Trap-neuter-return programs for feral cat colonies are the primary humane alternative to lethal control, though their effectiveness and wildlife impact are actively debated.
Feral cats live short, often harsh lives with high rates of disease, injury, and starvation. TNR improves welfare for individual cats that remain in colonies while halting population growth. The conservation impact on wildlife requires careful site selection — TNR colonies near wildlife reserves cause more harm than those in urban cores far from bird-sensitive habitat.