Reduction of free-roaming cat population requires high-intensity neutering in spatial contiguity to mitigate compensatory effects.

ABSTRACT: When free-roaming in natural areas, the domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) is ranked high among the most destructive alien species. Near human dwellings, it might pose a risk to humans, impair sanitation, and suffer from poor welfare. Cats' popularity as companion animals complicates their population control. Thus, culling is often replaced by a fertility control method called “trap–neuter–return/release” (TNR), considered more humane. Despite the extensive application of TNR, a long-term controlled study was never performed to test its effectiveness. We present a uniquely designed controlled field experiment for examining TNR effectiveness. The study was performed over a 12-y period, divided into preintervention and mixed- and full-intervention phases, and spanned a 20-km2 urban area.

SUBMITTER: Gunther I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9169806 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature