for the city, agrees that the collaboration is a "great partnership." (more)

Holdenville Hero a Friend to Stray Cats

Holdenville, OK - Gagnon discovered over 200 wild cats living in the ruins. Alarmed at the sight, Gagnon believed he would never be able to help but said he heard a voice ask him, “If not you, then who?” Gagnon began that night the tedious task of trapping the cats for spaying and neutering. (more)

80 Cats, and She's Always Looking For More

Smyrna, DE - On a day in early December, Kathleen Jackson's Smyrna kitchen became an operating room, an extension of her passion to care for and control the local population of homeless cats. (more)

Club Cats Safe From Harm

Arlington, VA - The lives of the stray and feral cats at the Army Navy Country Club have been spared thanks to an outpouring of support from animal welfare activists and club members. Alley Cat Allies will help to improve their situation and to ensure club members’ safety. (more)

January

Health Department Cites Canton Caregiver

Canton, OH - Local animal welfare groups have come to the rescue of two stray cats at risk of starving after the Canton Health Department issued a public nuisance notice to their caregiver, Margaret Hughes. “This woman should not be cited, in our minds,” said Alley Cat Allies' Becky Robinson of Hughes. “This woman should be given an award as a matter of fact, because the woman is doing the right thing and the board of health is doing the wrong thing.” (more)

Humane Society Hopes to Curb Killing

Washington, D.C. - Alley Cat Allies’ DC Cat Assistance Team (DC CAT) is the primary Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for feral cats in Washington, DC and has neutered more than 1500 cats in less than two years. Washington Humane Society is now working directly with ACA to develop a formal animal control program that will for the first time include nonlethal humane control, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), for feral cats in Washington, DC. (more)

Richmond SPCA Performs 10,000 Spay/Neuter Surgeries in '05

Richmond, VA - The Richmond SPCA’s spay/neuter clinic, which provides services for feral cats and the pets of low-income residents, is one of the highest volume sterilization clinics in the country. "Spay/neuter is truly the answer to ending our community’s reliance on killing to control population." (more)

One Cat at a Time, They're Making a Difference

Cambridge, Wisconsin - For Kris Aaron, the tipping point came in April at a Conservation Congress hearing on a proposal to allow people to shoot feral cats. "I threw a fit," said Aaron, of rural Cambridge. "I shot my mouth off and said, 'We'll spay and neuter them.'"

An Ally for Alley Cats

Eureka, California - Sharon Wyche-Frei, a committed TNR advocate and foster parent, has dedicated much of her last eight years to the feral cats she cares for. "Cats have always been there for me at hard times,” she said. “They just show up out of nowhere at hard times, and they’re there for me. I just feel some kind of reciprocal something. I’m not sure what to call it.” (more)

2005

December

Beach Cats: Wild Cats of Sea Bright 2006 calendar

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? There is no doubt that cat lovers will adore these beautiful pictures of Sea Bright's (NJ) feral felines. Order soon as quantities are limited!

TNR: An Animal Control Officer's Perspective

Many animal control agencies in communities throughout the United States are embracing feral cat Trap-Neuter-Return programs to improve animal welfare, reduce the death rate, and meet obligations to public welfare and neighborhood tranquility demanded by local governments. Read the article here (go to page 9 of this newsletter)

"New Attitudes about TNR: Is trap- neuter-return the best answer?"

Check out this feature story on TNR and ACA in Cat Fancy magazine's December issue.
Article not available online.

August

Help Protect Cats in the Gaza Strip!

The evacuation of the Northern Samaria and the Gaza Strip in the Middle East has left hundreds of cats without caregivers. Without funding from the Israeli government, these cats will be left to starve and die. Please help by sending a letter to the Prime Minister and asking for appropriate funding to help relocate these cats. Click here to learn more and to Take Action!

Click here for an update on the Gaza Strip cats and to learn about the heroes helping them.

Palm Beach (FL) Earmarks 50,000 for TNR Efforts

Town Council President Bill Brooks, who chairs the Finance and Taxation Committee, said neither he nor his colleagues questioned the need to maintain steady funding. "I strongly supported it because of the great job Beth Pouncey is doing," Brooks said of the Palm Beacher who serves as the group's executive director. "We haven't had a complaint since Beth took over." (more)

IL Bill S.B. 2078 Still Needs Your Support!

