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Pet cats are socialized to interact with humans and currently owned. Owned cats are allowed to free-roam within the City and we cannot respond to calls about loose cats.
We strongly recommend that owned cats be spayed or neutered. Especially if they are outdoors. See our Resources and Information page for more resources.
A stray cat is not afraid of humans and was probably a pet at one time. It may have been abandoned or lost . Strays and Free-roaming pets can be VERY difficult to tell apart.
Feral cats are unsocialized and afraid of people. They live much like wild animals and many of them were born into this lifestyle. Feral cats can not be adopted and would not make good pets. TNR programs are the best way to control the feral cat population and provide them with the best quality of life possible.
Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, we had to eliminate our TNR program. Low cost alternatives include the Animal Spay and Neuter in Auburn, the Community Spay and Neuter Clinic, and the Sacramento SPCA.
The primary goal of TNR programs is to reduce the free-roaming cat population and improve public health by providing vaccinations and surgeries to free-roaming cats. TNR also reduces over-crowding in shelters and euthanasia of healthy cats.
Relocation is difficult to coordinate and execute, animals often don't stay in their new location, and removal of the colony leaves a void that is often filled by the arrival of a new colony. In short, relocation of animals usually fails and we do NOT relocate community cats or other wildlife.
Sacramento Feral Resources - a website containing links to many local organizations and rescues
Coalition for Community Cats - a local non profit group
Alley Cat Allies - a national feral cat group with extensive information on TNR and feral cats.
Start by talking to your cat-owning neighbors about your frustrations and concerns then give them time to resolve the problem. For tips on how to talk to your neighbors read Neighborhood Toolbox (PDF).