ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Homeless cats get help from caregivers

Hawaiian Humane Society

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For more information To learn more about TNRM, request a copy of the cat caregiver guidelines, call 946-2187, ext. 223. www.hawaiianhumane.org, Programs and Services, Feral Cat Sterilizations or Neuter Now. You can also help provide free sterilizations for colony cats by donating to the Humane Society's feral cat sterilization fund. Those living on Neighbor Islands should check with their local humane society about special sterilization programs. On Kaua'i, call (808) 632-0610; on Maui call (808) 877-3680; on the Big Island call (808) 329-1175.

The start of the new year brings the total back to zero. Throughout the year, the number rises steadily each day. Most of the animals brought to the shelter are unsocialized (or feral) cats, homeless felines who live in colonies at parks, shopping centers, campuses and elsewhere throughout the island.

Since the Cat Protection Law was enacted in 1995, the number of cats wearing IDs has grown dramatically, which has resulted in more lost cats being reunited with their families. But though the total number of cats brought to the Humane Society has declined since 1995, the number of homeless cats in the community remains high.

Since one unneutered cat and her offspring can produce 420,000 kittens in just seven years, it's easy to imagine why Oahu's homeless cat population is such a tragic problem.

Those who have studied the dynamics of cat colonies have determined that one way to maintain a reasonable life for unsocialized cats while helping reduce their population is TNRM, which stands for Trap-Neuter-Return-Manage.

Recognized as a successful and humane way to reduce stray cat populations, TRNM depends on the kindness of cat caregivers. More than just feeding cats, caregivers keep close watch on a colony, have the cats sterilized and provide veterinary care when needed. TNRM gradually diminishes the size of the colony as the cats live out their natural lives without reproducing.

Last year, the Hawaiian Humane Society worked with 506 cat caregivers who dedicated their time and money to feed and care for cat colonies.

The Humane Society, a non-profit organization, performed 2,792 sterilization surgeries at no charge in 2003 for cats in managed colonies — about 23,000 surgeries since this special sterilization program began in 1993.

Sometimes people see cat caregivers feeding the colonies and think they are perpetuating the homeless cat population, but their ultimate goal is the same as ours — that every cat has a home.

"We hope all those who care for feral cats will take advantage of this free service," said Pamela Burns, Hawaiian Humane Society president.

"Pet overpopulation is a people problem, not a pet problem, and people can solve the problem by doing the right thing. We try to make it easy for them to do what's right — for the cats and for the community. If you feed cats in your neighborhood, become their caregiver.

Feeding stray cats is a kind gesture, but without taking responsibility for the animals and making sure they are neutered, you are adding to pet overpopulation."

Each domestic animal deserves a chance to be a companion animal in a caring home. But there just are not enough homes for all of them. Before breeding season begins again, do what you can to reduce pet overpopulation.

ADOPTABLES

Tag No. 24548

This big amiable cat enjoys socializing with humans and some other cats. At age 6, Jasper qualifies for the Seniors for Seniors program. Jasper's adoption fee will be waived for those who are age 60 or better. Find out more from an adoptions counselor.

Kai

At 18 months of age, Kai is tall, brown and handsome. He gets along with other dogs and loves to play. This pit mix has learned good manners through the shelter animal behavior program. He will be happy joining a loving family with children.

These particular animals may have already found new homes. Please visit to see all the wonderful pets in person. The Hawaiian Humane Society & McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open noon to 8 p.m. Monday — Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends including Easter. The incoming animals area is open 24 hours. If you've lost or found an animal, call the Humane Society immediately at 946-2187, ext. 285. The Web site address is www.hawaiianhumane.org.