IL residents - please send letters of support to Governor Blagojevich in favor of this feral-friendly bill. Thanks to you it has passed both the House and Senate and now only needs the governor's signature! (more)

NE Humane Society's Plan to Kill Cats Deemed "Revolting"

The Central Nebraska Humane Society could trap and euthanize 1,000 cats next year, thinking it made headway in solving the overpopulation predicament. The problem, though, is that it will also trap and euthanize 1,000 the year after. (more)

Read more about the Humane Society's proposed plan here.

July

It’s Called the Vacuum Effect: Why Trap and Remove Does Not Work and Trap-Neuter-Return Does

The cats are back at Walter's Mobile Home Village. It's not as bad as it was back in February, when dozens of feral or wild cats were rounded up and relocated. (more)
What is the vacuum effect? Read about it here.

Setting the Record Straight for Feral Cats

Don’t miss Nathan Winograd’s straight talking, hard hitting article “Do Feral Cats Have a Right to Live?” Winograd, a former prosecuting attorney and a leader of the no-kill movement, explores society’s relationship to cats and debunks the myths and misinformation. Made available with permission from No-Kill Sheltering. To subscribe visit their website.

Feral Cat Veterinarian and Advocate Comes out on Top

Julie Levy, DVM, a founder of Operation Catnip (FL) and a leader in the fight to save stray and feral cats, was recently named "Outstanding Woman Veterinarian for 2005" by the National Association for Women Veterinarians. (more)

Spreading the Message of No-Kill

Ed Boks, director of Animal Care and Control for New York City, explains how he was inspired to change outdated animal control policies in order to save more animals, including feral cats. (more)

June

Dogs on Alley Cat Allies' Website?

Alley Cat Allies feels it is important to let our supporters know about a recent report that was broadcast on national TV, even though it did not directly involve feral cats. John Stossel, of the ABC program 20/20, recently defended puppy mills and others who neglect and abuse animals against SPCAs who try to bust them for cruelty. For the animals' sake, we need to encourage 20/20 to take greater care in their reporting, so we invite you to read the full story on Best Friends' website and then to write a respectful note to 20/20.

Activists Bring Change to DuPage Animal Control

In response to the appeals of activists demanding that they update their practices, officials in DuPage County (IL) have finally decided to adjust the mission of their Animal Control to be "more about rescue, adoption and education, as well as the public safety issues." (more)

Feral Cats in Cape May Still Need Your Help!

Keep sending those e-mails! The USDA continues to use public money to lethally remove feral cats and other animals from a wildlife refuge in Cape May, NJ. Visit our Action Center to write the Refuge Manager and State Director of Wildlife Services and ask them to consider the only humane option for feral cat control - TNR.

Illinois Residents - We Need Your Help!

S.B. 2078 has passed out of committee and the decision to approve it is now up to your state senators. For this reason, only Illinois residents can send letters. To read up on this ground-breaking spay/neuter legislation and to send letters to your IL senators, please visit our Action Center.

May

The Truth About the Asilomar Accords

Every year, millions of stray and feral cats are killed in our nation — not because they are unhealthy, but because they are unadoptable. Alley Cat Allies and other feral cat experts know that if shelters embrace Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), the euthanasia of stray and feral cats will decrease dramatically. A commitment to lifesaving programs such as TNR and low-cost spay/neuter is the only way to end the killing of healthy animals and effectively enhance humane communities. Read Nathan Winograd’s explanation of why the road to No Kill does not lead through the Asilomar Accords.

Colony Gets a Cleaned-Up Catacomb, Richmond Times-Dispatch

In the Aftermath of a Vote to Shoot Cats in Wisconsin, Alley Cat Allies Calls on Residents to Act

The vote taken by the Wisconsin Conservation Congress supporting Question 62, a proposal to list domestic cats as an unprotected species, represents the views of only a small percentage of Wisconsin residents: hunters. Less than .02 percent of Wisconsin attended the advisory meetings Monday night. (more)

WI Residents and Non-WI Residents! Send a letter of thanks to Governor Doyle and DNR Secretary Hassett for their support of humane solutions to cat overpopulation.

April

Stop Florham, NJ From Instituting Feeding Bans

There is an upcoming vote on two proposed animal feeding bans in Florham Park: one ordinance against feeding stray animals and the other against feeding wild animals.

April 11-17 is National Animal Control Appreciation Week

Do you know your animal control officers? Whether your community has an animal control agency or this responsibility falls under your police or health department, it is important for you meet the people who carry out animal control duties. If you don’t know who is responsible for local animal, use this week to learn about your local government. (more)

Paintings Made By Cats? Spay and Stay - IL

Cats, cats, cats, Bolton Common - MA

ACA Offers a New Resource for Caregivers and Advocates!

