What is Operation Catnip?

Operation Catnip provides services to free-roaming, unowned community cats in Alachua County and the surrounding areas. All cats must come to our clinics in approved, humane, live traps, regardless of temperament. No carriers are accepted, even if the cat is friendly.

Is catnip safe after surgery?

Surgery: Catnip seems to be able to slow down the central nervous system (CNS), causing sleepiness and other effects. Anesthesia and some other drugs used during and after surgery also slow down the CNS. There is a concern that using catnip along with these drugs might slow down the CNS too much.

Why are cats ears cut?

Ear-tipping is the universally accepted way to tell whether a feral cat has been neutered or spayed. This is typically performed as part of a TNR (trap-neuter-release) program. TNR programs save hundreds of cats each year and are one of the only ways to safely manage the feral cat population.

What to do with stray cats Houston?

If the cat is a stray, you may want to put up “found cat” notices in the neighborhood, search the missing pet databases, file a found pet report at CAP and other local shelters and facilitate the return of the cat to its family.

What is the name of the clinic that provides no cost pet care for approved Alachua County residents?

Operation Catnip of Gainesville is a nonprofit organization offering free spay/neuter and vaccines for unowned free-roaming community cats from Alachua County, Florida since 1998.

How long does it take for a cat to heal after being spayed?

14 days
Most spay/neuter skin incisions are fully healed within about 10–14 days, which coincides with the time that stitches or staples, if any, will need to be removed. Bathing and swimming. Don’t bathe your pet or let them swim until their stitches or staples have been removed and your veterinarian has cleared you to do so.

Will a feral cat come back after being neutered?

Once you have returned the cats, provide food and water. The cats may stay away from the area for a few days after being returned, but they will come back eventually.

Can a feral cat become a house pet?

Yes, that stray cat or alley cat can become your beloved house cat, but there are some caveats you should consider. Feral cats are wild and not used to people or domesticated. Stray cats and some alley cats have often had socialization and may have even been neutered and received health care.

Is cat ear-tipping cruel?

Ear-tipping is the humane, safe surgical removal of the top quarter-inch of the left or right ear. The procedure is performed by a licensed veterinarian, typically during the spay/neuter surgery and rarely requires aftercare.