Once Upon A Feline TNR

29/05/2025

Today, we were able to release three more adult cats, including a male tomcat (we did not get w photo of the two females we caught). However, during this process, we discovered three more kittens suffering from severe upper respiratory infections. Sadly, one of them was actively passing away and had to be humanely euthanized. The other two are now on antibiotics and receiving eye treatments.

Once again, we find ourselves overwhelmed with kittens and drowning in veterinary bills. We currently owe thousands of dollars to our vets, and we can’t pay it off without your help.

Furrever & After Cat Sanctuary urgently needs kitten supplies like wet and dry kitten food, KMR, miracle ni***es, Terramycin eye ointment, Snuggle Safe heating pads, bowls, blankets, towels, and more. You can find our wishlists on our website at www.furreveraftercats.org/donate.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference and helps us continue the lifesaving work we do. ❤️🐾

28/05/2025

Check out this video of us releasing a lot of the kitties we caught so far. It is truly amazing the accomplishments we have made at this location and we’re so happy to be able to help the cats by getting them fixed, vaccinated, and then returned back to their colonies. ❤️🐾

145 likes, 5 comments. “We have been working on a huge project in Ohio at a local farm with over 30 adult cats and several litters of kittens. So far, we have trapped 14 adult cats and have been able to place all of the litters, except for one. So far, we have spent over $700 on the vet care of ea...

23/05/2025

❣️TNR Update from the Field❣️

It’s been a busy few days as we continue our trapping efforts at a large ongoing project. On Thursday, we successfully trapped 6 more cats, all of them females! They were transported to our clinic where they were spayed, ear-tipped, vaccinated, and fully vetted.

Did you know? A single unspayed female cat, along with her offspring, can produce over 400,000 kittens in just seven years. That’s why spaying even one female cat can have a massive impact on controlling the community cat population.🙀

While on-site, we also discovered several deceased adult cats and kittens—a heartbreaking reminder of why our work is so important. Amid the loss, we found a tiny black kitten crying out alone. No mama was in sight, and we believe he got separated from the litter we rescued earlier. He’s incredibly soft, had a URI (which we’ve already started treating), and is now safe, loved, and recovering well. He’ll be available for adoption soon!

So far, we’ve trapped 14 cats out of an estimated 30 adults at this location, and we’ve spent $697 on medical care. We’ll be heading back out Tuesday to keep the momentum going.

Want to make a difference? You can sponsor a TNR cat today and help us continue saving lives:

🔗 https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/once-upon-a-feline-tnr-program

15/05/2025

❣️Urgent Help Needed ❣️

This week, we successfully trapped and spayed eight adult cats — all females — preventing countless litters from ever being born. While this is a major TNR victory, we’re now facing an urgent and heartbreaking situation.

We’ve been unable to secure rescue placement for five litters of kittens still at the barn. When our board member returned to release the spayed cats, they found two deceased kittens and three others very sick with upper respiratory infections. We’ve taken in the three sick babies, but we’re desperate to find safe placement for the remaining kittens, who are about 3–4 weeks old. Some are starting to become “spicey,” picking up on their mothers’ feral cues. Since all the adult cats are feral, we don’t know which kittens belong to which mother.

The barn is not a safe environment — it’s open to wildlife and the elements, and after already losing two kittens, we’re incredibly concerned for the rest.

We are willing to transport to any rescues willing to partner with us. Any help is deeply appreciated.

Additionally, the vet bill for the eight cats was $395. Thanks to some amazing donors, three cats were sponsored this round — but we’ll be returning in about a week to TNR the next group, and your support could make all the difference.

If you’d like to donate or sponsor a TNR cat, please consider contributing here:

👉 https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/once-upon-a-feline-tnr-program

Every dollar helps us continue this life-saving work.

08/05/2025

‼️ URGENT HELP NEEDED ‼️

We’ve been contacted about a large cat colony—approximately 30 cats—and FIVE new litters of kittens ranging from 1–3 weeks old. The caretakers live on a farm where cats are frequently dumped, and they are completely overwhelmed.

We’re urgently looking for:

1. Volunteers to assist with trapping
2. Rescues willing to take in a litter or two
3. Sponsors to support the TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) efforts

Sponsoring a TNR cat helps reduce overpopulation one cat at a time. Each sponsored cat will receive:

• Rabies vaccine
• FVRCP vaccine
• Flea treatment
• Ear tip for identification

They will then be safely returned to their colony.

Any donation helps! Please consider supporting this effort—it truly makes a difference.

Donate Today:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/8d1aa424-9344-4653-a076-64ff50f6a9b9

18/03/2025

We have been receiving a TON of requests for our TNR program. However, we are in need of volunteers to help us make this possible. We have several colonies we want to get started on as soon as possible. If you are interested in volunteering, we would love to talk more. Please sends us a direct message ! You don’t have to have prior experience in trapping to be a volunteer. ❤️

10/02/2025

We are hoping to get back to doing TNR very soon. However, we’d love to have more volunteers helping us with our program. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please reach out to us via direct message or email us at [email protected]. No experience is required as we always love educating and teaching new people. Let’s work together to save lives !

28/12/2024

Let’s talk about Trap-savvy cats when doing TNR!

