Community Cat Program
Our Commitment to Community Cats
At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA, we’re dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of all cats — especially those living outdoors in our neighborhoods. Through our Community Cat Program, we provide compassionate care, promote humane solutions like Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR), and support education and advocacy to protect these often-overlooked animals.
By working with local residents, volunteers, and partners, we're building a healthier, more humane community for cats to live and thrive.
Our Solution
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Trap
The Community Cats are trapped in a humane live trap with the instruction of the HBSPCA and hard work of the Colony Caregiver.
Neuter/Spay
Once brought into the HBSPCA, the cats are then put through the surgery process to get them properly fixed.
Vaccinate
During their time at the HBSPCA, they are also given their routine vaccines to keep them healthy.
Return
After a day of recovery at in the HBSPCA recovery centre, the cats are then picked up by their Colony Caregivers and returned to the exact location they were trapped.
Did You Know...
In some cases, if the cat presents itself as sociable and friendly, the HBSPCA staff undergoes a behaviour assessment with the animal. If the animal passes this assessment, and shelter space allows, we then enter the cat into the Adoptions process to be matched with their furever home – giving them a second chance at a safe and healthy life. Additionally, if shelter space opens and there was a Community Cat that was previously returned to their colony, our team will issue a call-back to the Caregiver to bring the cat back to the HBSPCA for us to put through the Adoptions process.
Become a Registered Colony Caregiver
By registering, you're not only aiding us in the effective management and support of community cat colonies but also playing a pivotal role in reducing the Community Cat population. Registration enables us to meticulously track the movements of Community Cats, optimizing our trapping efforts and ensuring that each cat receives adequate care and support.
Moreover, your pro-active registration aligns with the local city bylaws of the City of Hamilton, safeguarding you against any potential fines for unlawfully feeding community cats. It’s a step towards responsible and lawful caretaking, allowing you to continue your compassionate efforts.
What’s Next?
After you have successfully completed the Colony Caregiver Registration Form, your contract will be formally registered with the HBSPCA. This process can take anywhere between 5-10 business days.
