Community Cat Resources

HELPFUL TIPS AND RESOURCES FOR COMMUNITY CATS

Community Cats is a term used to describe any outdoor cat that appears to not have an owner. Unsocialized feral cats fall under this category, as do free roaming friendly cats.

In Apache Junction, cats are not subject to the same licensing or leash laws as a dog. They are considered “free roam” animals and our officers do not pick up cats. Shelters are not required to pick up cats or obligated to take them in.

Often, people wish to remove stray cats from their property due to nuisance behavior such as yowling, fighting, or spraying. TNR (Trap-Neuter-Release) is an effective method for humanely addressing community cat populations. Cats are neutered, then safely returned to their colony.  TNR is a long proven and effective method for humanely addressing community cat populations.

BENEFITS OF TNR:

- Reduces unwanted mating behaviors (fighting, yowling, spraying)

- Halts the breeding cycle which allows the community cat population to stabilize and eventually decline

SPAY NEUTER HOTLINE (ADLA): 602-265-7729
INJURED OR SICK ANIMALS (AHS) 602-997-7585

What can you do to help keep community cats away from your property?

- Remove or secure all potential food and water sources from your property, including dog food

- Spray concentrated orange juice or hang citrus peels in areas where cats are spraying. Cats do not like the citrus scent

- Keep all trash and recycle bins tightly closed, as cats are opportunistic feeders/hunters

- Use a motion detecting device that turns on a sprinkler or bright light in response to motion on your property

- Remove or secure potential shelter areas. Block access under sheds and porches

- Spread dried wild animal manure in the areas you notice feral cats in your yard

- There are also many commercial cat repellants available in garden stores, pet shops or online

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR TNR AND COMMUNITY CATS

Animal Defense League of Arizona (ADLA)   https://adlaz.org/

 Fix Adopt Save https://www.fixadoptsave.org/

 Foundation for Homeless Cats https://www.thefoundationforhomelesscats.org/

 Ally Cat Allies https://www.alleycat.org/

 Altered Tails https://www.alteredtails.org/

 Spay Neuter Hotline (TNR) 602-265-7729

 AZ Humane Society (Sick or Injured) 602-997-7585