Analysis of the impact of trap-neuter-return programs on populations of feral cats.

Analysis of the impact of trap-neuter-return programs on populations of feral cats.
OBJECTIVE:
To evaluate 2 county trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs for feral cat population management via mathematical modeling.

DESIGN:
Theoretical population model.

ANIMALS:
Feral cats assessed from 1992 to 2003 in San Diego County, California (n = 14,452), and from 1998 to 2004 in Alachua County, Florida (11,822).

PROCEDURE:
Data were analyzed with a mathematical Ricker model to describe population dynamics of the feral cats and modifications to the dynamics that occurred as a result of the TNR programs.

RESULTS:
In both counties, results of analyses did not indicate a consistent reduction in per capita growth, the population multiplier, or the proportion of female cats that were pregnant.