This bill ensures statewide consistency by preempting local ordinances that prohibit or restrict Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), while still allowing reasonable regulations that protect public health and safety.
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a humane, effective, and evidence-based method for stabilizing and reducing community cat populations. In a TNR program, community cats are humanely trapped using box or drop traps, transported to a veterinarian to be spayed or neutered and vaccinated, ear-tipped (the universal sign that a cat has been sterilized and vaccinated), and then returned to their outdoor home.
TNR works because it addresses the root cause of overpopulation: uncontrolled breeding. Once sterilized, cats can no longer reproduce, and colony sizes naturally decline over time.
Why TNR Matters:
Population Stabilization and Long-Term Reduction
TNR immediately halts reproduction within a colony and gradually reduces its size, breaking the endless cycle of breeding that overwhelms shelters and communities.
Healthier Cats and Safer Communities
Sterilized cats are healthier, with lower risks of certain cancers and infections. They fight less, roam less, and are vaccinated against rabies and other diseases—improving public health and safety.
Fewer Nuisance Complaints
Neutered and spayed cats are quieter, spray less, and engage in fewer territorial disputes, reducing neighborhood disturbances.
Reduced Shelter Intake and Euthanasia
By preventing the birth of unwanted litters, TNR reduces the number of cats entering shelters—saving taxpayer dollars and reducing euthanasia.
Prevention of the “Vacuum Effect”
Attempts to remove or exterminate community cats are ineffective. When cats are removed, new unsterilized cats move in to access available resources, restarting the cycle. TNR prevents this by maintaining a stable, managed colony that deters new arrivals.
Natural Rodent Control
Managed cat colonies provide ongoing rodent control, benefiting neighborhoods and businesses.
Trap-Neuter-Return is widely recognized as the most humane and effective approach to managing free-roaming cat populations. By focusing on prevention rather than removal, TNR protects public health, reduces costs, improves animal welfare, and creates lasting community stability.
This bill supports a practical, compassionate solution—one that benefits communities, shelters, taxpayers, and the cats themselves. Please contact your legislators and ask them to SUPPORT SB 750/HB 912!
Thank you again for being an advocate for Maryland’s animals. Remember, Maryland Votes for Animals, Inc. can only succeed with the help of animal advocates like you. Please consider making a donation to Maryland Votes for Animals at voteanimals.org/donate now, so we can continue fighting for Maryland animals.
With compassion,
Maryland Votes for Animals, Inc.