Trap-savvy cats can be the trickiest to catch for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) efforts. These clever cats have likely had past experiences with traps and have learned to avoid them. But don’t worry—there’s a highly effective tool for situations like this: the drop trap.

What is a Drop Trap? 🤔
A drop trap is a manually triggered trap that uses gravity to safely contain a cat. Unlike traditional box traps, the drop trap doesn’t require the cat to step on a pressure plate, making it a great alternative for skittish or wary cats.

Steps to Using a Drop Trap:

1. Set Up in a Quiet Location
- Choose a familiar spot where the cat feels comfortable.
- Place the trap on level ground and secure it to prevent tipping.

2. Bait the Trap
- Use high-value food like tuna, mackerel, or chicken to entice the cat.
- Scatter small food bits leading into the trap, but place the majority in the center under the trap.

3. Prepare to Monitor
- Stay nearby but out of sight, with a clear view of the trap.
- Keep the pull cord or remote release system within reach.

4. Timing is key 🔑
- Wait until the cat is fully inside the trap and not near the edges.
- Pull the cord to drop the trap quickly but gently.

5. Transfer the Cat
- Use a sheet or blanket to calm the cat and carefully move them into a traditional trap or transfer cage.
- Be cautious and move slowly to avoid startling the cat further.

Tips for Success:

- Use Camouflage: Cover the drop trap with natural materials like leaves or branches to make it less intimidating.
- Pre-Bait the Area: Place food in the drop trap (without triggering it) for a few days so the cat becomes accustomed to it.
- Be Patient: Trap-savvy cats require time and trust-building. Stay consistent and don’t rush the process.

Drop traps are an essential tool for TNR, especially for those cats who seem to outsmart every other trapping method. By being patient and persistent, you can help even the most cautious cats get the care they need!

If you have a trap-savvy cat that needs help, please reach out to us via direct message or comment below. 💜

09/12/2024

Today, our TNR coordinator returned to the Mineral Ridge colony and successfully trapped a female cat named Caramel. She was transported to the clinic, where she received a spay surgery, vaccinations, flea treatment, and an ear tip to signify she’s part of a managed colony. Tomorrow, she’ll be returned to her home, where a dedicated caretaker ensures her well-being. 💗🐾

Spaying just one female cat like Caramel can have an extraordinary impact. A single unspayed female and her offspring can produce thousands of kittens in just a few years. By fixing Caramel, we’ve not only improved her health and quality of life but have also prevented countless future litters, helping reduce the overwhelming population of stray and feral cats in our community.

You can help us make a difference! We’re looking for sponsors to support our TNR program. Sponsoring one cat covers the costs of spay/neuter, vaccinations, and other care. As a thank-you, sponsors will receive a personalized letter and photo from the kitty they helped.

To sponsor a TNR cat:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/8d1aa424-9344-4653-a076-64ff50f6a9b9

Thank you for continuing to support our mission to help cats in need. ✨

07/12/2024

🐾 Winter Survival Tips for TNR Cats 🐾

Winter is a tough season for outdoor cats, especially those in TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs. As temperatures drop, it’s important to provide them with the tools they need to survive and stay safe. Here are some practical ways you can protect feral and stray cats during the cold months:

1. Provide Warm Shelters

- Use weatherproof shelters that are insulated and elevated off the ground.
- DIY shelters can be made with plastic storage bins or Styrofoam coolers. Line the interior with straw (never hay or blankets, as they retain moisture).
- Ensure the entrance is small (6-8 inches) to keep predators out and heat in.

2. Offer Plenty of Food

- Provide extra food in the winter to help cats maintain their energy and body heat.
- Wet food served warm is ideal, but dry food works too if wet food freezes quickly.
- Use feeding stations with covers to protect food from snow and rain.

3. Provide Access to Fresh Water

- Water bowls freeze quickly in winter. Use heated water bowls or insulated containers to keep water from freezing.
- Place bowls in the sun to slow freezing, or add a few drops of vegetable oil to prevent ice from forming as quickly.

4. Create Safe Pathways

- Cats will seek shelter under cars for warmth. Always check under your car and bang on the hood before starting the engine.
- Clear snow from the entrances to shelters and feeding stations so cats can access them.

5. Monitor Their Health

- Keep an eye out for any cats showing signs of frostbite (white or gray patches on ears, nose, or paws) or illness.
- Reach out to local rescues or veterinary clinics if a cat appears injured or sick. We are always willing to help in emergency situations with TNR cats.

6. Trap and Neuter Whenever Possible

- Spaying and neutering prevents unwanted litters and helps outdoor cats focus on survival rather than mating in the harsh winter months.
- TNR cats are already ear-tipped—help others in your community understand their role in managing outdoor cat populations.

7. Educate Your Neighbors

- Spread awareness about how to help outdoor cats during the winter. Share tips like these and encourage others to build shelters and provide food and water.

By taking these steps, you can make a life-saving difference for feral and stray cats during the coldest months of the year. Together, we can ensure they stay warm, fed, and safe this winter.

🐾 If you’re interested in building or donating shelters for TNR cats, reach out to us—we’d love to help! Thank you for being a voice for these deserving animals. 🐾