What if animal control issues you a citation for feeding or caring for feral cats? What can you do? Alley Cat Allies is developing a series of factsheets giving step-by-step guidance on how to find a local lawyer and even tips on what to say! To view the first in this series, click here.

Cape May Cat Trapping Leads to Meeting

The USDA is using public money to lethally remove feral cats and other animals from a wildlife refuge in Cape May, NJ. Animal Control Officer John Queenan says he has "never seen any documentation that cats are part of the problem causing a decline of piping plovers and other endangered shorebirds." (more)

March

Mobile Clinic Helps Fix Feral Felines

"It’s managing it,” said Dacono community resource officer Kelli Revoir. “You can’t eradicate it, you can only manage it."

Revoir said stray and feral cat problems don’t go away no matter what officials do. She believes the best thing to do is trap the animals, fix them and release them back into the community knowing that they won’t add to the problem by having more litters. (more)

ACA Spay/Neuters 512 Cats at Two-Day Clinic!

Last month, Alley Cat Allies, in conjunction with the D.C. Department of Health, spayed, neutered and vaccinated more than 500 cats -- 200 pets and 300 stray and feral cats. A small but vocal group of parents felt that the clinic, held at Eaton Elementary School, posed a health risk to their children. (more)

Read a special message from Alley Cat Allies.

See Best Friends' Response to Feline Frenzy!

Fix is in for Feral Cats, Arizona Republic - AZ

A Day to Spay, Davis Enterprise - CA

Cat Control, Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier - IA

Foster City Steps up Efforts to Control Feral Cat Population, The Examiner

At Home in the Wild, Weekly Reader

February

Vermont Group Aids Feral Felines, Rutland Herald - VT

Paws up for Feral Friends, The Lumberjack - CA

Philadelphia Commits to No-Kill Future (PDF)

Humane Ohio Reaches Milestone, Toledo Blade

Burlco Tries to Get Funds for Spaying, Neutering, Courier-Post

January

City to Launch Trap-Neuter-Release Program, The Morning Call Online

Madison County has a cat problem. Linda Shaffer says she has a solution, The Oneida Daily Dispatch

2004

December

Tips for Cat Lovers and Those Who Aren't, Post-Gazette

Strays of Hope, Naples DailyNews

Students Give Cats the Gift of a Home, Delaware Online

Alley Cat Allies Awarded ASPCA/Fresh Step Safe Steps Home Grant

Group aims to reduce feral cat population, Examiner

Humane Ohio to Reach Milestone!

USM program looks to halt cat problem, Hattiesburg American

On the prowl for a feline fix, The Chronicle Online

November

Towns not wild about feral cats, Omaha World-Herald

Feral cats at 'critical mass,' Daily Herald

CATastrophe: Queenan Says Flood of Ferals Due to Refusal to Trap, Neuter, Cape May County Herald

Habitat For Cats "Passionate About Saving Feral Felines," Rochester Democrat and Chronicle

Feral Cat Policy Now Less Restrictive, York Dispatch

Spay and Stay Gets Day in Court, Pioneer Press

October

Following Francis’ Example, The Catholic Telegraph

U.S. Faces Growing Feral Cat Problem, National Geographic News

Reverse the Feeding Ban in Stone Harbor, NJ

September

Update on Parsippany Feeding Ban, Daily Record

Why Trap-Neuter-Return?

August

Deserving Group Wins Grant, the Daily Reflector

For Feral Cats, a Quick Snip -- and Freedom, The Washington Post

Update on Lower Windsor Township, The York Dispatch

Read About Pfc. Hammer - the Heroic Cat from Iraq

Rocky Mountain News and Pfc. Hammer Comes Home!

Another Vote for TNR!, Aahanet.org

Vet School Awarded $1.5 Million, The Auburn Plainsman

PA Town to Vote on Cruel Feeding Ban, Pittsburgh Live

July

Cruel Ordinance Passed in Illinois

The city council of Waukegan, Illinois has approved a new ordinance that will result in the killing of feral cats due to the unrealistic restrictions put on their caregivers. (more)

Five Million Dollar Commitment

The ASPCA recently committed five million dollars to the Mayor's Alliance for New York City's Animals Inc., whose goal it is to make New York City "no kill" in five years. (