Community Cat Program

  • What is a Community Cat?
    A community cat is an outdoor, free-roaming cat that has been evaluated and sterilized by a licensed veterinarian. These cats are ear-tipped for identification, vaccinated for rabies, microchipped, and documented by the TNR group. Afterward, they are released back into the area where they were originally found.

  • What are the provisions of the Community Cat Program?
    Free-roaming cats without acceptable identification that have been impounded or trapped may be evaluated as potential community cats based on age, health, and behavior. If deemed suitable, these cats may receive services such as spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and ear-tipping for visual identification. These services are offered by our animal welfare partners and may be covered by grant funding or individual payments. Once treated, the community cat provider will return the cat to its original location.

    Existing community cats identified by their ear tip may be returned to the community immediately and are exempt from the standard legal hold period.

  • What is a Community Cat Provider?
    A community cat provider is someone who provides food, water, shelter, or general care for community cats and follows program guidelines.

  • Which Communities Provide a Community Cat Program?

    • Unincorporated Parts of DeKalb County – Covers areas outside city limits. Visit the DeKalb County website for more details: www.co.dekalb.in.us

    While DeKalb Humane Society is not directly affiliated with these programs, we are happy to provide information about them.

    Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinics
    To support pet owners who do not qualify for these TNR programs, we are partnering with Four Directions Veterinary Services to host low-cost spay/neuter clinics. Watch for upcoming dates on our website or follow us on social media for updates. Learn more about Four Directions Vet at www.fourdirectionsvet.com.

    Humane Fort Wayne offers low-cost spay and neuter services, as well as non-emergency walk-in veterinary care. Services and availability are managed directly by Humane Fort Wayne. For current details, hours, and eligibility, please visit humanefw.org./clinic

A tabby cat sitting on a paved street, with houses and greenery blurred in the background.
Close-up of a tabby cat with green eyes staring at the camera.